Kiwifruit black spot disease, caused by the fungal pathogen Didymella glomerata, poses a significant threat to the kiwifruit industry, leading to substantial losses during fruit growth. To combat this issue, researchers aimed to identify a potential biocontrol agent against D. glomerata. Through screening bacterial isolates from kiwifruit rhizosphere soil, Bacillus mojavensis strain BQ-33 exhibited remarkable antifungal activity. Further evaluation revealed that both BQ-33 suspension and its sterile supernatant (SS) demonstrated broad-spectrum antifungal properties.
The SS disrupted the cell membrane and cell wall of fungal mycelia, causing leakage of ions, proteins, and nucleic acids. Notably, SS effectively inhibited kiwifruit black spot disease in vivo, indicating the promising biocontrol potential of BQ-33.
Kiwifruit, known for its nutritional value, faces the challenge of black spot disease, impacting fruit quality and commercial viability. The identification of D. glomerata as a key pathogen causing this disease underscores the urgency for effective control strategies. While synthetic fungicides are commonly used, the rise of resistance and environmental concerns highlight the need for safer alternatives. Biological control, leveraging beneficial microorganisms like Bacillus species, emerges as a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to manage plant diseases. B. mojavensis BQ-33’s potent antifungal activity against D. glomerata signifies a novel avenue for combating kiwifruit black spot disease.
Biocontrol agents like B. mojavensis have shown success in mitigating various plant diseases, yet their application for kiwifruit black spot disease remained unexplored. The robust antifungal activity of BQ-33, particularly against D. glomerata, positions it as a promising candidate for biocontrol. The secretion of chitinase and β-1,3-glucanase by BQ-33’s SS suggests a mechanism involving cell wall degradation of fungal pathogens. In vivo assessments demonstrated the efficacy of BQ-33 SS in preventing and reducing kiwifruit black spot disease, emphasizing its potential for practical implementation in agriculture.
This study underscores the significance of B. mojavensis BQ-33 as a biocontrol agent against kiwifruit black spot disease caused by D. glomerata. The findings highlight the importance of exploring rhizosphere microorganisms for biocontrol applications, paving the way for sustainable disease management strategies in agriculture. By elucidating the inhibitory mechanisms and in vivo efficacy of BQ-33, this research provides valuable insights into the development of biocontrol agents for enhancing crop protection and reducing reliance on conventional fungicides.
Key Takeaways:
– Bacillus mojavensis strain BQ-33 exhibits potent antifungal activity against Didymella glomerata, the causal agent of kiwifruit black spot disease.
– BQ-33’s sterile supernatant disrupts fungal cell membranes and walls, inhibiting disease progression and demonstrating biocontrol potential.
– The secretion of chitinase and β-1,3-glucanase by BQ-33 suggests a mechanism involving enzymatic degradation of fungal cell walls.
– In vivo experiments confirm the efficacy of BQ-33 supernatant in preventing and reducing kiwifruit black spot disease, highlighting its promise as a biocontrol agent.
Tags: centrifugation, biotech
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