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Isolation and identification of antagonistic fungi for biocontrol of Impatiens hawkeri leaf spot disease and their growth-promoting potential

Summary

Researchers discovered a beneficial fungus called Fusarium solani that prevents leaf spot disease in ornamental Impatiens hawkeri plants. This fungus not only fights the disease-causing pathogen but also promotes seed germination and plant growth. The findings suggest this fungus could replace harmful chemical pesticides while simultaneously acting as a natural fertilizer, benefiting both plant health and the environment.

Background

Impatiens hawkeri is an ornamental plant frequently afflicted with leaf spot disease caused by Stagonosporopsis cucurbitacearum. Chemical fungicides are commonly used but cause environmental pollution and pathogen resistance. Endophytic fungi represent a promising alternative for biological control.

Objective

To isolate and identify antagonistic fungi from Quercus spinosa tissues that can inhibit S. cucurbitacearum and evaluate their growth-promoting properties for potential use as biocontrol agents and fungal fertilizers.

Results

Strain CY12 showed the highest antifungal activity (68.13% inhibition rate) and was identified as Fusarium solani. CY12 produced multiple cell wall-degrading enzymes and exhibited phosphorus/potassium solubilization, nitrogen fixation, IAA production, and siderophore production. Pot experiments confirmed reduced leaf spot disease and increased seed germination from 93% to 98.33%.

Conclusion

Fusarium solani strain CY12 demonstrated strong antifungal and growth-promoting properties, effectively reducing I. hawkeri leaf spot disease and promoting seedling growth. These findings provide promising microbial resources for biological control and development of fungal fertilizers, though field application effects and action mechanisms require further exploration.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1584353, PMID: 40454363, PMCID: PMC12122435
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