Pseudomonas plecoglossicida (NR_114226) as a novel biocontrol agent against Fusarium crown rot of wheat

Fusarium crown rot (FCR) poses a significant threat to wheat crops, causing substantial grain loss and mycotoxin contamination. While chemical fungicides have been effective in controlling this disease, the need for environmentally friendly alternatives is paramount due to concerns about human health and fungicide resistance. This study delves into the efficacy of Pseudomonas plecoglossicida (NR_114226) as a plant growth-promoting and biocontrol agent against Fusarium graminearum (ON685926) and Fusarium pseudograminearum (ON687723). Greenhouse experiments demonstrated a significant reduction in disease severity by 66.06% through seed treatment with this rhizobacterial strain in soil already infested with fungal pathogens. Moreover, significant growth enhancement occurred in F. pseudograminearum-infected seedlings treated with P. plecoglossicida (F4 + P57), increasing plant height from 13.8 to 33.1 cm and root length from 9.56 to 19.62 cm, with notable improvements in fresh and dry weights. The study further validated these findings through enzymatic assays and analysis of synthesized secondary metabolites, including chitinase, protease, hydrocyanic acid, indole acetic acid, phosphate solubilization and siderophore production. These results strongly suggest that P. plecoglossicida has the potential to serve as an effective biocontrol agent against soilborne cereal pathogens.