Eficiência de espécies do gênero Bacillus no controle biológico de Colletotrichum gloeosporioides

Abstract

Anthracnose, caused by the phytopathogen Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, is one of the most economically significant diseases in agriculture, negatively impacting productive efficiency. Although chemical control is widely used due to its rapid efficacy, it is associated with issues such as the development of resistant strains and adverse environmental and social impacts. In this context, biological control emerges as a promising alternative, offering efficiency aligned with sustainability. Bacteria of the genus Bacillus spp. have been extensively studied for their ability to suppress phytopathogens. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus pumilus, and Bacillus velezensis in the biological control of C. gloeosporioides. Antagonism tests were conducted using direct pairing and volatile metabolite action, with confrontations at two time points: at phase 0, the bacteria and the pathogen were inoculated simultaneously, while at phase 24, the bacteria were inoculated 24 hours prior to the pathogen. Colony diameters and radii were measured to calculate inhibition rates. The results revealed a significant interaction between bacterial species and the application timing, with inhibition rates of up to 86.78% in direct pairing and 26.38% for volatile metabolites. These findings highlight the high biotechnological potential of Bacillus spp. in controlling C. gloeosporioides, emphasizing the importance of carefully selecting the bacterial strain and the appropriate application timing to maximize biological control efficiency.