Page 19 - THEi Student Applied Research Presentations 2024

INHIBITING EFFECTS OF BACILLUS SUBTILIS
AND TRICHODERMA HARZIANUM ON BROWN

ROOT ROT DISEASE CAUSED BY PHELLINUS

NOXIUS

ABSTRACT Poster

RESEARCH BACKGROUND
The research focuses on the effectiveness of biocide against plant pathogens. Brown
Root Rot, caused by the wood-rotting fungus Phellinus noxius, severely damages trees
by clogging water and nutrient transport in roots and trunk. This leads to root death
and instability, causing permanent and fatal damage to plant hosts, which may threaten CHEUNG OI LAM
people’s safety.

METHODOLOGY BSc (Hons) in Horticulture,
Samples of P. noxius, T. harzianum, and B. subtilis were collected and isolated. Dual Arboriculture and Landscape
culture experiments were conducted to observe the interaction and competition between Management
the bioagents and the pathogen. A total of 42 samples were prepared, consisting of Department of Construction,
2 bioagents and 3 different quantities and combinations of bioagents, spread across Environment and Engineering
7 dishes. Each variation was replicated 6 times, and there was also a control group.
The growth inhibition of the pathogen was observed and measured as the percentage OBJECTIVES
inhibition of radial growth (PIRG).

FINDINGS The study aims to examine the inhibiting
effects of Bacillus species and Trichoderma
Based on the calculation of PIRG, the expected order of inhibiting effects is as follows: species on Brown root rot disease caused
the combination of T. harzianum and B. subtilis has the highest inhibitory effect, by P. noxius. The hypothesis is that there
followed by the combination of T. harzianum and T. harzianum, the combination of B.
subtilis and B. subtilis, T. harzianum alone, B. subtilis alone, and finally, the control is a negative relation the growth rate of
group. the biological agents and the growth of the
pathogen.
ABOUT THE INVESTIGATOR

I have a keen interest in plant pathology and aspire to become an arborist specializing
in tree care. My passion lies in understanding and finding solutions for plant diseases,
particularly those affecting trees. I am dedicated to contributing to plant pathology
and positively impacting the health and well-being of trees. I am grateful to have Miss
LEUNG Zoen Wing, Gabriella as my FYP supervisor, as her guidance and support have
been invaluable.

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