Biological control solutions for major fungal diseases in commercial button mushroom production
Research program developing biocontrol products using antagonistic bacteria and fungi to combat major fungal pathogens threatening South African button mushroom production. Addresses limited chemical control options and resistance risks by isolating, screening, and validating microorganisms effective against Trichoderma aggressivum, Cladobotryum spp., Lecanicillium spp., and Mycogone spp.
Overview
This research program addresses a critical challenge in South African commercial button mushroom production: fungal and bacterial diseases that currently rely on very few chemical control products, creating significant resistance risk. The program develops biological control alternatives using antagonistic microorganisms to suppress major fungal pathogens including Trichoderma aggressivum, Cladobotryum spp., Lecanicillium spp., and Mycogone spp. Prior work has already demonstrated that select bacteria and yeasts exhibit antagonistic effects against these pathogens, establishing a strong foundation for product development. The initiative aims to deliver commercial biocontrol products that reduce dependence on limited chemical fungicides while supporting sustainable mushroom cultivation.
Technical specifications
Research approach:
- Reviving and screening existing culture collection isolates with demonstrated antagonistic properties
- Targeted sample collection to expand the pool of candidate biocontrol microorganisms
- Systematic screening of isolates against the four major fungal pathogens of button mushrooms
- Mushroom growing trials to evaluate efficacy under production-relevant conditions
- Selection of top-performing antagonistic isolates for downstream biocontrol product development
Target pathogens:
- Trichoderma aggressivum (green mould)
- Cladobotryum spp. (cobweb disease)
- Lecanicillium spp.
- Mycogone spp. (wet bubble disease)
Value proposition for industry partners:
- Reduced reliance on limited chemical fungicide options
- Mitigation of fungicide resistance development risk
- Sustainable disease management aligned with integrated pest management practices
Technology readiness level
The program is currently at an early-to-mid stage of development. Prior laboratory validation has confirmed antagonistic activity of select bacteria and yeasts against Trichoderma aggressivum and Cladobotryum spp., with supporting evidence reported in the broader scientific literature. The next phase involves expanded isolate screening, mushroom growing trials, and performance-based selection of candidate isolates for biocontrol product formulation. Commercial product development and regulatory registration would follow successful trial outcomes.
About University of Pretoria
UP is a comprehensive, multi‑campus public research university in Pretoria with a broad disciplinary base and significant postgraduate activity. Industry engages through co‑located, large‑scale labs at the Engineering 4.0 campus—home to national reference and training facilities developed with SANRAL and partners—and through clinical pathways via Steve Biko Academic Hospital. For streamlined collaboration, Enterprises University of Pretoria serves as a single contracting gateway for contract research and consulting, while a dedicated Technology Transfer Office manages IP and licensing. Research is supported by South Africa’s National Research Foundation and the South African Medical Research Council, alongside international sponsors. Startup creation is enabled by the on‑campus TuksNovation incubator.
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