<![CDATA[The rhizosphere is a soil zone surrounding plant roots characterized by high microbial abundance, including organic matter-decomposing fungi. Trichoderma sp. is recognized as an antagonistic fungus effective in controlling plant pathogens and playing a role in cellulose degradation. This study aimed to explore and identify Trichoderma sp. isolates from the rhizosphere of crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia speciosa) as biocontrol agent candidates. Soil samples were collected in June 2023 at three locations in Lampung University: Department of Biology (JB), Faculty of Agriculture (FP), and Faculty of Engineering (FT). Fungal density analysis was conducted quantitatively, while isolate identification was based on macroscopic and microscopic morphological characteristics. The results showed that the highest fungal density was found at the FP location (5×10⁷ CFU/g) and the lowest at JB (3×10⁷ CFU/g). Density variation was influenced by vegetation diversity and soil organic matter content. The obtained isolates were identified as Trichoderma sp. with characteristics of dark green colonies, erect conidiophores, and vertical branching. Trichoderma sp. from the crape myrtle rhizosphere has potential to be developed as a biocontrol agent for plant pathogens and organic matter decomposer.]]>
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