Mechanisms and improved biocontrol of the root-knot nematodes by Trichoderma spp.

Y. Spiegel, E. Sharon, I. Chet

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

20 Scopus citations

Abstract

Comprehensive studies in our laboratory revealed the nematicidal potential of waste products from crustacean shells, or other proteinaceous compounds, for controlling species of several plant-parasitic nematodes. The bacteria Telluria chitinolytica sp. nov, and Bacillus cereus, which were isolated, grown and identified in our laboratory, appeared to have potential as bioagents to control the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne javanica. Intensive studies of the mode of action of these bacteria were carried out. The fungus Trichoderma exhibits biocontrol activity against the root-knot nematode M. javanica. Direct fungal parasitism is one of various possible mechanisms by which the fungus can act against the nematode. A constitutive GFP (green fluorescent protein)- transformant of T. asperellum was used to observe the fungal parasitism on nematode eggs and juveniles, using laser scanning confocal microscopy. The involvement of lytic enzymes in the process was demonstrated using inductive GFP-fungal transformants carrying a fusion of the proteinase or chitinase promoters with the gfp gene. These enzyme genes turned on during the interaction between the fungus and the nematodes. The direct fungal parasitism process on the nematode could be improved, in vitro, by using antibodies that bound to the surface of M. javanica J2 and eggs. The presence of these antibodies enhanced the attachment of the spores to the nematodes. This resulted in a significant enhancement of fungal parasitism on the nematodes.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationVI International Symposium on Chemical and non-Chemical Soil and Substrate Disinfestation - SD2004
PublisherInternational Society for Horticultural Science
Pages225-228
Number of pages4
ISBN (Print)9789066052185
DOIs
StatePublished - 31 Dec 2005
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameActa Horticulturae
Volume698
ISSN (Print)0567-7572

Keywords

  • Biological control
  • Meloidogyne javanica
  • Root-knot nematode
  • Trichoderma spp

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