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Streptomyces-Based Bioformulation to Control Wilt of Morchella sextelata Caused by Pestalotiopsis trachicarpicola

Summary

Researchers isolated two beneficial bacteria strains (Streptomyces) from soil around morel mushrooms that can effectively fight a fungal disease causing morel wilting. These bacteria produce natural compounds that kill the disease-causing fungus while also promoting healthier mushroom growth. When used in field tests, these bacterial treatments reduced disease and increased morel yield by nearly 30% compared to untreated crops, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical fungicides.

Background

Morchella sextelata is a commercially valuable fungal species affected by various diseases, particularly wilt disease caused by Pestalotiopsis trachicarpicola, which has caused severe outbreaks with incidence rates reaching 80% in Chinese cultivation bases. Actinomycetes, particularly Streptomyces species, are known producers of antimicrobial secondary metabolites with potential biocontrol applications.

Objective

To isolate and characterize Streptomyces strains from M. sextelata rhizosphere soil that exhibit antagonistic activity against P. trachicarpicola, and to evaluate their biocontrol efficacy in reducing disease incidence and promoting yield in field conditions.

Results

Both Streptomyces sp. F16 and F19 demonstrated potent antifungal activity through volatile compounds and soluble antimicrobial substances, with F16 achieving 66.93% conidial germination inhibition at 50× dilution. Field experiments showed that fermentation filtrate applications significantly reduced disease incidence and increased yields to 299.6 g/m² (F16) and 277.65 g/m² (F19), substantially exceeding control yields of 231 g/m².

Conclusion

Streptomyces-based bioformulation represents an effective and sustainable strategy for controlling P. trachicarpicola wilt disease in M. sextelata cultivation while simultaneously promoting fruit yield. These findings support the integration of Streptomyces biocontrol agents into morel crop management systems for improved disease resistance and productivity.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40558963, DOI: 10.3390/jof11060452
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