biological control agent

Antifungal efficacy and mechanisms of Bacillus licheniformis BL06 against Ceratocystis fimbriata

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Researchers discovered that a beneficial bacterium called Bacillus licheniformis BL06 can effectively prevent sweet potato black rot, a fungal disease that causes major crop losses worldwide. When applied to sweet potatoes, this bacterium reduces disease damage by interfering with the fungus’s ability to grow, form spores, and survive. The study reveals that the bacterium works by disrupting the fungus’s cell structure and energy production, making it a promising natural alternative to chemical fungicides.

Deep cutaneous fungal infection in an immunocompetent individual caused by a biological pesticide: a rare case report

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A 66-year-old farmer developed a deep skin fungal infection from a biological pesticide she used for over 10 years. The pesticide contained a fungus called Purpureocillium lilacinum, which is normally harmless to healthy people but caused repeated skin lesions on her face and arms. She was successfully treated with antifungal medication (itraconazole) for three months, and her skin fully healed without returning. This is the first reported case showing that biological pesticides can pose health risks to workers who handle them regularly.

Identification and potential of the hyperparasite Acremonium persicinum as biocontrol agent against coffee leaf rust

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Coffee leaf rust is a major disease that destroys coffee crops and costs the global coffee industry billions of dollars annually. Researchers in China discovered that a fungus called Acremonium persicinum naturally parasitizes the rust-causing fungus and can prevent coffee leaves from being infected. When this beneficial fungus was applied to infected coffee leaves, it completely stopped the rust fungus from growing and spreading. This discovery offers farmers an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides for protecting their coffee crops.

Deep cutaneous fungal infection in an immunocompetent individual caused by a biological pesticide: a rare case report

mycolabadmin

A 66-year-old farmer developed recurring skin infections over 10 years from exposure to a biological pesticide containing a fungus called Purpureocillium lilacinum. Although this fungus is generally safe for healthy people, this case shows it can cause serious skin infections with prolonged exposure. The patient was successfully treated with antifungal medication over three months. This case highlights the importance of proper safety measures when working with biological pesticides.

Characterization of a bacterial strain T226 and its efficacy in controlling post-harvest citrus anthracnose

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Researchers identified a beneficial bacterium called Lysobacter enzymogenes (strain T226) that effectively prevents citrus fruit rot caused by anthracnose fungus. This bacterium was isolated from soil and showed stable antimicrobial properties even after repeated culture transfers. When applied to citrus fruits, it reduced disease incidence by over 61% under natural storage conditions, performing better than the chemical fungicide prochloraz, making it a promising eco-friendly alternative for protecting stored citrus.

Talaromyces pinophilus Strain HD25G2 as a Novel Biocontrol Agent of Fusarium culmorum, the Causal Agent of Root and Crown Rot of Soft Wheat

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A fungus called Talaromyces pinophilus shows promise as a natural pest controller against Fusarium culmorum, which damages wheat crops worldwide. When applied early to wheat seeds, this beneficial fungus produces enzymes that break down the harmful fungus’s cell walls, completely preventing damage and toxin contamination. However, timing is critical—if applied too late, it can paradoxically increase toxin production, suggesting it works best as a preventative treatment before infection occurs.

Characterization of a bacterial strain T226 and its efficacy in controlling post-harvest citrus anthracnose

mycolabadmin

Scientists discovered a beneficial bacterium called Lysobacter enzymogenes (strain T226) that effectively controls anthracnose, a fungal disease affecting citrus fruits after harvest. This bacterium was isolated from soil and shows strong ability to inhibit the disease-causing fungus while remaining stable over time. The research demonstrates that this biological control agent could be a promising eco-friendly alternative to chemical fungicides for protecting stored citrus fruits.

Identification and potential of the hyperparasite Acremonium persicinum as biocontrol agent against coffee leaf rust

mycolabadmin

Coffee leaf rust is a major disease threatening coffee production worldwide. Researchers in China identified a naturally occurring fungus called Acremonium persicinum that parasitizes the rust fungus, effectively killing it. This biocontrol agent showed 91% inhibition of rust spore germination and completely prevented rust infection when applied together with the rust, offering a promising chemical-free solution for protecting coffee crops.

Research Keyword: biological control agent