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Bacillus subtilis ED24 Controls Fusarium culmorum in Wheat Through Bioactive Metabolite Secretion and Modulation of Rhizosphere Microbiome

Summary

A beneficial bacteria called Bacillus subtilis ED24 was found to effectively protect wheat plants from a destructive fungal disease called Fusarium culmorum. When applied to wheat seeds, this bacteria improved seed germination and plant growth better than a commercial chemical fungicide, while also promoting helpful microorganisms in the soil around the plant roots. The bacteria works by producing special chemical compounds that kill the harmful fungus and by enriching the soil microbiome with beneficial organisms.

Background

Fusarium culmorum is a soil-borne fungal pathogen causing significant yield losses in wheat and other cereals. Chemical fungicides like tebuconazole are commonly used but raise concerns about environmental toxicity, human health risks, and development of resistant fungal strains. Endophytic bacteria, particularly those from medicinal plants, represent promising sustainable alternatives as biocontrol agents.

Objective

To evaluate the antifungal potential of Bacillus subtilis ED24, an endophytic strain isolated from Ziziphus lotus roots, and assess its effects on wheat growth, yield, and rhizosphere microbiome modulation under controlled conditions.

Results

B. subtilis ED24 inhibited F. culmorum mycelial growth by 82% and produced 37 distinct secondary metabolites including carbon-cycling compounds. The strain significantly enhanced wheat germination (85%), thousand grain weight (40.4g), and seed protein content (19.98%), while modulating rhizosphere microbiota by enriching beneficial taxa like Eurotiomycetes and Paramesorhizobium. F. culmorum spores were notably absent in root endosphere of B. subtilis ED24-treated plants.

Conclusion

B. subtilis ED24 demonstrates significant biocontrol and plant growth-promoting properties through bioactive metabolite secretion and beneficial microbiome modulation. The strain offers a sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides for wheat protection, achieving disease control without compromising plant performance or yield.
  • Published in:Microbial Ecology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40830705, DOI: 10.1007/s00248-025-02590-5
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