Antagonistic activity of rhizosphere fungi isolated from Vitis vinifera against Fusarium oxysporum in Probolinggo, East Java Available to Purchase

The extensive use of synthetic fungicides in controlling plant disease generates detrimental impacts on the environment and human health. In response to this problem, an alternative method was developed, known as biological control using antagonistic microorganisms. The plant rhizosphere is rich in microbes, one of which is a group of fungi. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the biocontrol potential of rhizosphere fungi against Fusarium oxysporum, a phytopathogen that causes anthracnose disease. A total of twenty-seven rhizosphere fungi were isolated from different tissue parts of grape (Vitis vinifera). Results demonstrated that most rhizosphere fungal isolates showed some inhibitory action over the growth of F. oxysporum during dual culture growth. Rhizosphere isolate G11 showed the highest antagonistic activity against F. oxysporum with 86.59% percentage inhibition radial growth (PIRG). In conclusion, rhizosphere fungi isolated from V. vinifera indicate the potential as biocontrol agents. It is hoped that the finding of isolated rhizosphere fungi in this study with antagonistic activity against F. oxysporum pathogen may be used in biocontrol programs for plant disease in the region.