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Microsclerotia formation of the biocontrol fungus Cordyceps javanica IF-1106 and evaluation of its stress tolerance and pathogenicity

Summary

Researchers studied a fungus called Cordyceps javanica that can be used to control harmful soil nematodes that damage crop roots. The fungus produces special dormant structures called microsclerotia that can survive extreme heat and UV radiation for extended periods. These microsclerotia showed excellent effectiveness at controlling root-knot nematodes on cucumber plants while also promoting plant growth, making them a promising natural alternative to chemical pesticides.

Background

Cordyceps javanica is an entomopathogenic fungus with broad host range potential for biocontrol applications. The fungus produces microsclerotia in liquid media, which are dormant structures that offer advantages for pest control due to their environmental persistence and ability to produce infective conidia under adverse conditions.

Objective

This study examined the formation process of microsclerotia in C. javanica IF-1106, characterized their surface properties, evaluated stress tolerance to heat and UV radiation, assessed storage stability, and determined efficacy against root-knot nematodes and effects on cucumber plant growth.

Results

Microsclerotia formed within 24-48 hours and were highly hydrophobic with contact angles of 83.07°. They exhibited 100% survival at 55°C for 3 hours and under 3 J cm⁻² UV-B radiation. After 1 year storage at various temperatures (25°C, 4°C, −20°C, −80°C), all microsclerotia germinated with spore yields exceeding 4×10⁹ spores g⁻¹. Microsclerotia showed 92.6% control efficiency against root-knot nematodes and promoted cucumber plant growth.

Conclusion

C. javanica IF-1106 microsclerotia demonstrate excellent stress tolerance, storage stability, and efficacy against root-knot nematodes, making them suitable for development as biocontrol agents for soil-borne pests. Their superior environmental persistence and ability to form infective structures in situ provide advantages over traditional conidia-based formulations for agricultural applications.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 40365065, DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1583850
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