Black gram (Vigna mungo L.) is a vital pulse crop extensively cultivated across India, valued for its high protein content and soil-enriching properties. However, its productivity is frequently hampered by dry root rot, a devastating disease caused by the soil-borne fungus Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid, particularly under drought and high-temperature conditions. To provide a sustainable and eco-friendly solution, this study explored the biocontrol potential of chitinolytic bacteria against M. phaseolina. A field survey was conducted in major black gram-producing regions of Tamil Nadu to assess disease incidence. The pathogen was isolated from infected plants and identified through morphological methods. Simultaneously, bacterial isolates were obtained from partially degraded cow horn samples and screened for chitinolytic activity using different culture media. Among the 27 isolates tested, three strains BCH2, BCH10, and BCH14 demonstrated significant chitinase activity. Of the media tested, M3 medium supported the highest enzyme production. Dual culture assays were conducted to evaluate antagonistic potential against M. phaseolina. All three isolates inhibited fungal growth, with BCH14 showing the most prominent suppression zone, indicating strong antagonistic ability. The results suggest that chitinolytic bacteria, particularly BCH14, possess promising biocontrol efficacy and could serve as a viable alternative to chemical fungicides. This study contributes to the development of eco-friendly, microbe-based strategies for effective management of charcoal rot in black gram, supporting sustainable agriculture and reducing dependency on synthetic agrochemicals

Blackgram, Dry root rot, chitinolytic bacteria, biocontrol, sustainable agriculture

This study emphasises the potential of chitinolytic bacteria as an environmentally friendly approach for managing charcoal rot disease in black gram, caused by Macrophomina phaseolina. A field survey conducted across major black gram-growing regions in Tamil Nadu confirmed the presence of the disease. The pathogen was isolated and identified through morphological observations and molecular techniques. Out of 27 bacterial isolates obtained from a cow horn sample, three strains, BCH 2, BCH 10, and BCH14, exhibited strong chitinase activity, which helps break down fungal cell walls. These isolates formed clear zones on chitin-containing media and showed good enzyme production, especially in M3 medium. BCH 14 performed the highest level of effectiveness. These bacteria also grew well in special media designed to detect chitinase activity. Overall, the findings suggested that chitinolytic bacteria, especially BCH 14, could serve as a safe and natural alternative to chemical fungicides. Applying these helpful microbes in agriculture can effectively manage plant diseases, lower the reliance on chemical treatments, and promote environmentally friendly farming. This approach provides a promising way to control charcoal rot in black gram while sustainably enhancing crop health and productivity

Rajasulochana N., Rageshwari S., Anbukkarasi K. and Rex B. (2025). Exploiting the Potential of Chitinolytic Bacteria Against Dry Root Rot Pathogen Infecting Black Gram. Biological Forum, 17(8): 60-66