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Identification and growth-promoting effect of Paecilomyces lilacinus a biocontrol fungi for walnut rot disease

Summary

Scientists identified a beneficial fungus called Paecilomyces lilacinus from walnut soil that can fight walnut rot disease more safely than chemical fungicides. Testing showed this fungus not only kills the disease-causing pathogen but also boosts walnut seed germination and seedling growth by up to 98%. This natural solution could help walnut farmers protect their crops while avoiding harmful chemical pesticides.

Background

Walnut rot disease caused by Cytospora chrysosperma significantly impacts walnut production in Xinjiang. Chemical fungicides used for disease control have led to drug-resistant pathogens and environmental concerns. Paecilomyces lilacinus is known for antagonistic activity against various plant pathogens but lacks documented efficacy against walnut rot.

Objective

To identify and characterize an antagonistic fungal strain from walnut rhizosphere soil effective against C. chrysosperma, evaluate its broad-spectrum antifungal activity, and assess its growth-promoting effects on walnut seeds and seedlings.

Results

Strain 5-38 identified as P. lilacinus exhibited 78.71% inhibition rate against C. chrysosperma with broad-spectrum activity against 8 pathogens. Fermentation filtrate inhibition increased with concentration, reaching 92.28% at 15% concentration. At 150 mg/ml, the filtrate enhanced seed germination and seedling growth with increases of 30.12% in height, 33.89% in root length, 81.89% in root number, 6.83% in leaf area, and 98.26% in dry weight.

Conclusion

P. lilacinus strain 5-38 represents a promising biocontrol agent for walnut rot disease with dual benefits of pathogen inhibition and growth promotion. The strain demonstrates thermal stability up to 75°C and broad-spectrum antifungal activity. This is the first documentation of P. lilacinus as an effective biological control for walnut rot, offering a safer alternative to chemical fungicides.
  • Published in:PLoS One,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.1371/journal.pone.0314160
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