From predator to protector: Myxococcus fulvus WCH05 emerges as a potent biocontrol agent for fire blight

Jian Han ^1,2, Zhiming Dong ^1,2, Wenbo Ji ^1,2

⁰Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agronomy, Xinjiang Agriculture University/Key Laboratory of the Pest Monitoring and Safety Control of Crops and Forests of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, China.

Frontiers in Microbiology +

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April 23, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

A novel Myxococcus fulvus WCH05 strain shows strong potential for biocontrol against Erwinia amylovora, the cause of fire blight. This bacterium effectively reduces disease in pear plants through predation and enzyme secretion, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical treatments.

Area Of Science

Agricultural Science
Microbiology
Biotechnology

Background

Fire blight, caused by Erwinia amylovora, is a major threat to global pome fruit production.
Current control methods face challenges, necessitating sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives.
Myxobacteria are recognized for their biocontrol potential due to predatory and enzymatic activities.

Purpose Of The Study

To evaluate the biocontrol efficacy of a novel Myxococcus fulvus WCH05 strain against Erwinia amylovora.
To investigate the mechanisms underlying the biocontrol activity of M. fulvus WCH05.

Main Methods

In vitro plate predation assays against E. amylovora and other plant pathogens.
Detached pear inflorescence assays to assess efficacy against blossom blight.
Greenhouse trials on young pear seedlings to evaluate protective and curative effects.
Analysis of biocontrol mechanisms, including cell contact and extracellular enzyme activity.

Main Results

M. fulvus WCH05 demonstrated strong predation against E. amylovora and broad-spectrum activity against other bacteria.
Pre-treatment with WCH05 significantly reduced fire blight incidence in pear inflorescences (76.02% efficacy).
Greenhouse trials showed effective reduction in wilting and disease index, with protective (73.68%) and curative (68.66%) control.
Biocontrol activity involves direct contact and secreted enzymes, including peptidases, lipases, and glycosidases.

Conclusions

Myxococcus fulvus WCH05 is a promising biocontrol agent against fire blight.
The strain's efficacy is attributed to its predatory capabilities and a suite of lytic extracellular enzymes.
This study supports the development of M. fulvus WCH05 for sustainable fire blight management in pome fruit orchards.

Keywords:

Erwinia amylovora Myxococcus fulvus WCH05 biocontrol extracellular proteins fire blight predation