Experimental Investigations on Growth Dynamics of Terrestrial Talaromyces Sp. Bsp_vit1: A Prospective Biocontrol and Antifungal Strain

In our attempts to search for bioactive metabolites from soil fungi, we explored some local regions, in and around Tamil Nadu, India, and we serendipitously encountered the genus, Talaromyces . This study describes the isolation and characterization of a novel terrestrial strain, Talaromyces sp. BSP_VIT1, from a particular sample that was collected within the campus of VIT, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India. Morphological assessment revealed features akin to Penicillium , but molecular taxonomic identification using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing confirmed its relationship with the Talaromyces genus, closely resembling the Talaromyces sp. isolate W3-04. Phylogenetic analysis further classified it as a novel strain (GenBank: PQ037354.1). Potato dextrose agar media supported optimal proliferation, with the highest sporulation at 35 ⁰ C, confirming its mesophilic character. The strain exhibited acidophilic characteristics, yet tolerated alkaline conditions up to pH 12. Solvent extraction using ethyl acetate and chloroform yielded extracts, which when analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed bands predominantly in the range 43–66 kDa. Antifungal bioassays exhibited significant biocontrol potential against, Fusarium solani (81.93% inhibition), followed by F. oxysporum (43.42%). In conclusion, the results provide evidence for the potential of using Talaromyces sp. BSP_VIT1 as a source of antifungal agents and, as a source of industrially useful enzymes. The genus Talaromyces is recognized for its ecological diversity and metabolic flexibility, leading to the production of diverse bioactive compounds with promising applications in agriculture and biotechnology. Therefore, this study encourages further investigations on Talaromyces , such as metabolomic, peptidomic and also proteomic studies.