Modes of action of non-pathogenic strains of Fusarium oxysporum in controlling Fusarium wilts

Abstract

Many studies have demonstrated the capacity of non-pathogenic strains of F. oxysporum to control Fusarium diseases.<br />These non-pathogenic strains show several modes of action contributing to their biocontrol capacity. They are able to<br />compete for nutrients in the soil, affecting the rate of chlamydospore germination and the saprophytic growth of the<br />pathogen, diminishing the probability for the pathogen to reach the root surface. They are competing with the pathogen<br />at the root surface for colonization of infection sites, and inside the root where they induce plant defence reactions. By<br />triggering the defence reactions, they induce systemic resistance of the plant. Depending on the strain, and on the plant<br />species, these mechanisms are more or less important, leading to a more or less efficient biocontrol efficacy.