Muscodor spp. are fungal endophytes known for their ability to produce bioactive volatile organic compounds (VOCs) capable of controlling a broad range of plant pathogenic bacteria, fungi, nematodes, and insect pests. Depending on experimental conditions, different chemicals including small acids, alcohols, esters, ketones, hydrocarbons, and lipids have been detected as byproducts produced by various Muscodor species. Our quest for an environmental friendly biofumigant led to the selection of a unique M. albus strain SA-13 as a potential candidate to replace methyl bromide and other agricultural fumigants. The new endophytic fungus was recently isolated from honey mesquite (Prosopis grandulosa) and identified based on its ITS 5.8 S sequences. The microbe is most robust in the production of VOCs and showed greater inhibitory effects against a wide range of fungi and bacterial plant pathogens when compared to our other in-house Muscodor strains, including the formerly described M. albus strain CZ-620. GCMS analysis of the VOCs produced by SA-13 revealed the microbe produces similar classes of chemicals including small acids, alcohols, esters, ketones, and hydrocarbons as has been reported for other M. albus strains. However, through in-house and independent third party studies, we did not detect N-Methyl-N-Nitrosobutyramide, a nuisance compound that has been reported to be associated with CZ-620, as part of the VOCs profile produced by M. albus SA-13. The ability of M. albus SA-13 to produce VOCs with strong efficacy against a series of pathogens makes this isolate an ideal mycofumigant candidate for pest management and crop protection.

Analysis of VOCs produced by <i>Muscodor albus</i> SA-13 and its application for agricultural pest management

248th National Meeting (2014)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.

Analysis of VOCs produced by Muscodor albus SA-13 and its application for agricultural pest management