Endophytic bacilli from soybean roots for biocontrol of phytonematodes

Overview

This project investigates whether soybean roots host endophytic bacteria capable of protecting the plant from phytonematode attacks. The research team will isolate bacteria from soybean crops across diverse agro-ecological regions of Argentina and screen them for nematicidal activity. Isolates that demonstrate activity against free-living nematodes will advance to testing against phytonematodes, the actual crop pathogens. The goal is to identify native bacterial candidates with potential as biocontrol agents for soybean producers facing nematode-related yield losses.

Technical specifications

• Isolation: Endophytic bacteria will be isolated from soybean roots collected across multiple agro-ecological regions of Argentina, capturing natural microbial diversity.
• Primary screening: All isolated endophytic bacteria will be tested against the free-living nematode Panagrellus redivivus using an established bioassay developed by the research team.
• Secondary screening: Bacterial isolates that show activity against free-living nematodes will then be evaluated against phytonematodes, the target crop pathogens.
• Expertise applied: The laboratory brings prior experience in bacterial isolation, characterization, and selection for biotechnological properties, including nematicidal and insecticidal activities.
• Timeline: The full study is projected to take approximately one year to complete.

Technology readiness level

This is an early-stage discovery and validation effort. The screening bioassay using free-living nematodes is already established in the laboratory. The project is seeking funding to support field collection trips and laboratory supplies needed to carry out the isolation and screening work. No biocontrol product has yet been developed; the current focus is on identifying and validating candidate bacterial strains with nematicidal properties.