This research project is dedicated to investigating innovative strategies for reducing agrochemical usage and promoting sustainable agriculture. The primary focus of this study revolves around the development and evaluation of biostimulant products derived from Trichoderma fungus. To enhance the biostimulant properties of Trichoderma, gamma irradiation was employed to induce mutations in various Trichoderma species. Subsequently, three distinct biological fertilizers were formulated using five different Trichoderma species and their respective mutants. These bio-fertilizers underwent rigorous testing to evaluate their effects on the physiological characteristics of pinto bean plants. In total, seven experimental treatments were compared to a control group. Key parameters such as soluble protein content, chlorophyll levels, carotenoid concentrations, peroxidase, and polyphenol oxidase activities were measured and analyzed. Moreover, protein profiles and enzyme subunit activities were investigated to gain deeper insights into the mechanisms underlying the observed effects. The results of this study indicate that bio-priming seeds with a combination of Trichoderma spores resulted in the most significant improvements in chlorophyll content, carotenoid levels, and peroxidase activity. Additionally, mutants of Trichoderma species exhibited greater biostimulant effects compared to their wild-type counterparts. Notably, treatments involving kaolin-based granules demonstrated higher polyphenol oxidase activity. This research emphasizes the significant impact of Trichoderma-based treatments on the physiology of pinto bean plants. The induced mutations in Trichoderma species play a crucial role in enhancing efficacy.
