Modulation of Growth and Mycotoxigenic Potential of Pineapple Fruitlet Core Rot Pathogens during In Vitro...

Area of Science:

• Plant Pathology
• Mycology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Pineapple Fruitlet Core Rot (FCR) is a complex fungal disease.
• New pathogens like Fusarium proliferatum, Fusarium oxysporum, and Talaromyces stollii have been identified alongside Fusarium ananatum.
• The co-existence of healthy and diseased fruitlets suggests complex pathogen interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the interactions between the four main FCR pathogens.
• To understand the role of chemical communication in FCR pathogenesis.
• To determine the impact of these interactions on fungal growth and mycotoxin production.

Main Methods:

• In vitro pairwise co-culture bioassays were conducted.
• Fungal growth and mycotoxin production were monitored over 10 days.
• Visual indicators of antagonism, such as red pigmentation, were observed.

Main Results:

• Talaromyces stollii demonstrated antagonism against Fusarium species, reducing Fusarium proliferatum growth by 22%.
• Beauvericin content decreased significantly, while fumonisin concentrations increased up to 7-fold during cross-challenges.
• Antagonism was visually indicated by red pigment and exudate formation.

Conclusions:

• Secondary metabolites play a crucial role in shaping the fungal community within pineapple fruitlets.
• These interactions influence pathogen virulence and contribute to the establishment of FCR.
• Understanding these dynamics is key to managing pineapple fruit rot.