Adaptation of plant protection technology considering fungalbacterial associations

Abstract

Plant infections are often caused by complexes of microorganisms that may include both fungal and bacterial species. In some cases, a symbiotic relationship between fungi and bacteria is observed, which makes a significant contribution to the development of pathogenesis. The work analyzes the phytopathogenic potential of bacteria associated with fungi. Fungal cultures that did not have visible (including microscopy) symptoms of bacterial damage were selected for study. Using PCR with primers for bacterial mitochondrial genes followed by sequencing of amplicons in such fungal cultures, the presence of bacteria was established. Analysis of sequencing data showed that among the bacteria associated with fungi there were species related to known phytopathogenic bacteria that cause diseases of crops. The results obtained show the need to adjust plant protection measures. Most chemical fungicides are ineffective against bacteria. Protection schemes should include biological, biorational and chemical agents that can simultaneously control the development of fungi and bacteria. Crop rotations should be designed to avoid alternating crops susceptible to the same bacteria. Another important element of plant protection is the removal or destruction of plant residues.

Keywords

• phytopathogens
• phytopathology
• bacterial plant diseases
• fungal-bacterial interactions
• fungal-bacterial endosymbiosis