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Complete genome analysis and antimicrobial mechanism of Bacillus velezensis GX0002980 reveals its biocontrol potential against mango anthracnose disease

Summary

Researchers discovered a beneficial bacterium called Bacillus velezensis that can prevent mango rot caused by a destructive fungus. This bacterium produces natural antimicrobial compounds that kill the disease-causing fungus without the need for harmful chemical pesticides. When applied to mangoes, it reduced disease by 52% and extended the fruits’ shelf life, offering a safe and environmentally friendly solution for protecting mangoes after harvest.

Background

Mango anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is a severe post-harvest disease affecting mango quality and yield globally. Current chemical fungicide treatments present problems including high cost, environmental pollution, pesticide residues, and pathogen resistance. Biocontrol bacteria offer a promising green alternative for managing this important agricultural disease.

Objective

This study aimed to isolate and characterize an antagonistic bacterium from rhizosphere soil with biocontrol potential against C. gloeosporioides, perform complete genome sequencing analysis, identify antimicrobial mechanisms, and evaluate its effectiveness in controlling post-harvest mango anthracnose disease.

Results

Strain GX0002980 was identified as Bacillus velezensis with a genome size of 3,907,381 bp containing 14 secondary metabolite synthesis gene clusters. The strain demonstrated 52% in vitro control efficiency against mango anthracnose and produced multiple antimicrobial compounds including surfactin, bacilysin, and butirosin A. It exhibited broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against 12 plant pathogenic fungi and possessed plant-growth-promoting characteristics.

Conclusion

B. velezensis GX0002980 demonstrates significant biocontrol potential against mango anthracnose through multiple antimicrobial mechanisms involving lipopeptide compounds, polyketides, and cell-wall degrading enzymes. The strain effectively suppresses post-harvest disease and extends mango storage time, making it a promising candidate for biological control applications in the mango industry.
  • Published in:Microbiology Spectrum,
  • Study Type:Experimental research study,
  • Source: PMID: 40237490, DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02685-24
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