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Advanced fermentation techniques enhance dioxolanone type biopesticide production from Phyllosticta capitalensis

Summary

Researchers discovered that special fermentation techniques can significantly boost the production of natural pesticides from a beneficial fungus called Phyllosticta capitalensis. By using materials like glass wool during fermentation, they increased the production of specific bioactive compounds. The resulting extracts showed excellent effectiveness against garden pests like aphids and harmful nematodes, offering a natural alternative to synthetic pesticides for sustainable agriculture.

Background

Endophytic fungi are important sources of secondary metabolites with bioactive properties. Phyllosticta capitalensis is an endophytic fungus isolated from Persea indica that produces dioxolanone and meroterpene compounds with pesticidal activity. Optimization of fermentation conditions can enhance production of these valuable bioactive compounds.

Objective

To evaluate the production of dioxolanone and meroterpene secondary metabolites under different fermentation conditions using microparticle-enhanced culture (MPEC) and surface adhesion fermentation (SAF) techniques. The study aimed to identify optimal fermentation parameters to enhance biopesticide production from P. capitalensis.

Results

Glass wool proved to be the most effective modifier for dioxolanone production, particularly for guignardianone C at day 10 with 2.82-fold improvement. Bentonite and metallic mesh also enhanced production of specific compounds. Bioactivity assays showed glass wool formulations were most effective against nematodes (100% mortality), while bentonite extracts showed highest antifeedant activity against aphids (up to 95%).

Conclusion

Advanced fermentation techniques, particularly surface adhesion fermentation with glass wool, significantly enhanced production of bioactive dioxolanone derivatives and improved biopesticide efficacy. These findings demonstrate the potential for scaling up sustainable production of natural biopesticides for agricultural applications. The study highlights the importance of culture conditions in optimizing fungal secondary metabolite production.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40055472, DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-92626-0
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