Bacillus-based biosolutions for controlling fungal pathogens

Overview

Bacillus velezensis RC218 is a biological control strain developed to combat the fungal pathogens Fusarium graminearum on wheat and Fusarium oxysporum on tomatoes. This innovative solution leverages the natural competitive abilities of the Bacillus strain to secure space and nutrients at the root level, effectively suppressing pathogen growth. Additionally, the strain produces Ericin S, a potent antibiotic effective against Gram-positive bacteria, enhancing its biocontrol capabilities. The solution has undergone extensive research and development, leading to its registration and commercialization as a biostimulant and biocontrol agent in Argentina.

Technical specifications

• Biocontrol Mechanism: Utilizes competition for space and nutrients at the root level, and antibiotic production.
• Active Compounds: Ericin S and characterized Lypopeptides (LPs), demonstrated effectiveness in foliar applications against F. graminearum.
• Induced Systemic Resistance (ISR): Activation via jasmonic and salicylic acid pathways.
• Development: More than 15 years of research, with full genome sequencing published.

Technology readiness level

This biocontrol solution has reached Technology Readiness Level 9, having been approved and commercialized in Argentina. Future validation includes in vitro evaluations, greenhouse trials, and field experiments to further confirm efficacy under natural and semi-controlled conditions.