Effect of Biocontrol Agent Consortia for Ecofriendly Management of Stem and Root Rot in Olitorius Jute caused byMacrophomina phaseolina

Abstract

Stem and root rot in jute caused by Macrophomina phaseolina hold a great problem in managing the diseases since the pathogen is seed, soil and air borne. Biological control of the diseases can be successfully utilized especially within the framework of integrated disease management system. Three biocontrol agents namely Trichoderma viride, Aspergillus niger (AN 27) and Pseudomonas fluorescens were evaluated for their growth promoting ability in jute under in vitro condition. Significantly higher vigour index was observed when T. viride and P. fluorescens were applied in consortia, whereas, A. niger had low plant growth promoting ability irrespective of consortia used. Field experiment was conducted in two consecutive years to assess the integrated management of M. phaseolina induced stem and root rot by application of three bioagents through seed treatment or soil application either single or in consortium with seed treating fungicide carbendazim. The biocontrol agents applied in consortium through seed treatment and soil application was significantly superior management option to reduce stem and root rot although at par with the treatment where the bioagents were applied through seed treatment and soil application integrated with fungicide seed treatment. Fibre yield increased significantly when bioagents particularly T. viride and P. fluorescens applied individually or in consortia integrated with carbendazim resulting 60–83% increase in fibre yield in comparison to control.