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Different Antifungal Activity of Anabaena sp., Ecklonia sp., and Jania sp. Against Botrytis cinerea

Summary

This research investigated how natural compounds from marine organisms could help protect strawberries from harmful mold. Scientists extracted substances called polysaccharides from seaweed and bacteria to fight against grey mold disease that commonly affects fruits. The study found these natural compounds effectively protected strawberries when applied before harvest, offering a promising eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. Impacts on everyday life: – Provides safer, natural alternatives to chemical pesticides for food production – Could help reduce food waste by preventing fruit spoilage – Supports more sustainable and environmentally-friendly farming practices – May lead to healthier produce with fewer chemical residues – Could result in more affordable organic fruit options for consumers

Background

Botrytis cinerea is a major postharvest fungal pathogen causing grey mold disease worldwide, affecting various fruits including strawberries. While synthetic pesticides are commonly used, the EU Directive 2009/128/EC promotes bio-based strategies for sustainable agriculture protection. Algae and cyanobacteria extracts have shown promise as natural alternatives for disease control, with demonstrated activity against various plant pathogens.

Objective

To evaluate the antifungal activity of water extracts and polysaccharides from Anabaena sp., Ecklonia sp., and Jania sp. against B. cinerea growth and grey mold disease on strawberry fruits through in vitro testing and pre/post-harvest applications.

Results

Water extracts from all species inhibited B. cinerea growth in vitro. Polysaccharides from Anabaena sp. and Ecklonia sp. effectively reduced colony growth, CFUs, and CFU growth, while Jania sp. only reduced spore germination. In pre-harvest treatments, all polysaccharides significantly reduced both infected fruit area and pathogen sporulation, with Jania sp. showing the highest efficacy.

Conclusion

Polysaccharides extracted from Anabaena sp., Ecklonia sp., and Jania sp. demonstrated significant antifungal activity against B. cinerea and effectively controlled grey mold disease in pre-harvest applications. These compounds show promise as environmentally-friendly alternatives for disease management in sustainable agriculture.
  • Published in:Marine Drugs,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.3390/md17050299
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