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Antifungal Activity of Industrial Bacillus Strains against Mycogone perniciosa, the Causative Agent of Wet Bubble Disease in White Button Mushrooms

Summary

Researchers tested two special bacteria strains (Bacillus subtilis B-10 and M-22) to protect white button mushrooms from wet bubble disease, a serious fungal infection that can destroy entire crops. When applied to mushroom growing beds, both bacteria effectively prevented the disease-causing fungus from developing, with success rates between 50-99% depending on application method. This offers mushroom farmers a natural, chemical-free alternative to synthetic fungicides for protecting their crops.

Background

White button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) experience significant yield instability in artificial cultivation, with wet bubble disease caused by Mycogone perniciosa being the primary disease responsible. This fungal pathogen can lead to total crop loss and has developed resistance to chemical fungicides, necessitating alternative biocontrol approaches.

Objective

To characterize the antifungal effects of two industrial Bacillus subtilis strains (B-10 and M-22) against M. perniciosa and evaluate their potential for controlling wet bubble disease in white button mushroom cultivation. The study aimed to determine the efficacy of these antagonist strains when applied via different methods and developmental stages of the pathogen.

Results

Both B. subtilis strains demonstrated high biological efficacy against M. perniciosa at early developmental stages: B-10 showed 50.9-99.6% effectiveness and M-22 showed 57.5-99.2% effectiveness. M-22 exhibited greater activity against established colonies during the first day of exposure, while B-10 provided more sustained suppression over time. Preventive treatment with both strains completely suppressed mycopathogen development.

Conclusion

B. subtilis B-10 and M-22 strains are effective biocontrol agents against M. perniciosa and warrant recommendation for introducing during casing soil preparation to prevent wet bubble disease development. The high efficacy of preventive treatment suggests that these antagonistic strains could provide an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical fungicides in mushroom cultivation.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:In Vitro Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/microorganisms11082056, PMID: 37630616
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