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Biocontrol Activity of Trichoderma Species Isolated from Grapevines in British Columbia Against Botryosphaeria Dieback Fungal Pathogens

Summary

This research discovered beneficial fungi naturally present in British Columbia vineyards that can protect grapevines from destructive diseases. The scientists identified seven different species of Trichoderma fungi, including two previously unknown species, and showed that some were highly effective at preventing infection through pruning wounds. This natural biocontrol approach could provide grape growers with sustainable alternatives to chemical fungicides. Impacts on everyday life: • Supports production of healthier grapes for wine and table consumption • Reduces need for chemical fungicides in agriculture • Advances sustainable farming practices • Helps protect economically important wine industry • Demonstrates value of discovering and utilizing beneficial organisms already present in local environments

Background

Botryosphaeria dieback (BD) is a destructive grapevine trunk disease causing significant yield losses and limiting vineyard lifespan worldwide. The disease primarily infects through pruning wounds and currently has no registered control products in Canada. With increasing demand for sustainable viticulture practices, there is growing interest in biological control alternatives to chemical fungicides for managing these diseases.

Objective

The main objectives were to: 1) identify and characterize Trichoderma species naturally occurring in British Columbia vineyards through morphological and molecular studies, and 2) evaluate their potential as biological control agents against two common BD pathogens – Diplodia seriata and Neofusicoccum parvum.

Results

Seven Trichoderma species were identified, including five known species (T. asperelloides, T. atroviride, T. harzianum, T. koningii, T. tomentosum) and two novel species (T. canadense and T. viticola). In vitro assays showed several isolates inhibited pathogen growth by up to 75%. In planta trials identified T. asperelloides, T. atroviride and T. canadense isolates providing 70-100% pruning wound protection against BD fungi for up to 21 days after treatment, performing similar to or better than commercial products.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that locally sourced Trichoderma species from British Columbia grapevines show strong potential as biological control agents for protecting pruning wounds against Botryosphaeria dieback pathogens. The identification of novel species and highly effective isolates supports further evaluation under field conditions for developing sustainable disease management strategies.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Laboratory and Greenhouse Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/jof8040409
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