Electrospun biohybrid materials for plant biocontrol containing chitosan and Trichoderma viride spores

Abstract

Nanofibrous mats containing chitosan and Trichoderma viride spores were successfully prepared by electrospinning. The presence of the fungal spores in the nanofibrous mats was determined by scanning electron microscopy. The viability of the incorporated spores was estimated by cultivating the obtained biohybrids and studying the fungus growth. The fungal spores incorporated into the chitosan-containing fibrous mats were viable; the T. viride developed and reproduced normally. The electrospun biohybrid materials inhibited the growth of diverse phytopathogenic strains (Fusarium, Alternaria) when placed at suitable growth conditions. Coating the plant sprouts with the biohybrids by direct electrospinning was easily done.