Identification of two endophytic fungi that control Septoria tritici blotch in the field, using a structured screening approach

Publication date: Available online 24 October 2019Source: Biological ControlAuthor(s): Meike A.C. Latz, Birgit Jensen, David B. Collinge, Hans Jørgen Lyngs JørgensenAbstractWe applied a structured screening approach to identify biocontrol agents (BCAs) against the wheat disease Septoria tritici blotch (STB) caused by Zymoseptoria tritici, with potential for commercial use. Since a limitation of many screening programmes is that BCAs with an effect in vitro do not necessarily show an effect in planta, we relied on in planta screening and aimed to optimise host and environmental compatibility of the BCAs by isolating endophytic fungi from the plant, tissue and environment of future application. Furthermore, in planta screening was complemented by a small-scale field experiment and in vitro characterisation (temperature requirements, sporulation potential and fungicide tolerance) as well as a literature search, to select the most promising isolates for further work.The screening approach resulted in identification of two promising fungal strains that significantly and reliably reduced STB in the highly susceptible wheat cultivar Sevin by up to 75% under controlled conditions. Significant reductions of disease were also observed under field conditions in cv. Mariboss. While further validation in the field is required, the two endophyte isolates, Penicillium olsonii ML37 and Acremonium alternatum ML38, have the potential for implementation in integrated disease management strate...
Source: Biological Control - Category: Biology Source Type: research