In a groundbreaking study, researchers have unveiled a promising biocontrol agent that could revolutionize how farmers tackle two of sweet potato’s most notorious foes: Fusarium oxysporum and Ceratocystis fimbriata. The root bacterium, Bacillus velezensis CMML21–47, was isolated and tested for its antifungal prowess, showing remarkable results that could spell relief for growers grappling with sweet potato wilt and black rot diseases.
Yoeng-Seok Yoon, the lead author from the Center for Industrialization of Agricultural and Livestock Microorganisms in Jeongeup, South Korea, and affiliated with the Food Safety and Processing Research Division at the National Institute of Fisheries Science in Busan, highlighted the significance of their findings. “Our research demonstrates that Bacillus velezensis CMML21–47 not only inhibits the growth of these pathogens but also has the potential to reshape disease management strategies in sweet potato cultivation,” Yoon stated.
Through a series of in vitro and field assays, the team confirmed the bacterium’s strong antagonistic activity. The full genome sequencing of B. velezensis CMML21–47 revealed multiple gene clusters responsible for antibiotic synthesis, pointing to its robust biocontrol capabilities. The researchers employed ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) to identify lipopeptides like fengycin, surfactin, and bacillomycin, which were found to effectively inhibit pathogen growth.
This discovery could not only lead to healthier crops but also reduce the dependency on chemical fungicides, which have long been a staple in agricultural practices. The implications are significant: farmers could see lower costs, improved yields, and a more sustainable approach to managing crop diseases. “By harnessing the power of naturally occurring bacteria, we can pave the way for eco-friendly farming solutions that benefit both the environment and agricultural productivity,” Yoon added.
With sweet potatoes being a vital crop in many regions, the commercial impact of this research could be profound. As growers seek innovative ways to enhance their resilience against diseases, the adoption of Bacillus velezensis CMML21–47 might just be the game-changer they need. This promising study published in ‘Biological Control’ (which translates to ‘Biological Control’) sets the stage for further developments in biocontrol technologies that could transform the agricultural landscape.
For more insights into this research and its implications for the agricultural sector, you can visit the Food Safety and Processing Research Division.