Efficient Production of Beneficial Fungi for Broad Spectrum Control of Plant Diseases

Biological control technology is needed in commercial agriculture to control destructive agents. In some cases, chemical pesticides are not effective and in others chemical use can be reduced to avoid associated environmental and human health risks. TGT, Inc., a biotechnology company formed specifically to commercialize biocontrol systems, has Trichoderma-based systems in final development that are scheduled for market introduction in 1995 under contract with corporate partners. Production technology is adequate for limited product sales, but large scale production must be refined for these products to achieve the low cost and high quality needed for wide-scale use. The proposed research will provide the requisite production methodology for large-scale production of bioprotectants. Extensive research has demonstrated the feasibility of a two stage fermentation system for large scale production. A liquid fermentation (seed) stage followed by a solid matrix production stage is capable of producing high yields of quality product with shelf life and formulation handling characteristics critical for commercial success. Phase I research is needed to resolve fermentation parameters, refine low cost nutrient sources based on agricultural wastes, and finalize product recovery, stabilization, and formulation parameters. Phase II can then accomplish the engineering and mechanization for large scale production.