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Polyphasic approach to the selection of Esteya isolates for the control of the pinewood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus

  • 0Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e Veterinária (INIAV, I.P.), Av. da República, 2780-159, Oeiras, Portugal; Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development (MED) & Global Change and Sustainability Institute (CHANGE), Institute for Advanced Studies and Research, University of Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Apartado 94, 7006-554, Évora, Portugal.
Fungal Biology +

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December 6, 2024

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December 6, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Esteya fungi show potential for controlling the pinewood nematode, a major threat to pine forests. Prophylactic application of Esteya spp. offers bioprotection against pine wilt disease and associated fungal pathogens.

Area Of Science

  • Plant Pathology
  • Forest Entomology
  • Microbial Ecology

Background

  • Pine wilt disease, caused by the pinewood nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus), poses a significant threat to global pine forests.
  • Current management strategies for pine wilt disease are logistically challenging, ecologically concerning, and often ineffective.
  • There is a growing need for sustainable biosolutions, particularly microbial antagonists, for nematode control.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To conduct an integrative characterization of Esteya vermicola and Esteya floridanum isolates.
  • To evaluate their potential as biocontrol agents against the pinewood nematode.
  • To provide insights into selecting effective isolates for managing pine wilt disease.

Main Methods

  • Isolates of Esteya spp. were characterized using biological, biochemical, and molecular methods.
  • Dual culture assays were performed to assess competitive interactions with ophiostomatoid fungi.
  • In vitro experiments evaluated the efficacy of Esteya spp. in suppressing the pinewood nematode.

Main Results

  • Esteya spp. demonstrated the ability to compete with ophiostomatoid fungi (Leptographium terebrantis, Ophiostoma ips) in vitro.
  • Esteya vermicola exhibited a broader carbon source metabolism compared to Esteya floridanum.
  • Both Esteya spp. were equally effective in suppressing Bursaphelenchus xylophilus in vitro.

Conclusions

  • Esteya spp. are promising fungal biocontrol agents for the pinewood nematode.
  • Understanding fungal interactions and metabolic capabilities is crucial for selecting effective biocontrol agents.
  • Prophylactic application of Esteya spp. may enhance bioprotection against pine wilt disease and associated pathogens.

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