Antagonistic Potential of Native Trichoderma spp. against Phytophthora cinnamomi in the Control of Holm Oak Decline in Dehesas Ecosystems

Phytophthora root rot caused by the pathogen cinnamomi is one of main causes oak mortality in Mediterranean open woodlands, so-called dehesas. Disease control challenging; therefore, new alternative measures are needed. This study focused on searching for natural biocontrol agents with aim developing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies dehesas as a part adaptive forest (AFM) strategies. Native Trichoderma spp. were selectively isolated from healthy trees growing damaged areas P. rot, using Rose Bengal selective medium. All (n = 95) isolates evaluated against mycelial growth inhibition (MGI). Forty-three presented an MGI higher than 60%. Twenty-one belonging to highest categories molecularly identified T. gamsii, viridarium, hamatum, olivascens, virens, paraviridescens, linzhiense, hirsutum, samuelsii, and harzianum. Amongst strains, 10 outstanding tested mycoparasitism, showing values scale ranging 3 4. As far we know, this first report referring antagonistic activity native over strains cohabiting same infected The analysis tree health status suggest that presence might diminish or even avoid development cinnamomi, protecting worst effects rot.