Root Rot Disease Biocontrol and Microbiome Community Modulation by Streptomyces Strains in Soybean

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Plant Pathology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Chemical fungicides face challenges due to emerging pathogen resistance.
• Biocontrol agents, particularly from the genus Streptomyces, offer sustainable solutions for plant disease management.
• Understanding the impact of beneficial microbes on host microbiota is crucial for effective biocontrol.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Streptomyces globisporus SP6C4 and Streptomyces bacillaris S8 in controlling soybean root rot.
• To assess the influence of these Streptomyces strains on soybean endogenous microbiota.
• To explore novel biocontrol strategies for sustainable agriculture.

Main Methods:

• Isolation and characterization of Streptomyces bacillaris S8 from turfgrass and Streptomyces globisporus SP6C4 from strawberry pollen.
• In vitro assessment of antifungal activity against soybean root rot pathogens (Fusarium spp.).
• Analysis of microbial community shifts in soybean plants treated with the selected Streptomyces strains.

Main Results:

• Both S. globisporus SP6C4 and S. bacillaris S8 exhibited antifungal activity against soybean root rot pathogens, with SP6C4 showing greater efficacy.
• S. globisporus SP6C4 acted as a hub-taxa in early-stage microbial communities, while S. bacillaris S8 functioned as a modulator.
• The application of these strains influenced the soybean plant microbiota, suggesting potential for microbiome engineering.

Conclusions:

• Streptomyces globisporus SP6C4 and Streptomyces bacillaris S8 are effective biocontrol agents against soybean root rot.
• These strains can modify plant-associated microbial communities, offering new avenues for crop microbiome research.
• The findings support the use of Streptomyces as a sustainable approach to manage soybean diseases and enhance crop health.