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Native Bacteria Are Effective Biocontrol Agents at a Wide Range of Temperatures of Neofusicoccum parvum, Associated with Botryosphaeria Dieback on Grapevine

Summary

Scientists discovered that native bacteria from Chile, particularly Pseudomonas strains, can effectively control a serious fungus that damages grapevines. These bacteria work across a range of temperatures and successfully reduced fungal growth both in laboratory tests and in actual vineyards. This discovery offers a natural, environmentally-friendly alternative to chemical fungicides for protecting grape crops.

Background

Botryosphaeria dieback, caused by Neofusicoccum parvum and related fungi, represents a significant threat to viticulture worldwide. Chemical fungicide control has limitations due to environmental and health concerns, making biocontrol using beneficial microorganisms an attractive sustainable alternative.

Objective

To evaluate the biocontrol potential of Chilean native bacteria against N. parvum at various temperatures through in vitro, in vivo, and in situ assays. The study aimed to identify effective bacterial strains that could manage grapevine trunk diseases under diverse environmental conditions.

Results

Four Pseudomonas strains showed >30% mycelial growth inhibition. Strains AMCR2b and GcR15a achieved up to 50% inhibition in agar diffusion tests and 46% in double-plate assays. In vivo testing showed 17-90% mycelial growth inhibition across different grapevine ages, with younger vines more susceptible to N. parvum. Field trials demonstrated 26-89% fungal inhibition in Cabernet Sauvignon and 29-80% in Sauvignon Blanc.

Conclusion

Pseudomonas sp. strains AMCR2b and GcR15a demonstrated significant biocontrol efficacy against N. parvum across a wide range of temperatures. These native psychrotolerant bacteria show promising potential as sustainable biocontrol agents for managing grapevine trunk diseases and reducing reliance on chemical fungicides.
  • Published in:Plants (Basel),
  • Study Type:In vitro/In vivo/In situ Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40219111, PMCID: PMC11990564
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