About this Research Topic
Trichoderma based biological formulations are widely distributed in 219 countries worldwide. Trichoderma spp. is a plant growth-promoting fungi utilized as a biological control agent to decompose waste/organic materials and detoxify contaminated areas. In agriculture, these formulations are used for seed treatment, soil amendments, and foliar sprays. Despite the predominant focus on their benefits (90% of research to date), it's crucial to consider the potential risks associated with their use. Trichoderma spp. can be harmful to specific plants, induce diseases in humans, and produce mycotoxins, which may contaminate food supplies.
Various research has noted several unintended outcomes of Trichoderma spp. regarding soil microbial populations. Trichoderma spp. produce enzymes that disintegrate cell walls, such cellulase, xylanase, and glucanases, which disrupt the functioning of microbial cells. This can reduce nutrition absorption in the rhizosphere. They also pose a risk of mycotoxin contamination, presenting significant hazards to crops and humans. To maintain soil health and regulate ecological balance, it is essential to manage soil appropriately, prevent deterioration, and implement restoration practices. Further investigation is necessary to understand the detrimental impacts of Trichoderma spp. enzymes and secondary metabolites on natural habitats, crops, animals, and humans.
This Research Topic seeks to explore alternative research solutions that enhance soil ecology dominance and balance using novel Trichoderma spp., while ensuring the efficacy and safety of these fungi on crops, microbial ecosystems, humans, and animals. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:
• Mechanisms of interactions among plants, soil rhizosphere, and Trichoderma spp.
• Coevolutionary dynamics and their ecological implications for humans and the environment.
• Adverse effects and mitigation strategies for Trichoderma spp.
We welcome original research articles, reviews, and methodological papers that provide new insights into Trichoderma spp. and contribute to the sustainable management of this predominant species.
Various research has noted several unintended outcomes of Trichoderma spp. regarding soil microbial populations. Trichoderma spp. produce enzymes that disintegrate cell walls, such cellulase, xylanase, and glucanases, which disrupt the functioning of microbial cells. This can reduce nutrition absorption in the rhizosphere. They also pose a risk of mycotoxin contamination, presenting significant hazards to crops and humans. To maintain soil health and regulate ecological balance, it is essential to manage soil appropriately, prevent deterioration, and implement restoration practices. Further investigation is necessary to understand the detrimental impacts of Trichoderma spp. enzymes and secondary metabolites on natural habitats, crops, animals, and humans.
This Research Topic seeks to explore alternative research solutions that enhance soil ecology dominance and balance using novel Trichoderma spp., while ensuring the efficacy and safety of these fungi on crops, microbial ecosystems, humans, and animals. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:
• Mechanisms of interactions among plants, soil rhizosphere, and Trichoderma spp.
• Coevolutionary dynamics and their ecological implications for humans and the environment.
• Adverse effects and mitigation strategies for Trichoderma spp.
We welcome original research articles, reviews, and methodological papers that provide new insights into Trichoderma spp. and contribute to the sustainable management of this predominant species.
Keywords: soil ecology, Trichoderma spp., mycotoxin, epiphyte, endophyte, rhizospheric colonization, ecological balance, biotic stress, ecological risk
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
