Characterization of vineyard soil bacteria for the control of Botrytis cinerea

Vineyard soils harbor an enormous diversity of microbial communities (bacteria, archaea and fungi) that play an important role in determining plant growth and productivity. Among the microbial communities, bacterial species such as Bacillus spp., Pantoea spp. and Pseudomonas spp. have been studied for their potential for biocontrol against plant pathogens such as Botrytis cinerea (gray mold) that cause the loss of economic crops such as grapes during harvest and transport. Growing concerns about the dangerous effects of chemical control (fungicides) on the environment and human health have stimulated the search for alternative biological tools. 

This study aimed to isolate, characterize and identify bacteria from vineyard soil with antifungal activity against Botrytis cinerea. Soil samples were obtained from two different vineyards located in Stellenbosch, South Africa. A culture method was used to isolate fastidious and nonfastidious bacteria on King's B and nutrient agar, respectively.

Find out how many bacteria were isolated and how many showed antifungal activity against two or all three strains of B. cinerea and whether they have the potential to control grapevine B. cinerea.

Video excerpt from the presentation given during Enoforum Web Scientists (March 13, 2023)

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