Bioestimulation of Trichoderma virens and Bacillus subtilis in rice crops in Argentina

Rice (Oryza sativa) is the main cereal crop in the province of Corrientes, Argentina. Biotic constraints are a constant threat to rice production. Studies conducted with microorganisms as alternatives for controlling economically important diseases have demonstrated their biostimulant action in plants. The use of microorganisms was evaluated as an alternative and sustainable measure to increase crop yields through biostimulation as a complement to nutrition plans. During 2022 and 2023, in two locations in the province of Corrientes (Argentina), the individual and combined effect of Trichoderma virens and Bacillus subtilis on rice yield was measured. The design was a completely randomized block design with nine treatments and three replicates per treatment. A control without application, one commercial treatment, and seven treatments with both individual and combined applications of the organisms were included. The grain yield obtained in each treatment was measured. The results indicated that the highest yields in both locations were obtained for the treatments with microorganisms. In the Itá Ibaté location, three of the treatments with biological agents exceeded the conventional treatment by 700 kg/ha, and in the Perrugorria location, conventional treatment was exceeded by 1870 kg/ha. These results demonstrate the biostimulant effect of microorganisms on the crop and suggest the need to investigate the metabolic pathways that benefit from the interaction between both organisms.