Genetic diversity and species pattern of Trichoderma and Hypocrea in Manipur using in-silico analysis

We investigated the occurrence and genetic diversity of Trichoderma and Hypocrea in Manipur which lies in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hot spot region.65 Trichoderma isolates were identified at species level by morphological as well as sequence based analysis of the internal transcribed spacer region 1 and 4. Altogether 22 different species of Trichoderma and Hypocrea were found, of which Trichoderma harzianum represent the dominant species.Phylogenetic analysis reveals a clear cut distinction of strains isolated from various collection sites which further hints the need for detail study of Trichoderma on molecular level. Background:The hypocreomycetidae genus Trichoderma was known for their rapid growth, capability of utilizing diverse substrates and resistance to noxious chemicals [1].They are often the predominant components of the mycoflora in soils of various ecosystems, such as agricultural fields, prairie, forest, salt marshes and deserts, in all climatic zones [2].Several Trichoderma species are significant biocontrol agents against fungal plant pathogens for nutrients, stimulators of plant health, or inducers of plant systemic resistance to pathogens [3].Trichoderma species produce a wide diversity of metabolites as well as the toxins and trichothecenes that display in vitro cytotoxicity [4].Methodology: Geography of sample sites Sampling was done from nine different districts of Manipur comprising of four different agro-climatic zones viz.i. Subtropical plain zone, ii.Sub-tropical hill zone, iii.