Biofungicidal Potential of Pisonia Alba Extract against Trichoderma Fungus in Button Mushroom (Agaricus Bisporous) Cultivation

The worldwide cultivation of button mushrooms (Agaricus Bisporous) encounters various obstacles via fungal pathogens, particularly species of Trichoderma like Trichoderma harzianum and Trichoderma aggressivum. These pathogens are responsible for considerable decline in yield by inhibiting the formation of fruiting bodies. Although some Trichoderma strains are beneficial biocontrol agents but certain Trichoderma strains like Trichoderma aggressivum behaves as pathogen in mushroom farms responsible for green mould disease and economic detriment. So it is essential to develop a sustainable and eco-friendly biofungicide with a minimal environmental impact as the commonly used chemical fungicide leads to resistance emergence and environmental damage. This research work is about investigating the biofungicidal properties of Pisonia extract, leveraging their antimicrobial and antifungal properties. The main aim of this study is to assess antagonistic effects of Pisonia extract on Trichoderma fungus growth investigating the underlying molecular mechanism and evaluating its impact on mushroom yield. The results of this study assist in creation of more sustainable, eco-friendly approach for combating fungal pathogens in mushroom cultivation.