What is Trichoderma?
Trichoderma is a genus characterized by its unique densely clustered conidiophores & distinctly green color.
This genus contains some of the most prevalent fungi in the world, because essentially all soils contain Trichoderma.
Why does soil contain Trichoderma?
Trichoderma is extremely efficient at producing cellulase — an array of enzymes responsible for decomposing cellulose (and other polysaccharides). The cell walls of plants are made of cellulose. The cell walls must be decomposed, in order to turn fallen plant debris into soil. Therefore, Trichoderma is vital for returning nutrients to the soil. Additionally, Trichoderma acts as a natural bactericide / fungicide by fighting off harmful plant pathogens. It’s truly a miracle worker in our ecosystems!
Bad Reputation
Unfortunately, Trichoderma has acquired a poor reputation. Most mushroom cultivators despise Trichoderma, because it often contaminates substrates.
Inoculation conditions typically aren’t the culprit of Trichoderma contamination. Rather, the fungus was always present within the substrate. The sterilization / pasteurization process was simply insufficient at denaturing its spores. That’s why you see Trich in spawn & bulk, more-so than on agar plates.
But, don’t get too upset if you have a substrate contaminated with Trich…
Tricho-remediation
Your contaminated substrates can go to good use after all. On top of producing cellulase, Trichoderma produces “a wide variety of secondary metabolites, of which those most studied are peptaibols, polyketides, pyrones, terpenes and diketopiperazine-like compounds” (Biotechnology and Biology of Trichoderma, 2014). Meaning, Trichoderma has extensive decomposition / remediation abilities.
By all accounts, Trichoderma makes soil more fertile. So, don’t throw that Trichoderma in the trash! Instead, mix it into your garden or compost pile 🌱