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ENHANCING ABIOTIC STRESS TOLERANCE IN PLANTS: THE MULTIFACETED ROLE OF TRICHODERMA

Alvina Hanif,*, Maria Rabnawaz, Ammara Rehman, Abid Majeed, Muhammad Arshad

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Abstract:

Fungi, such as Trichoderma spp., have emerged as beneficial bio-control agents with remarkable capabilities to mitigate various abiotic stresses and combat plant pathogens in modern agriculture. This review highlights the interaction between Trichoderma and plants, focusing on its role in enhancing tolerance to abiotic stresses. Trichoderma establishes a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, secreting enzymes and antibiotics that break down pathogenic fungi and activate induced systemic resistance (ISR). Notably, Trichoderma treated plants exhibit increased resistance to drought, salinity, heat, and heavy metals due to altered hormone levels and enhanced antioxidant defense mechanisms. The production of bioactive compounds, including auxins, phytoalexins, and siderophores, by Trichoderma further contributes to enhanced plant growth and development. The colonization process and molecular signaling pathways involved in Trichoderma -plant interactions are also discussed. Understanding the potential of Trichoderma in promoting abiotic stress tolerance in plants will pave the way for sustainable agricultural practices and crop improvement. In conclusion, Trichoderma-plant interactions significantly enhance plant tolerance to abiotic stresses. The multifaceted mechanisms employed by Trichoderma lead to better growth, nutrient absorption, and stress resilience. Unraveling precise molecular and physiological mechanisms is crucial for devising effective strategies in stress-prone environments.

Keywords: Trichoderma, Biological control, Abiotic stresses, induced systemic resistance (ISR), Trichoderma -plant interactions.