ABSTRACT
The global movement toward sustainable agriculture has underscored the importance of biological control agents (BCAs) during also after the national project, Chemical Use Reduction Policy (CURP) in Iran, for the past 30 years. A few preparations for controlling plant diseases have been introduced to Iran’s BCAs market. The primary preparation was formulated based on Trichoderma species, the most important and widely studied fungal biocontrol agents in sustainable agriculture. The preparation, Tricodermin-B®, was produced based on the Trichoderma species isolated via the supported research activities. The conducted experiments under different conditions showed variable results, so the primary registrations were not extended; however, step by step, new preparations were produced and/or introduced to the market. The commercial products (both domestic and imported) are still introduced in terms of formulation types, target disease agents, their overall effectiveness, and their historical development; While the market is expanding and diversified, challenges remain, including product stability, farmer training, and regulatory hurdles. Despite differences in registration protocols, there is significant potential for the development of BCAs in the different periods of the last 50 years. These potentials warrant further exploration and investment through regional coordination, facilitated by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) and supported by scientific societies and market providers.
Keywords: Microbial control, biological control, Iran, Trichoderma, sustainable agriculture
INTRODUCTION
Microbial biocontrol agents (MBCAs) including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and nematodes are emerging as key players toward sustainable approaches via biological control agents (BCAs). These screened organisms offer improved safety and biodegradability, align well with integrated pest management (IPM) frameworks, and respond to consumer demand for organic production (Rezapanah, 2024 and Rezapanah et al., 2022).
This study presents Trichoderma-based preparations via an analysis of BCAs used in agriculture in Iran (Rezapanah et al., 2025b and 2023), focusing on microbial and biocontrol agents for controlling plant diseases. With rising global demand for eco-friendly alternatives, understanding the distribution and application of microbial preparations like Trichoderma-based preparations are crucial. This paper integrates product labels, registration data, and market records to provide a structured insight into the current landscape.
This review focuses on Trichoderma spp. fungi known for both disease suppression and promoting plant growth via analyzing research and market data recently. This review also evaluates Iran’s current landscape in microbial biocontrol, including historical usage, available products, efficacy, and key challenges.
Trichoderma species are among the most important and widely studied fungal biocontrol agents in sustainable agriculture. These soil-borne fungi, belonging to the Hypocreaceae family, exhibit a wide range of antagonistic activity against numerous plant pathogenic fungi, including Fusarium, Botrytis, and Phytophthora (Dutta et al., 2023). Their effectiveness in biological control is attributed to multiple mechanisms, including mycoparasitism where the fungi Trichoderma aggressively targets and degrades the hyphae of pathogenic fungi competitors based on their threat to an ecological niche and nutrients. Additionally, they will secrete hydrolytic enzymes, such as chitinases and β-1,3-glucanases, that degrade cell walls of the pathogens (Sood et al., 2020; Panicker and Sayyed, 2022). Trichoderma also generates multiple secondary metabolites, including some antibiotics, peptaibols and terpenes that have strong antifungal and antimicrobial activity (Nakkeeran et al., 2021). Moreover, they can exert indirect antagonism by inducing systemic resistance in plants through activation of defense signaling pathways, thereby enhancing the host's innate immunity against numerous pathogens (Poveda et al., 2020; Mishu et al., 2025). This induced systemic resistance (ISR) enhances the capacity of plants to tolerate biotic stresses, confirming that Trichoderma is a not only a biological control agent, but can also have significant potential as a biostimulant (Abd-Elsalam et al., 2025). The application of Trichoderma as a biological control agent not only offers many of the same benefits as a conventional chemical fungicide, such as being environmentally friendly, reducing chemical residues in an ecosystem, and stimulating soil biodiversity and health (Shailiet et al., 2025; Fenta and Mekonnen, 2024) but can sometimes be a part of a complimentary and/or integrated approach to the management of plant diseases. As a result, Trichoderma-based preparations are now part of integrated pest management (IPM) protocols and organic farming systems worldwide (Thangaraj et al., 2025). Numerous studies have shown that Trichoderma benefits crop yield, crop quality, and ecosystem sustainability (Kowsari and Eslahi, N., 2024; Sun et al., 2025; Dinh et al., 2024). With increased interest in environmentally sustainable farming and the challenges posed by pathogen resistance to chemical control, many studies focus on gene variation, functional characterization, and the optimization of field applications of Trichoderma species. Progress in the development of formulation technology and mass production of Trichoderma is essential to improving biological controls in agriculture to ensure effectiveness and economic benefit. In the end, the tactical applications of Trichoderma fungi can provide one method in achieving food security and sustainability in agriculture.
Trichoderma based preparations in Iran market:
The BCA preparations are based on the fungi used for fungal disease management and promoting root health products like Trichomix-HV® and Trico-Plus® target Fusarium, Pythium, and Rhizoctonia. The application improves plant vigor and drought/salt tolerance.
The information gathered on microbial control agents is consolidated as bellow list,[FFTC DFne1] providing a quick reference guide to commercial products, formulations, and primary targets in the Iranian context.
Trichomix-HV®
It is a preparation based on Trichoderma harzianum and Trichoderma viride for controlling diseases of Soil/Fruit Trees.
Trianum-G®
It is a preparation of Koppert Biological Systems based on Trichoderma harzianum T-22 for preventing and controlling soil-borne diseases and also promoting plant growth and uniformity. The granular formulation designed for nurseries and orchards with long-term soil stability. It can be easily mixed with or spread over the growing substrate or applied at sowing or planting. The beneficial fungus Trichoderma harzianum T-22 protects plants against a range of soil-borne root diseases through several different modes of action. Trichoderma harzianum controls the following plant diseases: Damping-off (Pythium spp.), Rhizoctonia root rot (Rhizoctonia spp.), Fusarium wilt (Fusarium spp.), Sclerotinia rot (Sclerotinia spp.) and Microdochium spp. There are two records of registration on diseases of cantaloupe and greenhouse tomato in Plant Protection Organization of Iran (PPO) on December 12, 2018.
Trianum-P®
It is another globally recognized biological control product of Koppert Biological Systems based on Trichoderma harzianum T-22. The producer believes that it is highly effective against root‑rot pathogens such as Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, Pythium, and Phytophthora through rapid rhizosphere colonization and strong enzymatic activity.
The granules can be easily dispersed in water and applied via drenching, drip irrigation, or spraying. There are two records of registration on diseases of greenhouse tomato and cucumber in Plant Protection Organization of Iran on April 28, 2012.The similar products such as Trichozit® and Trichozit‑G® were produced by Zist‑Fanavaran Pishia. They were suggested for greenhouse and open‑field crops for Improving root health and suppresses soil‑borne pathogens. The granular version used in orchards and transplant holes. Bio‑Derma® preparations were produced by Tabiat‑Gara based on T. harzianum and T. viride against Fusarium and Rhizoctonia in vegetables. Bio‑Derma Mix® and Tricho‑Shield® are mixed-species formulations to cover a broader disease spectrum. Tricho‑Mix® is another mixed-species formulation based on T. harzianum, T. viride and T. asperellum that was suggested for seed treatment and soil inoculation, also indicated as suitable for infected soils as well as Super‑Trichoderma® based on high‑density T. harzianum for heavily infested soils. Bio‑Tricho® was produced based on T. harzianum were suggested in cucurbits and greenhouse crops for stem and root rot control. Rishe‑Yar Trichoderma® and P‑Tricho® were produced based on T. asperellum a robust strain suitable for saline or alkaline soils and in citrus and pistachio orchards. Sabz‑Tricho® was produced based on T. harzianum known for high stability and consistency; used in intensive greenhouse systems. Tricho‑Rhiz® was produced based on T. viride enhances root elongation and improves transplant survival. Agri‑Tricho® was produced based on T. harzianum by Kavosh Kimia designed for fertigation systems in large industrial farms. The record of registration in PPO not found for the above mentioned products.
Bioroot/Chelfer®
It is a soil amendment product imported via a Greek company of Nature SA (since 1990) as fertilizers for plant nutrition and stimulation. It is registered as fertilizer number 15094 on October 2, 2019, but it is based on Trichoderma spp.
Trichorun®
It is another soil amendment product based on Trichoderma spp. produced by Iranian company, Biorun as fertilizer or plant nutrition and growth stimulation. It is only registered as fertilizer too.
It should be discussed why the MBCAs producers preferred such this registration approach (Rezapanah et al., 2023 and Barzali and Rezapanah, 2022)? Despite differences in registration protocols, there is significant potential for the development of BCAs in the different periods of the last 50 years. The primary preparation, Tricodermin-B®, was produced based on the Trichoderma species isolated via the supported research activities of CURP that no need to registration. Its conducted field experiments under different conditions showed variable results and its temporary registrations were not extended; Step by step, new preparations were successfully produced and/or introduced to the market, annual list of Plant Protection Organization and even only as registered fertilizer. Such variation in registration approaches (since no need to registration till registration as pesticide) should be considered and discussed. These potentials warrant further exploration and investment through regional coordination, facilitated by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) and supported by scientific societies, market providers and regional agreements for boosting BCAs nationally and/or regionally (Rezapanah et al., 2023).
DISCUSSION
The significance of bio-organic volatile compounds (VOCs) produced by Trichoderma spp. has also been documented for their potential role in plant growth promotion and disease suppression on plant pathogens. Joo and Hussein (2022) and Wang et al. (2022) have both studied the VOC emission profiles and demonstrated their antifungal activity against numerous plant pathogenic fungi. It can be one of the reasons for the registration of Trichoderma-based products as fertilizer in some countries, especially when it is a cheaper and faster process.
Iran’s microbial biocontrol sector is growing but faces hurdles. While formulation advances and locally adapted strains show promise, field performance still varies. Many producers are still dealing with registration processes in the Plant Protection Organization (PPO) viarelated institutes, while the registration of microbial biofertilizers (Rezapanah et al., 2023) is cheaper and faster.
Financial incentives, such as subsidies and/or support during CURP, could help reduce the perceived risk for knowledge-based producers and, at least, for small-scale farmers or value chains. Future strategies should be considered, such as regional or national boosted organic market and the integrated use of BCAs. Synergies among biocontrol agents could improve consistency and outcomes.
However, transitioning to biocontrol and organic farming is not straightforward (Rezapanah 2011 and 2024). It involves identifying potent strains, ensuring mass production, developing stable formulations, and critically educating farmers. Adoption remains limited, with skepticism surrounding product efficacy, shelf life, and application techniques. This underscores the need for a comprehensive, evidence-based review of microbial control in Iran.
The Trichoderma-based products demonstrate the highest prevalence among microbial and other MBCAs for controlling plant diseases in Iran, driven by their adaptability, proven biocontrol effects against soil borne pathogens, and relatively more straightforward formulation. Bacillus-based products are also widely adopted due to their multifunctional benefits, including plant growth promotion, biocontrol activity, and industrial scalability. It seems that yeast-based or botanical extract-based products have potential areas for market development, especially under greenhouse conditions or for niche crops. The study indicates a market inclination toward fungi-based solutions, with bacterial biofertilizers gaining significant ground in recent years.
CONCLUSION
Biological control agents have served for the control of major insect pests and diseases, while Trichoderma continues to gain recognition for its contributions to soil health. Today, Iranian growers benefit from an expanding toolkit of advanced biocontrol solutions to address the challenges posed by emerging pests and diseases. Domestic production since CRUP (Rezapanah 2011), based on several decades of localized R&D by Iranian universities and institutes, is an ideal foundation for future development. While regulatory mechanisms are still under development, they must become an integrated core of the national policy on crop protection (Rezapanah et al., 2023). To unlock the full potential of microbial biocontrol and attain the ambitious goal of reducing chemical use, certain high-priority areas should receive concerted attention immediately.
Firstly, research must re-emphasize effort on formulation development. Transferring effective strains into stable, efficient, and user-friendly formulations is the most critical step for bridging the gap between lab effectiveness and predictable performance under farm conditions. Poor formulations can negate even the most effective microbial strains.
Secondly, the technology gap between the researcher in the lab and the user on the farm must be addressed directly. This requires a multi-dimensional educational program—with hands-on workshops, easy-to-read product labeling, and prompt technical back-up—to give farmers the skills and confidence to use these living products efficiently. They must understand that biocontrol is not simply a substitution, but a different way of managing crops.
Thirdly, economic and policy instruments must be brought into play to induce adoption. Subsidies streamlined registration of locally proven-effective products, and enforcement of effective quality controls can create an economically viable and reputable market.
Finally, the research model must also transform. Future efforts must focus on synergistic sets of MBCAs, their use as part of organic farming or the IPM strategies, and their capacity to enhance plant resilience against the mounting abiotic stresses, such as drought and salinity, that define Iranian agriculture. Opportunities to combine the pest-killing capabilities of Beauvaria bassiana with the growth-stimulation and stress-reduction effects of Trichoderma are just one example of the powerful synergies (Sarmast et al., 2018) still waiting to be explored.
Iran stands at a promising juncture in the development of microbial biocontrol and effective MBCAs as well as Trichoderma based preparations. The foundations for a dynamic and self-sufficient sector are already in place. While challenges related to formulation, training, and scaling remain significant, they are not beyond reach. By strengthening collaboration among researchers, industry stakeholders, policymakers, and farmers, the country can move toward a model that is not only efficient and profitable but also resilient and sustainable in the long term. Achieving this transformation would demonstrate the practical value of nature-based solutions in meeting essential agricultural needs.
This integrated assessment bridges scientific categorization with regulatory and market data. The trends highlight the strong market position of Trichoderma and Bacillus products, while underlining the need for diversification and support for alternative biological control solutions. Policymakers, researchers, and private stakeholders can leverage structured insights for development planning and investment decisions not only in Iran market, but also regionally (Rezapanah 2018 and 2024) and beyond via a synchronized organic market (Rezapanah et al., 2025a).
REFERENCES
Abd-Elsalam, K.A., Abdelkhalek, T.E., Hassan, R.K., Arafa, R.A. and Almoammar, H., 2025. Trichoderma and Plant Immunity: A Synergistic Approach to Biotic Stress. In Elicitors for Sustainable Crop Production: Overcoming Biotic Stress Challenges in Plants (pp. 393-421). Singapore: Springer Nature Singapore.
Barzali, M. and Rezapanah, M. 2022. Legal bases and structures of the organic system in I. R. Iran: Food and agricultural products. Academic Publication of Rashdin Tehran. 294 pages.
Dinh, V.P., Tran-Vu, H.A., Tran, T., Duong, B.N., Dang-Thi, N.M., Phan-Van, H.L., Tran, T.K., Huynh, V.H., Nguyen, T.P.T. and Nguyen, T.Q., 2024. Improving Soil Quality and Crop Yields Using Enhancing Sustainable Rice Straw Management Through Microbial Enzyme Treatments. Environmental Health Insights, 18, p.11786302241283001.
Dutta, P., Mahanta, M., Singh, S.B., Thakuria, D., Deb, L., Kumari, A., Upamanya, G.K., Boruah, S., Dey, U., Mishra, A.K. and Vanlaltani, L., 2023. Molecular interaction between plants and Trichoderma species against soil-borne plant pathogens. Frontiers in plant science, 14, p.1145715.
Fenta, L. and Mekonnen, H., 2024. Microbial biofungicides as a substitute for chemical fungicides in the control of phytopathogens: Current perspectives and research directions. Scientifica, 2024(1), p.5322696.
Joo, J.H. and Hussein, K.A., 2022. Biological control and plant growth promotion properties of volatile organic compound-producing antagonistic Trichoderma spp. Frontiers in plant science, 13, p.897668.
Kowsari, M. and Eslahi, N., 2024. Trichoderma as ecofriendly tools for sustainable agriculture management: Improving plant health, crop productivity and soil fertility. In Microbial Technology for Agro-Ecosystems (pp. 97-114). Academic Press.
Mishu, N.J., Hasan, M.R., Islam, S.M.N., Nayeema, J. and Hossain, M.M., 2025. Additive effects of Trichoderma isolates for enhancing growth, suppressing southern blight and modulating plant defense enzymes in tomato. Plos one, 20(7), p.e0329368.
Nakkeeran, S., Rajamanickam, S., Karthikeyan, M., Mahendra, K., Renukadevi, P. and Johnson, I., 2021. Antimicrobial secondary metabolites from Trichoderma spp. as next generation fungicides. Biocontrol agents and secondary metabolites, pp.257-282.
Panicker, S. and Sayyed, R.Z., 2022. Hydrolytic enzymes from PGPR against plant fungal pathogens. In Antifungal Metabolites of Rhizobacteria for Sustainable Agriculture (pp. 211-238). Cham: Springer International Publishing.
Poveda, J., Abril-Urias, P. and Escobar, C., 2020. Biological control of plant-parasitic nematodes by filamentous fungi inducers of resistance: Trichoderma, mycorrhizal and endophytic fungi. Frontiers in Microbiology, 11, p.992.
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Rezapanah, M; Yanar, D; Doolotkeldieva, T and Shojai, S. 2025b. Available Plant Protection Products in the Iranian Market for Boosting Organic Agriculture. APBB: 1-4. DOI: https://doi.org/10.56669/UVSS9435
Rezapanah M. 2024. Requirement for boosting organic 3.0: further access to biological control agents (BCAs). In: David et al. (Eds). Global organic agricultural Innovations. Universitas Bakrie Press. Page 38-39. ISBN 978-602-7989-58-0.
Rezapanah, M; Shojai, S and Taheri, B. 2023. A Legislation Overview on Organic Farming in Iran: Biofertilizers and Biological Control Agents. APBB: DOI: http://doi.org/10.56669/ZLXG3022
Rezapanah, M; Momeni, A.; Barzali, M.; Rezaei, Y.; Khoubazd, M.; KarbalaiAghaMolki, M.; ShahdiKumleh, A.; HasaniMoghaddam, M.; Latifian, M.; Mahdavian, M. and Dalili. A. 2022. A comparative investigation on organic rice farming in North of Iran. In: Research for Organic Agriculture to tackle future challenges. The proceedings IFOAM 50th Anniversary Commemorative Conference, Organics for All and ISOFAR scientific workshops at the Organic conference of the 2nd Organic Expo, 1-3, 2022, Goesan, Korea. Pages 107-110.
Rezapanah, M. 2018. Organic plant protection: requirements base. In: Development of Organic Agriculture in Central Asia (Ed.: Aksoy et al.,). FAO. ISBN: ISBN 978-92-5-130376-4. Pp. 141-150.
Rezapanah, M. 2011. Fundamental development of biological control based on organic production system. Proceedings of the Biological Control Development Congress in Iran, 27-28 July 2011, Iranian Research Institute of Plant Protection, Tehran, PP: 277-288.
Sarmast, E.; Rezapanah, M.; Eslami, A. and Naeimi, Sh. 2018. Investigating the effect of two common copper fungicides on Fusarium oxysporum and two strains of Trichoderma harzianum. Proceeding of 23rd Iranian Plant Protection Congress, August 27-30, 2018, Gorgan University of Agricultural Science and Natural Resources, Iran, pp: 155-156.
Shaili, S.J., Kabiraj, U.K. and Mahedi, M., 2025. Fungal Biocontrol in Agriculture: A Sustainable Alternative to Chemical Pesticides–A Comprehensive Review. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 26(1), pp.2305-2316.
Sood, M., Kapoor, D., Kumar, V., Sheteiwy, M.S., Ramakrishnan, M., Landi, M., Araniti, F. and Sharma, A., 2020. Trichoderma: The “secrets” of a multitalented biocontrol agent. Plants, 9(6), p.762.
Sun, W., Shahrajabian, M.H. and Guan, L., 2025. The Biocontrol and Growth-Promoting Potential of Penicillium spp. and Trichoderma spp. in Sustainable Agriculture. Plants.
Thangaraj, P., Balamurali, A.S. and Muthusamy, N., 2025. Biological control of Trichoderma spp.: Mechanisms of action against phytopathogens, insect pests, and its multifaceted roles in agro-ecosystems. Environment conservation journal, 26(1), pp.302-314.
Wang, D., Li, Y., Yuan, Y., Chu, D., Cao, J., Sun, G., Ai, Y., Cui, Z., Zhang, Y., Wang, F. and Wang, X., 2022. Identification of non-volatile and volatile organic compounds produced by Bacillus siamensis LZ88 and their antifungal activity against Alternaria alternata. Biological Control, 169, p.104901.
A Review on Biological Control Agents in the Iranian Market: Trichoderma based preparations
ABSTRACT
The global movement toward sustainable agriculture has underscored the importance of biological control agents (BCAs) during also after the national project, Chemical Use Reduction Policy (CURP) in Iran, for the past 30 years. A few preparations for controlling plant diseases have been introduced to Iran’s BCAs market. The primary preparation was formulated based on Trichoderma species, the most important and widely studied fungal biocontrol agents in sustainable agriculture. The preparation, Tricodermin-B®, was produced based on the Trichoderma species isolated via the supported research activities. The conducted experiments under different conditions showed variable results, so the primary registrations were not extended; however, step by step, new preparations were produced and/or introduced to the market. The commercial products (both domestic and imported) are still introduced in terms of formulation types, target disease agents, their overall effectiveness, and their historical development; While the market is expanding and diversified, challenges remain, including product stability, farmer training, and regulatory hurdles. Despite differences in registration protocols, there is significant potential for the development of BCAs in the different periods of the last 50 years. These potentials warrant further exploration and investment through regional coordination, facilitated by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) and supported by scientific societies and market providers.
Keywords: Microbial control, biological control, Iran, Trichoderma, sustainable agriculture
INTRODUCTION
Microbial biocontrol agents (MBCAs) including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and nematodes are emerging as key players toward sustainable approaches via biological control agents (BCAs). These screened organisms offer improved safety and biodegradability, align well with integrated pest management (IPM) frameworks, and respond to consumer demand for organic production (Rezapanah, 2024 and Rezapanah et al., 2022).
This study presents Trichoderma-based preparations via an analysis of BCAs used in agriculture in Iran (Rezapanah et al., 2025b and 2023), focusing on microbial and biocontrol agents for controlling plant diseases. With rising global demand for eco-friendly alternatives, understanding the distribution and application of microbial preparations like Trichoderma-based preparations are crucial. This paper integrates product labels, registration data, and market records to provide a structured insight into the current landscape.
This review focuses on Trichoderma spp. fungi known for both disease suppression and promoting plant growth via analyzing research and market data recently. This review also evaluates Iran’s current landscape in microbial biocontrol, including historical usage, available products, efficacy, and key challenges.
Trichoderma species are among the most important and widely studied fungal biocontrol agents in sustainable agriculture. These soil-borne fungi, belonging to the Hypocreaceae family, exhibit a wide range of antagonistic activity against numerous plant pathogenic fungi, including Fusarium, Botrytis, and Phytophthora (Dutta et al., 2023). Their effectiveness in biological control is attributed to multiple mechanisms, including mycoparasitism where the fungi Trichoderma aggressively targets and degrades the hyphae of pathogenic fungi competitors based on their threat to an ecological niche and nutrients. Additionally, they will secrete hydrolytic enzymes, such as chitinases and β-1,3-glucanases, that degrade cell walls of the pathogens (Sood et al., 2020; Panicker and Sayyed, 2022). Trichoderma also generates multiple secondary metabolites, including some antibiotics, peptaibols and terpenes that have strong antifungal and antimicrobial activity (Nakkeeran et al., 2021). Moreover, they can exert indirect antagonism by inducing systemic resistance in plants through activation of defense signaling pathways, thereby enhancing the host's innate immunity against numerous pathogens (Poveda et al., 2020; Mishu et al., 2025). This induced systemic resistance (ISR) enhances the capacity of plants to tolerate biotic stresses, confirming that Trichoderma is a not only a biological control agent, but can also have significant potential as a biostimulant (Abd-Elsalam et al., 2025). The application of Trichoderma as a biological control agent not only offers many of the same benefits as a conventional chemical fungicide, such as being environmentally friendly, reducing chemical residues in an ecosystem, and stimulating soil biodiversity and health (Shailiet et al., 2025; Fenta and Mekonnen, 2024) but can sometimes be a part of a complimentary and/or integrated approach to the management of plant diseases. As a result, Trichoderma-based preparations are now part of integrated pest management (IPM) protocols and organic farming systems worldwide (Thangaraj et al., 2025). Numerous studies have shown that Trichoderma benefits crop yield, crop quality, and ecosystem sustainability (Kowsari and Eslahi, N., 2024; Sun et al., 2025; Dinh et al., 2024). With increased interest in environmentally sustainable farming and the challenges posed by pathogen resistance to chemical control, many studies focus on gene variation, functional characterization, and the optimization of field applications of Trichoderma species. Progress in the development of formulation technology and mass production of Trichoderma is essential to improving biological controls in agriculture to ensure effectiveness and economic benefit. In the end, the tactical applications of Trichoderma fungi can provide one method in achieving food security and sustainability in agriculture.
Trichoderma based preparations in Iran market:
The BCA preparations are based on the fungi used for fungal disease management and promoting root health products like Trichomix-HV® and Trico-Plus® target Fusarium, Pythium, and Rhizoctonia. The application improves plant vigor and drought/salt tolerance.
The information gathered on microbial control agents is consolidated as bellow list,[FFTC DFne1] providing a quick reference guide to commercial products, formulations, and primary targets in the Iranian context.
Trichomix-HV®
It is a preparation based on Trichoderma harzianum and Trichoderma viride for controlling diseases of Soil/Fruit Trees.
Trianum-G®
It is a preparation of Koppert Biological Systems based on Trichoderma harzianum T-22 for preventing and controlling soil-borne diseases and also promoting plant growth and uniformity. The granular formulation designed for nurseries and orchards with long-term soil stability. It can be easily mixed with or spread over the growing substrate or applied at sowing or planting. The beneficial fungus Trichoderma harzianum T-22 protects plants against a range of soil-borne root diseases through several different modes of action. Trichoderma harzianum controls the following plant diseases: Damping-off (Pythium spp.), Rhizoctonia root rot (Rhizoctonia spp.), Fusarium wilt (Fusarium spp.), Sclerotinia rot (Sclerotinia spp.) and Microdochium spp. There are two records of registration on diseases of cantaloupe and greenhouse tomato in Plant Protection Organization of Iran (PPO) on December 12, 2018.
Trianum-P®
It is another globally recognized biological control product of Koppert Biological Systems based on Trichoderma harzianum T-22. The producer believes that it is highly effective against root‑rot pathogens such as Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, Pythium, and Phytophthora through rapid rhizosphere colonization and strong enzymatic activity.
The granules can be easily dispersed in water and applied via drenching, drip irrigation, or spraying. There are two records of registration on diseases of greenhouse tomato and cucumber in Plant Protection Organization of Iran on April 28, 2012.The similar products such as Trichozit® and Trichozit‑G® were produced by Zist‑Fanavaran Pishia. They were suggested for greenhouse and open‑field crops for Improving root health and suppresses soil‑borne pathogens. The granular version used in orchards and transplant holes. Bio‑Derma® preparations were produced by Tabiat‑Gara based on T. harzianum and T. viride against Fusarium and Rhizoctonia in vegetables. Bio‑Derma Mix® and Tricho‑Shield® are mixed-species formulations to cover a broader disease spectrum. Tricho‑Mix® is another mixed-species formulation based on T. harzianum, T. viride and T. asperellum that was suggested for seed treatment and soil inoculation, also indicated as suitable for infected soils as well as Super‑Trichoderma® based on high‑density T. harzianum for heavily infested soils. Bio‑Tricho® was produced based on T. harzianum were suggested in cucurbits and greenhouse crops for stem and root rot control. Rishe‑Yar Trichoderma® and P‑Tricho® were produced based on T. asperellum a robust strain suitable for saline or alkaline soils and in citrus and pistachio orchards. Sabz‑Tricho® was produced based on T. harzianum known for high stability and consistency; used in intensive greenhouse systems. Tricho‑Rhiz® was produced based on T. viride enhances root elongation and improves transplant survival. Agri‑Tricho® was produced based on T. harzianum by Kavosh Kimia designed for fertigation systems in large industrial farms. The record of registration in PPO not found for the above mentioned products.
Bioroot/Chelfer®
It is a soil amendment product imported via a Greek company of Nature SA (since 1990) as fertilizers for plant nutrition and stimulation. It is registered as fertilizer number 15094 on October 2, 2019, but it is based on Trichoderma spp.
Trichorun®
It is another soil amendment product based on Trichoderma spp. produced by Iranian company, Biorun as fertilizer or plant nutrition and growth stimulation. It is only registered as fertilizer too.
It should be discussed why the MBCAs producers preferred such this registration approach (Rezapanah et al., 2023 and Barzali and Rezapanah, 2022)? Despite differences in registration protocols, there is significant potential for the development of BCAs in the different periods of the last 50 years. The primary preparation, Tricodermin-B®, was produced based on the Trichoderma species isolated via the supported research activities of CURP that no need to registration. Its conducted field experiments under different conditions showed variable results and its temporary registrations were not extended; Step by step, new preparations were successfully produced and/or introduced to the market, annual list of Plant Protection Organization and even only as registered fertilizer. Such variation in registration approaches (since no need to registration till registration as pesticide) should be considered and discussed. These potentials warrant further exploration and investment through regional coordination, facilitated by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) and supported by scientific societies, market providers and regional agreements for boosting BCAs nationally and/or regionally (Rezapanah et al., 2023).
DISCUSSION
The significance of bio-organic volatile compounds (VOCs) produced by Trichoderma spp. has also been documented for their potential role in plant growth promotion and disease suppression on plant pathogens. Joo and Hussein (2022) and Wang et al. (2022) have both studied the VOC emission profiles and demonstrated their antifungal activity against numerous plant pathogenic fungi. It can be one of the reasons for the registration of Trichoderma-based products as fertilizer in some countries, especially when it is a cheaper and faster process.
Iran’s microbial biocontrol sector is growing but faces hurdles. While formulation advances and locally adapted strains show promise, field performance still varies. Many producers are still dealing with registration processes in the Plant Protection Organization (PPO) viarelated institutes, while the registration of microbial biofertilizers (Rezapanah et al., 2023) is cheaper and faster.
Financial incentives, such as subsidies and/or support during CURP, could help reduce the perceived risk for knowledge-based producers and, at least, for small-scale farmers or value chains. Future strategies should be considered, such as regional or national boosted organic market and the integrated use of BCAs. Synergies among biocontrol agents could improve consistency and outcomes.
However, transitioning to biocontrol and organic farming is not straightforward (Rezapanah 2011 and 2024). It involves identifying potent strains, ensuring mass production, developing stable formulations, and critically educating farmers. Adoption remains limited, with skepticism surrounding product efficacy, shelf life, and application techniques. This underscores the need for a comprehensive, evidence-based review of microbial control in Iran.
The Trichoderma-based products demonstrate the highest prevalence among microbial and other MBCAs for controlling plant diseases in Iran, driven by their adaptability, proven biocontrol effects against soil borne pathogens, and relatively more straightforward formulation. Bacillus-based products are also widely adopted due to their multifunctional benefits, including plant growth promotion, biocontrol activity, and industrial scalability. It seems that yeast-based or botanical extract-based products have potential areas for market development, especially under greenhouse conditions or for niche crops. The study indicates a market inclination toward fungi-based solutions, with bacterial biofertilizers gaining significant ground in recent years.
CONCLUSION
Biological control agents have served for the control of major insect pests and diseases, while Trichoderma continues to gain recognition for its contributions to soil health. Today, Iranian growers benefit from an expanding toolkit of advanced biocontrol solutions to address the challenges posed by emerging pests and diseases. Domestic production since CRUP (Rezapanah 2011), based on several decades of localized R&D by Iranian universities and institutes, is an ideal foundation for future development. While regulatory mechanisms are still under development, they must become an integrated core of the national policy on crop protection (Rezapanah et al., 2023). To unlock the full potential of microbial biocontrol and attain the ambitious goal of reducing chemical use, certain high-priority areas should receive concerted attention immediately.
Firstly, research must re-emphasize effort on formulation development. Transferring effective strains into stable, efficient, and user-friendly formulations is the most critical step for bridging the gap between lab effectiveness and predictable performance under farm conditions. Poor formulations can negate even the most effective microbial strains.
Secondly, the technology gap between the researcher in the lab and the user on the farm must be addressed directly. This requires a multi-dimensional educational program—with hands-on workshops, easy-to-read product labeling, and prompt technical back-up—to give farmers the skills and confidence to use these living products efficiently. They must understand that biocontrol is not simply a substitution, but a different way of managing crops.
Thirdly, economic and policy instruments must be brought into play to induce adoption. Subsidies streamlined registration of locally proven-effective products, and enforcement of effective quality controls can create an economically viable and reputable market.
Finally, the research model must also transform. Future efforts must focus on synergistic sets of MBCAs, their use as part of organic farming or the IPM strategies, and their capacity to enhance plant resilience against the mounting abiotic stresses, such as drought and salinity, that define Iranian agriculture. Opportunities to combine the pest-killing capabilities of Beauvaria bassiana with the growth-stimulation and stress-reduction effects of Trichoderma are just one example of the powerful synergies (Sarmast et al., 2018) still waiting to be explored.
Iran stands at a promising juncture in the development of microbial biocontrol and effective MBCAs as well as Trichoderma based preparations. The foundations for a dynamic and self-sufficient sector are already in place. While challenges related to formulation, training, and scaling remain significant, they are not beyond reach. By strengthening collaboration among researchers, industry stakeholders, policymakers, and farmers, the country can move toward a model that is not only efficient and profitable but also resilient and sustainable in the long term. Achieving this transformation would demonstrate the practical value of nature-based solutions in meeting essential agricultural needs.
This integrated assessment bridges scientific categorization with regulatory and market data. The trends highlight the strong market position of Trichoderma and Bacillus products, while underlining the need for diversification and support for alternative biological control solutions. Policymakers, researchers, and private stakeholders can leverage structured insights for development planning and investment decisions not only in Iran market, but also regionally (Rezapanah 2018 and 2024) and beyond via a synchronized organic market (Rezapanah et al., 2025a).
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