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Identification and Biological Characteristics of Alternaria gossypina as a Promising Biocontrol Agent for the Control of Mikania micrantha

Summary

Researchers in China identified a fungus called Alternaria gossypina that causes leaf disease in Mikania micrantha, a highly invasive plant threatening ecosystems worldwide. Through laboratory testing, they confirmed the fungus can effectively damage and control this invasive weed and determined the best growing conditions for mass-producing this beneficial fungus. This discovery offers a promising natural and environmentally friendly solution to control M. micrantha spread, as an alternative to harmful chemical pesticides or labor-intensive manual removal.

Background

Mikania micrantha is one of the top 100 most threatening invasive species worldwide, causing significant ecological and agricultural damage by reducing species diversity and destroying plant communities. Development of fungal herbicides using phytopathogenic fungi offers an environmentally friendly alternative to physical and chemical control methods. This study focuses on identifying and characterizing a fungal strain with biocontrol potential against M. micrantha.

Objective

To isolate, identify, and characterize the biological properties of a fungal strain with strong pathogenicity to M. micrantha leaves, and to determine its potential as a biocontrol agent. The study employed morphological observation, molecular biological identification, and pathogenicity testing to establish the fungal strain’s taxonomic status and optimal growth conditions.

Results

The isolated strain SWFU-MM002 was identified as Alternaria gossypina through morphological and molecular analysis. Optimal growth conditions were PDA or PSKA medium, 27°C temperature, pH 6-10, with maltose and peptone as best carbon and nitrogen sources respectively. Microscopic observation revealed that mycelia invaded M. micrantha leaf tissues through stomata, forming network structures and secondary conidia by 96 hours post-inoculation, achieving a disease index of 75.74.

Conclusion

This is the first report of leaf spot disease of M. micrantha caused by A. gossypina. The strain exhibits strong pathogenicity and favorable biological characteristics suitable for large-scale cultivation and application as a biocontrol agent. The findings provide a solid foundation for developing A. gossypina as an effective, environmentally friendly control strategy for the invasive species M. micrantha.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Experimental Laboratory Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/jof10100691; PMID: 39452643
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