Title : Development of a Trichoderma-based biological control product for the management of Fusarium wilt of hot pepper
Abstract:
Hot pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a high-value horticultural crop widely cultivated in Ethiopia and other tropical regions. However, its production is seriously constrained by Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. capsici, a destructive soil-borne pathogen responsible for severe yield losses. Reliance on chemical fungicides has shown limited effectiveness and poses environmental and health risks, highlighting the need for sustainable disease management strategies. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a Trichoderma-based biological control product for the management of Fusarium wilt in hot pepper. Native Trichoderma isolates were collected, characterized, and screened for antagonistic activity against the pathogen under laboratory conditions. The most effective isolates were further formulated into a bio-product and tested under greenhouse and field conditions. Results demonstrated that selected Trichoderma strains significantly inhibited pathogen growth, reduced disease incidence and severity, and enhanced plant growth parameters compared to untreated controls. The formulated product showed good shelf-life, root colonization ability, and compatibility with common agronomic practices. The developed bio-product offers a promising, eco-friendly alternative to chemical fungicides and supports Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems. This work contributes to microbial biotechnology by providing a scalable and climate-resilient solution for sustainable hot pepper production, particularly for smallholder farming systems in developing countries.
