Evaluation of the Efficacy of Trichoderma longibrachiatum in the Biocontrol of Fusarium Wilt in Tomato Plants in the Bani Walid Region, Libya

Abstract

This study aimed to isolate and identify Fusarium oxysporum, the causal agent of Fusarium wilt, from infected tomato plants in the Bani Walid region, Libya, and to evaluate the efficacy of Trichoderma longibrachiatum as a biocontrol agent against it. Laboratory dual-culture assays demonstrated a significant inhibitory effect of T. longibrachiatum on the radial growth of F. oxysporum. Under field conditions, the application of T. longibrachiatum significantly reduced the incidence of Fusarium wilt compared to the control, enhancing plant growth parameters. The results indicate that T. longibrachiatum is a promising biocontrol agent for the integrated management of Fusarium wilt in tomatoes.