Exploiting antifungal metabolites of the fungus Purpureocillium lilacinum for effective control of Botrytis cinerea in chickpea plants

Abstract Endophytic fungi have garnered interest as biocontrol agents and plant growth promoters. In this study, we investigated the biocontrol potential of Purpureocillium lilacinum against Botrytis cinerea in chickpea seeds and plants. Molecular analysis confirmed the strain identity and its potential as a biocontrol agent was supported by inhibitory effects on B. cinerea growth and sporulation. In this sense, high-performance liquid chromatography tentatively identified three bioactive compounds in the P. lilacinum extract, suggesting mechanisms of antifungal activity. Notably, the extract mitigated the negative impact of B. cinerea on germination rates and seedling growth and demonstrated plant growth-promoting effects by enhancing germination rates and seedling growth of chickpea either in the absence or in the presence of the pathogen. Furthermore, the extract improved root length and number of roots in mature plants, indicating potential benefits for nutrient uptake and stress tolerance. Additionally, the extract exhibited antioxidant activity and enhanced nutrient mobilization, further supporting its role in plant health and productivity. Overall, this study highlights the multifaceted potential of the extract of P. lilacinum as a sustainable biocontrol agent and plant growth promoter.