Evaluating the survival and environmental fate of the biocontrol agent trichoderma atroviride SC1 in vineyards in northern Italy

Aims: To study the survival in the soil and the dispersion in the environment of Trichoderma atroviride SC1 after soil applications in a vineyard. Methods and Results: Trichoderma atroviride SC1 was introduced into soil in two consecutive years. The levels of T. atroviride populations at different spatial and temporal points following inoculation were assessed by counting the colony-forming units and by a specific quantitative real-time PCR. A high concentration of T. atroviride SC1 was still observed at the 18th week after inoculation. The vertical migration of the fungus to a soil depth of 0·4 m was already noticeable during the first week after inoculation. The fungus spread up to 4 m (horizontally) from the point of inoculation and its concentration decreased with the increasing distance (horizontal and vertical). It was able to colonize the rhizosphere and was also found on grapevine leaves. One year after soil inoculation, T. atroviride SC1 could still be recovered in the treated areas. Conclusions: Trichoderma atroviride SC1 survived and dispersed becoming an integrant part of the local microbial community under the tested conditions. Significance and Impact of the Study: The persistence and rapid spread of T. atroviride SC1 represent good qualities for its future use as biocontrol agent against soilborne pathogens. © 2009 The Society for Applied Microbiology.