In vitro effects of salicylic acid, calcium and copper ions on growth and sporulation of Ganoderma boninense

The in vitro effects of single and combined application of calcium ion (Ca2+), copper ion (Cu2+) and salicylic acid (SA) were evaluated on growth and sporulation of Ganoderma boninense. In poison medium test, T7-(Ca+Cu+SA) showed effective control of G. boninense in-vitro with EC50 and EC90 values of 1500+150+150 ppm and 2000+200+200 ppm, respectively. However, in dipping test, T3-(SA) showed effective control for G. boninense in-vitro with EC50 and EC90 values of 50 ppm and 200 ppm, respectively. Interestingly, T7 (Ca+Cu+SA) indicate effective control of G. boninense at low concentration, 500+50+50 pmm as shown by EC90 analysis. Pre treatment of Ganoderma -infected rubber wood block with 500 ppm Ca + 50 ppm Cu + 50 ppm SA reduced the number (20.14%), size (1.20 cm2) and weight of basidiocarp (0.80 g) compared to the control. This was followed by a significant reduction in weight loss of the Ganoderma–infected rubber wood block (41.85%) suggesting the inhibition of the degradative enzymatic activity of the fungus. The mixture of Cu, Ca and SA had potential to suppress growth of G. boninense in vitro.Keywords: Ganoderma boninense, calcium chloride, copper- ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), salicylic acid, EC50 and EC9