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Bacillus subtilis Strain TCX1 Isolated from Ambrosia artemisiifolia: Enhancing Cucumber Growth and Biocontrol Against Cucumber Fusarium Wilt

Summary

Scientists discovered a beneficial bacterium called Bacillus subtilis strain TCX1 that can protect cucumber plants from a devastating fungal disease called Fusarium wilt. This bacterium both kills the fungus directly through special compounds it produces and strengthens the plant’s natural immune system. Additionally, the bacterium helps cucumber plants grow better by producing growth hormones and improving nutrient absorption, making it a promising natural solution for farmers.

Background

Cucumber is highly susceptible to Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum (FOC), leading to significant yield losses. Endophytic bacteria offer environmentally friendly biocontrol solutions. This study isolated and characterized endophytic bacteria from the invasive plant Ambrosia artemisiifolia for their potential agricultural applications.

Objective

To isolate and screen endophytic bacteria from Ambrosia artemisiifolia for biocontrol activity against cucumber Fusarium wilt and to elucidate the mechanisms of growth promotion and disease resistance in cucumber seedlings.

Results

Bacillus subtilis strain TCX1 exhibited 86% inhibition against FOC and produced lipopeptides, wall-degrading enzymes, and siderophores. TCX1 colonized cucumber tissues and reduced disease index by 41.9% while promoting plant growth. TCX1 induced antioxidant enzyme expression (SOD, POD, PAL, PPO) and upregulated ISR and SAR marker genes (npr1, pr1a, pr2, pr9, lox1, ctr1) in cucumber seedlings.

Conclusion

Bacillus subtilis strain TCX1 functions as both a biological control agent and plant growth promoter through direct antagonism of FOC and indirect induction of systemic resistance in cucumber. Its broad-spectrum activity and dual functionality make it a promising sustainable solution for managing cucumber Fusarium wilt.
  • Published in:Plants (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41095209, DOI: 10.3390/plants14193068
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