Production of spores of Trichoderma harzianum on sugar cane molasses and bagasse pith in solid state fermentation for biocontrol

Solid state fermentation was carried out for the production of spores from Trichoderma harzianum No 53 using sugar cane bagasse pith as solid matrix a nd sugar cane molasses as carbon and energy source. Different nitrogen sour ces such as urea, (NH4)(2)SO4, NH4H2PO4 and (NH4)(2)HPO4 were added in the media to test their effect on spores production. Among these, urea was foun d most useful that resulted high no of spores (1x10(9)/gDM). The influence of temperature and initial moisture of the substrate was studied through a 2(2) experimental plan design. No statistical differences were found within the range of 30-35 degrees C and 60-70% for temperature and moisture respe ctively. The biotechnological parameters of the process were derived from t he Oxygen Uptake Rate (OUR) pattern, which corresponded to the order of 10( 9)spores/g moist material. The specific growth rate, maintenance coefficien t and the yield based on O-2 consumption were 0.108 h(-1), 0.001 g.O-2/g.bi omass.h and 2.7 g biomass/g O-2 consumed, respectively.