what is trichoderma

Trichoderma is a genus of fungi that is present in nearly all soils and other diverse habitats. They are the most prevalent culturable fungi in soil and can be characterized as opportunistic avirulent plant symbionts. Trichoderma spp. are free-living fungi that are common in soil and root ecosystems. They are well known for their ability to produce a wide range of antibiotic substances and for inducing both localized and systemic resistance in a range of plants to a variety of plant pathogens. Trichoderma can also enhance root growth and development, and can therefore improve crop productivity. Trichoderma is mainly used to control soil-borne diseases in various plants and some leaf and spike diseases. There are more than 370 Trichoderma spp. including T. harzianum, T. viride, T. asperellum, T. hamatum, T. atroviride, T. koningii, T. longibrachiatum, and T. aureoviride.