Suppression of Brassica fungal pathogens by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens

Certain microorganisms improve plant protection against pathogens and can thus replace chemical pesticides. In this study Asari et al. show that Bacillus amyloliquefaciens UCMB5113 lipopeptides antagonise fungal pathogens that Brassica plants, and also improve disease management of Arabidopsis thaliana when added to plants.

The suppression of fungal growth on plants seems to involve jasmonic acid dependent responses. Asari et al. found a novel linear form of fengycin lipopeptide. A synthetic peptide mimic displayed antagonistic fungal growth. The ability of Bacillus UCMB5113 to stimulate growth and counteract pathogens using both direct and indirect modes of action provides a promising tool for sustainable crop production.