Booth Id:
PLNT009
Category:
Plant Sciences
Year:
2026
Finalist Names:
Alma'aitah, Shahed (School: Jubilee School)
Abstract:
Fusarium species are plant pathogens that reduce crop yields and contaminate food with harmful mycotoxins. Because long-term reliance on chemical fungicides can lead to resistance and environmental concerns, alternative control strategies are needed. In this study, I evaluated the antagonistic potential of two Trichoderma species against 50 Fusarium isolates under controlled in vitro conditions. A dual culture assay was conducted on Potato Dextrose Agar, and Fusarium radial growth was measured on days 3, 6, and 9 to determine inhibition relative to control plates.
By Day 9 most isolates showed between 40–65% growth inhibition, with maximum suppression reaching approximately 78% in highly responsive isolates. However, responses were not uniform. A small number of isolates exhibited lower inhibition (approximately 22–30%) or partial recovery over time, indicating that antagonistic interactions are isolate-dependent and dynamic. Statistical analysis using a one-tailed paired t-test confirmed significant growth reduction, and large Cohen’s d values reflected strong biological effects. These results demonstrate consistent but variable suppression of Fusarium and highlight the importance of screening multiple isolates when evaluating biological control agents.
Awards Won:
King Abdulaziz &
his Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity: Full Scholarship from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals(KFUPM) (and a $400 cash prize)
King Abdulaziz &
his Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity: NOT TO BE READ -- $400 cash prize for each Full Scholarship from King Fahd University award recipient