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Identification of a Novel Pathogen of Peanut Root Rot, Ceratobasidium sp. AG-A, and the Potential of Selected Bacterial Biocontrol Agents

Summary

Scientists in China discovered a new fungal disease causing peanut root rot, identified as Ceratobasidium sp. AG-A. They tested three types of beneficial bacteria as natural pest control agents and found they effectively inhibited the disease-causing fungus while promoting peanut plant growth. These findings offer farmers an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical fungicides for managing this newly identified threat to peanut crops.

Background

Peanut root rot is a significant threat to global peanut production. Multiple pathogens cause this disease, and Rhizoctonia spp. are prevalent. Ceratobasidium sp., formerly classified within Rhizoctonia, are soil-borne pathogens causing critical diseases in economically important plants, though their occurrence in peanut was previously unreported in China.

Objective

To identify the novel pathogen of peanut root rot in Shandong Province, China, through morphological and molecular characterization. To screen and validate effective bacterial biocontrol strains against the identified pathogen for sustainable disease management.

Results

Isolate RC-103 was identified as Ceratobasidium sp. AG-A, representing the first documented occurrence in China. Bacillus subtilis LY-1, Bacillus velezensis ZHX-7, and Burkholderia cepacia Bc-HN1 showed strong antagonistic activity with inhibition rates of 54.70%, 45.86%, and 48.62% respectively. Culture filtrates of biocontrol bacteria significantly promoted peanut growth and achieved biocontrol efficacy of 41.86%, with antagonistic mechanisms involving hyphal abnormalities.

Conclusion

Ceratobasidium sp. AG-A is identified as a novel pathogen of peanut root rot in China. Three highly effective antagonistic biocontrol strains were screened, providing scientific basis for disease epidemiology and management. These biocontrol strains demonstrate dual functionality in suppressing pathogen growth and enhancing plant biomass, offering sustainable control strategies.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40985394, DOI: 10.3390/jof11070472
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