Optimization of Fermentation Conditions for Production of Bioactive Metabolites and Enzymes from Trichoderma spp

Abstract

The development of sustainable agricultural inputs is essential to reduce the reliance on synthetic agrochemicals. Trichoderma species are widely recognized for their biocontrol potential and plant growth-promoting effects. In this study, Trichoderma asperellum and Trichoderma harzianum were cultivated under controlled conditions to produce extracellular enzymes and bioactive compounds. The resulting metabolites included compounds associated with antifungal activity, siderophore production, and phytohormone-like effects. For chitinase production, the highest activity reached 0.029 U mL–1 in medium 4 for T. asperellum, corresponding to a 70.0% increase during cultivation, whereas T. harzianum achieved 0.069 U mL–1 in medium 5, representing an 18.4% increase. Maximum protease activities were 22.04 U mL–1 in medium 3 for T. asperellum and 39.70 U mL–1 in medium 4 for T. harzianum, corresponding to increases of 58.3% and 42.1%, respectively. β–1,3-Glucanase production reached 0.088 U mL–1 in medium 2 for T. asperellum and 0.033 U mL–1 in medium 4 for T. harzianum, representing increases of 60.2% and 54.6%, respectively. The in vitro findings demonstrate a strategy for generating Trichoderma-based bioactive compounds with potential application as biocontrol agents and biofertilizers in sustainable agriculture.