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Bacteria from the Amphibian Skin Inhibit the Growth of Phytopathogenic Fungi and Control Postharvest Rots

Summary

Researchers discovered that bacteria living on frog skin can effectively prevent fungal diseases that rot fruits after harvest. These bacteria work by producing toxic compounds and releasing protective gases that stop fungi like green mold from growing. When applied to citrus, tomatoes, and blueberries, the bacteria significantly reduced fruit rot, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical fungicides for food preservation.

Background

Postharvest fungal diseases cause significant losses in fruit production globally. Chemical treatments have limitations due to emerging resistant strains and environmental concerns. Amphibian skin bacteria have been identified as a reservoir of protective microbiomes with antifungal properties.

Objective

To investigate the biocontrol potential of three bacterial isolates from frog skin (Craugastor fitzingeri) against multiple phytopathogenic fungi responsible for postharvest fruit diseases.

Results

Bacterial strains C23F, C26G, and C32I strongly inhibited mycelial growth of Penicillium digitatum, P. italicum, Alternaria alternata, and Aspergillus niger through both diffusible compounds and volatile organic compounds. In vivo treatments significantly reduced disease incidence in citrus (green mold), tomato (gray mold), and blueberry, with P. digitatum showing the most notable protection.

Conclusion

Frog skin-derived bacteria demonstrate broad-spectrum antifungal activity against important postharvest pathogens through multiple antagonistic mechanisms. These bacterial strains represent promising biological control agents for sustainable management of postharvest diseases in horticultural crops.
  • Published in:Microbial Ecology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.1007/s00248-025-02611-3; PMID: 41026209
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