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Pathogen Identification, Antagonistic Microbe Screening, and Biocontrol Strategies for Aconitum carmichaelii Root Rot

Summary

Aconitum carmichaelii is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant that has become increasingly prone to root rot disease due to continuous farming in Yunnan. Researchers identified multiple disease-causing pathogens and discovered that beneficial bacteria called Bacillus can both fight these pathogens and improve plant health. One particularly effective strain enhanced soil quality and increased the plant’s natural defenses, achieving over 50% disease control without chemical pesticides.

Background

Aconitum carmichaelii is a valuable medicinal plant used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Continuous monocropping in western Yunnan has led to severe soil degradation and increased root rot disease incidence, but the microbial ecology underlying this pathology remains poorly understood.

Objective

To identify pathogenic determinants and beneficial antagonistic microorganisms associated with A. carmichaelii root rot through comprehensive microbiome analysis, and to develop sustainable biocontrol strategies using plant growth-promoting bacteria.

Results

Fifteen pathogenic strains spanning eight species across four genera were identified, including Fusarium solani, F. avenaceum, Mucor species, Serratia species, and Clonostachys rosea. Eight beneficial Bacillus and Paenibacillus strains were isolated with PGP and antagonistic capacities. Strain DX3 (B. amyloliquefaciens) demonstrated superior performance, achieving over 50% disease suppression while enhancing soil nutrient cycling and plant defense-related enzyme activities.

Conclusion

The study revealed that A. carmichaelii root rot involves multiple pathogens and is associated with altered rhizosphere microbiota and soil physicochemical properties. Bacillus spp., particularly DX3, represent promising multifunctional microbial resources for sustainable disease management through both direct pathogen antagonism and indirect promotion of plant health.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/microorganisms13092202, PMID: 41011533
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