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Identification and Characterization of Fusarium incarnatum Causing Leaf Spot and Fruit Rot on Luffa in China

Summary

In 2022, luffa farmers in China faced a serious fungal disease causing leaves and fruits to rot. Scientists identified the culprit as Fusarium incarnatum fungus. They also discovered that a beneficial soil bacterium called Bacillus velezensis can fight this fungus and help plants grow better, offering farmers a natural alternative to chemical fungicides.

Background

In autumn 2022, an outbreak of fungal rot disease affected luffa (sponge gourd) crops in Shanghai and Zhejiang Province, China, with approximately 30% of plants showing infection symptoms. Luffa cylindrica is an important crop widely cultivated in China with numerous nutritional, industrial, and biotechnological applications. While various fungal pathogens affecting luffa have been documented, F. incarnatum causing leaf spot and fruit rot on luffa had not been previously reported in China.

Objective

To identify and characterize the pathogenic fungus causing leaf spot and fruit rot disease on luffa plants in Shanghai and Zhejiang Province. Additionally, to evaluate biological control potential using antagonistic bacterial strains, particularly Bacillus velezensis, for disease management.

Results

Molecular and morphological analysis confirmed Fusarium incarnatum as the causative agent of the disease. Large conidia were sickle-shaped with 3-5 septa (3.44 ± 0.53 × 22.97 ± 3.81 µm), while small conidia were ovoid with 0-2 septa (2.66 ± 0.44 × 10.61 ± 2.71 µm). Bacillus velezensis BV171 demonstrated strong inhibition of F. incarnatum mycelial growth and significantly promoted sponge gourd plant growth while alleviating disease symptoms.

Conclusion

This is the first report of F. incarnatum causing leaf spot and fruit rot on luffa in China. The findings provide essential information for developing diagnostic tools and disease management strategies, with Bacillus velezensis BV171 showing promise as a biocontrol agent for managing Fusarium rot disease in sponge gourd crops.
  • Published in:Plants (Basel),
  • Study Type:Identification Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/plants14060845, PMID: 40265751
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