Application of Biofertilizing Agents and Entomopathogenic Fungi in Lowland Rice

Abstract

Protection of rice plant health that is environmentally friendly and free of toxic synthetic chemicals requires the availability of effective biological agents in biocontrol and biofertilization. This research aims to determine the effect of Trichoderma asperellum and entomopathogenic fungi on growth, pest attack index, and lowland rice production in stem borer endemic land. The experiment was arranged in a split plot design with the main plot being Trichoderma applications consisting of without and with Trichoderma asperellum, while the sub plots were applications of entomopathogenic fungi consisting of Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae, and without entomopathogens. The experiment was repeated four times. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and HSD test at the 5% level. The interaction of these two factors has a significant effect on plant response. Combination application of Trichoderma esperellum with Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae increased the maximum number of tillers by 39.53% and 46.51% respectively, reduced the intensity of the rice white stemborer attack symptoms by 39.53-46.51%, increased the maximum number of panicles by 15.76% and 13.34%, grain weight per hill 21.66% and 17.33%. Trichoderma asperellum and entomopathogens can be used to protect rice plants in areas endemic to stem borer pests.