Exploration of antimicrobial and antifungal compounds in Clonostachys rosea using gas chromatography- mass spectrometry

The GC-MS analysis of secondary metabolites of Clonosatchys rosea (C. rosea) reveals the presence of antimicrobial and antifungal compounds which is essential attire for any biocontrol agent to be commercialized. Experimental evidence showing importance of carbon and nitrogen sources on growth and sporulation of C. rosea (TNAU CR 01) has been undertaken. Among eleven carbon sources tested, dextrose has been found to be effective followed by sucrose in improving the mycelial growth and sporulation of the fungus. Casein has been identified as a significant nitrogen source responsible for the improvement in fungal growth and sporulation followed by potassium nitrate, phenylalanine and sodium nitrite. When considering the future commercialization of novel biocontrol agents like C. rosea, the current study will be useful in understanding the importance and choice of nutritional sources required for their growth and development of biocontrol agents and chemical analysis of secondary metabolites will be helpful in understanding their mode of action against phytopathogens.