Trichoderma: a multipurpose, plant-beneficial microorganism for eco-sustainable agriculture

Trichoderma is a cosmopolitan and opportunistic ascomycete fungal
genus including species that are of interest to agriculture as direct
biological control agents of phytopathogens. Trichoderma utilizes
direct antagonism and competition, particularly in the rhizosphere,
where it modulates the composition of and interactions with other
microorganisms. In its colonization of plants, on the roots or as an
endophyte, Trichoderma has evolved the capacity to communicate with
the plant and produce numerous multifaceted benefits to its host. The
intricacy of this plant–microorganism association has stimulated a
marked interest in research on Trichoderma, ranging from its capacity
as a plant growth promoter to its ability to prime local and systemic
defence responses against biotic and abiotic stresses and to activate
transcriptional memory affecting plant responses to future stresses.
This Review discusses the ecophysiology and diversity of Trichoderma
and the complexity of its relationships in the agroecosystem, highlighting
its potential as a direct and indirect biological control agent,
biostimulant and biofertilizer, which are useful multipurpose properties
for agricultural applications. We also highlight how the present
legislative framework might accommodate the demonstrated evidence
of Trichoderma proficiency as a plant-beneficial microorganism
contributing towards eco-sustainable agriculture.