Trichoderma asperellum CCT - 7830 como bioinsumo na atividade bioquímica do solo e para a produção e nutrição do sorgo

Abstract

The large-scale agricultural production system predominantly relies on mechanization and synthetic or mining-derived inputs to adjust soil fertility and ensure plant health. These practices have the potential to degrade soil and water functions. Additionally, there are financial and energy costs associated with obtaining and applying traditional management practices. Therefore, the search for sustainable alternatives aims to improve production efficiency, reduce external dependence, and minimize environmental impacts. In this context, the use of beneficial microorganisms, such as fungi of the genus Trichoderma, stands out, as they mineralize nutrients, control diseases and pests, and promote plant growth. This study evaluated the potential of Trichoderma asperellum CCT-7830 as a bio input to stimulate biological activity, soil microbial biomass, soil fertility, plant nutrition, growth, and sorghum yield in the field. The experiment was conducted in Uberlândia using a randomized block design in a 2 × 2 factorial scheme: two treatments [control (CT) and application of T. asperellum (TR)] in two soil types [a typical Dystrophic Red Latosol, one with medium texture (MED) and another with clayey texture (ARG)]. The microbial isolate was applied in the sowing row before and after sowing. Soil biochemical activity was assessed by measuring basal respiration (RBS), the metabolic quotient (qCO₂), the soil microbial biomass carbon (CBMS) and the activities of arylsulfatase, β-glucosidase, phosphatase, and fluorescein diacetate (FDA) hydrolysis. Statistical analyses included tests for normality, homogeneity, and additivity. For data that followed a normal distribution, we performed Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the Scott-Knott mean test (p < 0.05). For non-parametric data, the Kruskal-Wallis test was used (p < 0.05). Applying T. asperellum isolate increased FDA hydrolysis and phosphatase activity in both soils, as well as qCO₂ in medium-textured soil and arylsulfatase and CBMS activity in clayey soil. The fungal treatment increased potential acidity (H+Al) in medium-textured soil. The microbial isolate reduced β-glucosidase activity and RBS in clayey soil. However, the treatments did not significantly affect sorghum dry mass and yield. Trichoderma asperellum CCT-7830 demonstrated potential as a bio input by enhancing enzymatic activity in both clayey and medium-textured soils, indicating that its use may be an effective strategy for more sustainable agricultural practices.