Evaluación del impacto de trichoderma y extracto botánico en el control de sigatoka en musa spp.

Abstract

Black Sigatoka, caused by the fungus Mycosphaerella fijiensis, is one of the main diseases affecting banana crops (Musa spp.), with significant implications for global production and quality. Due to growing concerns about environmental sustainability and public health, the need has arisen to explore alternatives to the intensive use of chemical pesticides. In this context, the present study focused on evaluating the efficacy of Trichoderma spp. and botanical extracts as potentially sustainable strategies for controlling Black Sigatoka. The experiment was conducted at the Santa Inés Farm, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Technical University of Machala, Ecuador. A completely randomized experimental design was used, with six treatments and a control, each with four replicates and two sampling units per replicate. The treatments included combinations of Trichoderma and botanical extract applied weekly for four weeks. The preparation of Trichoderma was carried out under controlled conditions, while the botanical extracts were obtained through a hydroalcoholic mixture of cinnamon. The results showed that the combination of Propiconazole 10ml + Mancozeb 75 g (Treatment T1) and Propiconazole 10ml + Mancozeb 75 g + Trichoderma 50ml (Treatment T2) demonstrated a significant reduction in the percentage of affected leaf area compared to the control and other treatments. Treatment T3, which combined Propiconazole 10ml + Botanical Extract 50ml + Trichoderma 50ml, also showed notable improvements, although with less efficacy than Treatments T1 and T2. Statistical analysis through ANOVA and Duncan's tests confirmed that the treatment combinations achieved a significant reduction in disease severity. Treatments T1 and T2 were the most effective, revealing that these combinations offer a viable alternative to conventional methods. In conclusion, the results support the use of Trichoderma and botanical extract combinations for managing Black Sigatoka, and it is therefore recommended to apply these combinations (T1 and T2) to improve disease control and reduce dependence on chemical pesticides. Additionally, further studies are suggested to optimize doses and application frequencies, as well as to explore other sustainable practices in the integrated management of diseases in banana crops.