Actinomyces biopesticide for control of plant pathogenic ascomycetes

Overview

This solution introduces a novel Actinomyces strain (BMP 4505) that demonstrates exceptional inhibitory activity against three of the most economically damaging plant pathogenic fungi: Fusarium, Alternaria, and Botrytis. These pathogens cause significant pre- and post-harvest losses across a wide range of vegetable and fruit crops. The discovery emerged from over 30 years of plant pathology research, during which thousands of fungal cultures were observed. The BMP 4505 strain stands out for the completeness and breadth of its antifungal activity, inhibiting not just one but three major fungal genera.

The proposed biopesticide aims to provide growers with a biological alternative or complement to conventional fungicides, supporting integrated pest management programs and addressing growing demand for reduced synthetic chemical inputs in agriculture.

Technical specifications

• Organism: Actinomyces strain BMP 4505, a novel bacterial isolate with potent antifungal properties
• Target pathogens: Fusarium spp., Alternaria spp., and Botrytis spp., three genera within the Ascomycetes responsible for major crop diseases worldwide
• Observed activity: Complete in vitro growth inhibition of all three fungal genera, an unusually broad-spectrum effect noted as unprecedented in the principal investigator's three decades of mycology experience
• Intended application: Pre- and post-harvest treatment of plant surfaces to protect against fungal infection
• Target crops: Vegetables susceptible to decay by these pathogens, including carrot, lettuce, and tomato

Technology readiness level

The technology is currently at an early discovery stage (TRL 2-3). The antifungal activity of BMP 4505 has been demonstrated and replicated in laboratory (in vitro) settings only. Greenhouse validation is planned as the next step, involving inoculation of seedlings at the 4-5 leaf stage, challenge with pathogenic fungi at varying intervals, and evaluation under high-humidity conditions to encourage disease development. Both foliar and soil inoculation trials are planned. Field deployment and commercial formulation development have not yet begun.