Biological control of downy mildew disease of maize caused by peronosclerospora sorghi using certain biocontrol agents alone or in combination [electronic resource].

Includes references.

In an attempt for biological control of maize downy mildew caused by Peronosclerospora sorghi under laboratory and field conditions, crude culture filtrates of some bio-agents and their mixtures were tested. Bio-control agents· used in the present investigation include Trichoderma viride, Trichoderma harzianum, Gliocladium virens and Bacillus subtilis. Under laboratory condition, all bioagents inhibited germination of oospores and conidia of P. Borghi.Dual cultures of T. viride and T. harzianum or B. subtilus were the most effective in inhibiting spore germination than the individual one .Under field condition, downy mildew infection percentages were different according to treatments i.e. spray, seed soaking and (spray + seed soaking). Seed soaking and spray treatment with the biocontrol agents and their mixtures was more effective than individual treatment of seed soaking or spray during the two successive seasons. Combination of T. Viride with T. hsrzianum or B. subtilis was the most effective in reducing downy mildew infection compared with the control. It gave 71.09 and 67.74% efficacy, respectively. On the other hand, Gliocladium virens was the least effective one in this respect ( 37.50% efficacy). The fungicide Apron (3.0 g/K seed) was the most effective one over all treatments (100% efficacy).

Summary in Arabic.

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