Scientists discovered 11 new species of Trichoderma fungi in China that were isolated from soil and grass plants. These fungi are important because they can produce useful compounds, help control plant diseases, and promote plant growth. The researchers used genetic analysis and microscopy to identify and describe these new species, expanding our knowledge of fungal diversity in China.
Scientists isolated a beneficial bacterium called Streptomyces roietensis from soil that effectively fights gray mold, a serious fungal disease affecting crops worldwide. They identified the strain and optimized growing conditions to maximize production of antifungal compounds, achieving 93% effectiveness against gray mold. This discovery offers a natural, environmentally-friendly alternative to chemical fungicides for protecting agricultural crops, potentially reducing crop losses and environmental pollution.
Fungi release various volatile compounds (VOCs) that have different effects on organisms and the environment. The most notable fungal VOC is 1-octen-3-ol, also called mushroom alcohol, which gives mushrooms their distinctive smell. This compound can inhibit fungal growth, repel insects, and help control plant diseases, but at high concentrations it may be toxic to humans and trigger immune responses. Scientists use fruit flies as a model to study how these fungal compounds affect health.
Scientists discovered a new type of fungus called Hypoxylon saxatilis that produces a natural compound called tetrahydrofuran. This compound effectively kills the bacteria that cause tomato plants to wilt and die. When used on tomato plants in the greenhouse, this fungal extract reduced disease severity by over 83%, offering a safer, environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides for protecting crops.
Researchers studied how a beneficial fungus called Epicoccum nigrum can fight two harmful fungi that damage olive trees. Using advanced chemical analysis called NMR spectroscopy, they discovered that when the beneficial fungus encounters disease-causing pathogens, it changes its metabolism and produces compounds that stress the harmful fungi. This study suggests that Epicoccum nigrum could be a natural, environmentally-friendly alternative to chemical fungicides for protecting olive crops.
Trichoderma guizhouense is a fungus used to protect plants from harmful pathogens. Researchers discovered that a special protein called TgZct4 acts like a master switch that activates the fungus’s defense system against harmful reactive oxygen molecules. When the fungus encounters stress, TgZct4 turns on genes that produce protective enzymes called catalases and superoxide dismutases, helping the fungus survive. This discovery could help scientists create even more effective biological pest control products.
Scientists discovered a beneficial bacteria called Bacillus velezensis that can effectively prevent soft rot disease in kiwifruit, which causes serious damage during storage. The bacteria works by producing natural antimicrobial compounds that damage the fungal pathogen’s cell walls and membranes, stopping it from growing. This biocontrol approach offers an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical fungicides, reducing pesticide residues while maintaining fruit quality and safety.