biocontrol – Page 4

Prevalence of toxigenic fungi and mycotoxins in Arabic coffee (Coffea arabica): Protective role of traditional coffee roasting, brewing and bacterial volatiles

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This study examined toxin-producing fungi and harmful mycotoxins found in coffee sold in Qatar markets. Researchers tested whether traditional coffee roasting and brewing methods reduce these harmful compounds, and also tested a beneficial bacterium that produces antifungal compounds. They found that higher roasting temperatures and brewing significantly reduced the dangerous toxins, and the bacterial volatiles completely stopped fungal growth on coffee beans, offering a natural alternative to chemical fungicides.

Providing a toolbox for genomic engineering of Trichoderma aggressivum

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Scientists have created a set of tools to genetically engineer Trichoderma aggressivum, a fungus that causes green mold disease in cultivated mushrooms but can also be used beneficially. The study provides step-by-step methods for transforming this fungus using both traditional plasmid methods and modern CRISPR gene-editing technology. These tools will help researchers understand how the fungus works and potentially harness its beneficial properties for agriculture.

Antifungal Activity of Industrial Bacillus Strains against Mycogone perniciosa, the Causative Agent of Wet Bubble Disease in White Button Mushrooms

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Researchers tested two special bacteria strains (Bacillus subtilis B-10 and M-22) to protect white button mushrooms from wet bubble disease, a serious fungal infection that can destroy entire crops. When applied to mushroom growing beds, both bacteria effectively prevented the disease-causing fungus from developing, with success rates between 50-99% depending on application method. This offers mushroom farmers a natural, chemical-free alternative to synthetic fungicides for protecting their crops.

Enhancement of Mycelial Growth and Antifungal Activity by Combining Fermentation Optimization and Genetic Engineering in Streptomyces pratensis S10

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Scientists improved a soil bacterium called Streptomyces pratensis S10 that fights a serious wheat disease called Fusarium head blight. They used two strategies: first, they optimized the growth medium using statistical methods to produce more bacteria with stronger antifungal powers, and second, they used genetic engineering to remove a gene that was limiting its disease-fighting ability. The result was a bacteria strain that is much more effective at controlling this crop disease.

Tackling Conifer Needle Cast and Ash Dieback with Host-Derived Microbial Antagonists Exhibiting Plant Growth-Promoting Traits

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Scientists discovered beneficial bacteria living on ash and pine trees that can fight two major forest diseases: ash dieback and needle cast. These bacteria not only kill the harmful fungi but also help trees grow stronger by improving nutrient absorption. This research offers promise for protecting European forests without relying on chemical fungicides, creating a more natural and sustainable approach to forest health.

Complete genome analysis and antimicrobial mechanism of Bacillus velezensis GX0002980 reveals its biocontrol potential against mango anthracnose disease

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Researchers found a beneficial bacterium called Bacillus velezensis that can effectively fight the fungus causing brown spots on mangoes. The bacterium produces natural antibiotic compounds that kill the disease-causing fungus and can be sprayed on mangoes to keep them fresh longer during storage. This discovery offers a safer, eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemical fungicides for protecting the mango harvest.

Trichoderma brevicompactum 6311: Prevention and Control of Phytophthora capsici and Its Growth-Promoting Effect

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Researchers isolated a beneficial fungus called Trichoderma brevicompactum from pepper plant soil that can fight a serious disease affecting peppers worldwide. This fungus not only kills the disease-causing pathogen but also helps pepper plants grow better. The study shows this fungus works through multiple mechanisms including wrapping around harmful fungi and producing growth-promoting compounds. This offers farmers an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides for protecting their pepper crops.

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

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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.

Proteases from Pleurotus spp.: Properties, Production and Biotechnological Applications

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Oyster and king oyster mushrooms produce powerful enzymes called proteases that can break down proteins. These enzymes have multiple uses including fighting parasitic infections in animals and plants, making cheese, dissolving blood clots, and being used in detergents and cosmetics. The mushrooms can be grown on agricultural waste, making this a sustainable and cost-effective way to produce these valuable enzymes.

Carbon and Nitrogen Sources Influence Parasitic Responsiveness in Trichoderma atroviride NI-1

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Scientists studied a beneficial fungus called Trichoderma atroviride that kills crop-damaging pathogens. They discovered that the type and quality of nutrients available directly affects how aggressive this fungus becomes. When provided with better nutrients like glucose and ammonia, the fungus produces more powerful enzymes to attack and destroy its prey. Remarkably, this fungus can even tell the difference between different types of pathogens and adjusts its attack strategy accordingly, making it a promising candidate for environmentally-friendly crop protection.

Research Keyword: biocontrol