Integrated Phytoprotection of Rice Using Biocontrol Agents and Botanical Extracts Against Magnaporthe oryzae

Abstract

Rice blast caused by Magnaporthe oryzae leads to significant yield losses. This study evaluates the combined use of Trichoderma harzianum and neem seed extract for integrated phytoprotection. Treatments were applied in vitro and in rice paddy field trials to assess disease incidence, pathogen suppression, and yield outcomes.
The combination reduced disease severity by 71% and improved grain yield by 22%. Biochemical assays indicated increased activity of defense-related enzymes such as peroxidase and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase. This integrated approach offers a promising alternative to chemical fungicides in smallholder rice systems.