Influencia de bioestimulantes en el desarrollo morfométrico y la diversidad fúngica rizosférica en maíz (Zea mays L.) bajo invernadero

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) is a globally important crop, particularly in Mexico, where it faces challenges such as climate change, soil degradation, and phytopathogenic diseases. This study evaluated the effect of biostimulants (Trichoderma spp., chitosan, and humus leachate) on morphometric growth and rhizosphere fungal diversity in maize plants grown under greenhouse conditions. The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design with nine treatments and nine replicates and was conducted during the autumn–winter 2023–2024 and spring–summer 2024 seasons. Results showed that the combined application of biostimulants promoted greater plant growth, increased biomass and root volume, and reduced the presence of pathogenic fungi associated with diseases, suggesting that this strategy may enhance maize productivity under adverse conditions.