Integrated assays with in silico analyses indicated the biocontrol potential of Bacillus velezensis BJ1 against fungal phytopathogens.

Summary

This study characterised Bacillus velezensis BJ1, a locally isolated bacterial strain, for biocontrol potential against fungal phytopathogens of horticultural crops. The strain demonstrated broad-spectrum antagonistic activity in vitro (inhibition rates 53.76–98.45% against 59 fungal isolates), achieved high control efficiencies (87.87% therapeutic, 68.95% preventive) against Botrytis cinerea in detached leaf assays, and showed 80.48% disease inhibition in greenhouse trials when formulated as a water-dispersible granule. Genome mining revealed 13 biosynthetic gene clusters encoding antimicrobial compounds, providing a genetic basis for the strain's biocontrol efficacy and supporting its development as a sustainable disease management product.

Regional applicability

The findings are potentially relevant to United Kingdom horticulture, where fungal pathogens such as Botrytis cinerea cause significant crop losses. However, the study does not specify the geographic origin of the BJ1 strain or test performance under UK climatic conditions; transferability would depend on environmental adaptation trials and regulatory approval for biological pesticide use under UK and EU frameworks.

Key measures

Inhibition rates (%) against 59 fungal isolates in dual culture assays; disease control efficiency (%) in detached leaf assays for Botrytis cinerea; disease inhibition rate (%) under greenhouse conditions; biosynthetic gene cluster identification

Outcomes reported

The study evaluated the biocontrol potential of Bacillus velezensis BJ1 against fungal phytopathogens affecting fruit and vegetable crops using in vitro, in vivo, and in planta assays. Genome mining identified 13 biosynthetic gene clusters encoding antimicrobial compounds, and a formulated product achieved 80.48% disease inhibition under greenhouse conditions.

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