Biotechnological product development containing Memnoniella levispora fungus for use in agriculture

Abstract

Brazil has one of the largest microbial biodiversities on the planet. However, few microorganisms of this biodiversity have been exploited in agriculture. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (MAPA), only a few dozen microorganisms are registered for use in agriculture. Most of these microorganisms are related to biological pest control. Few microorganisms are used to control phytopathogens. This number decreases even more when it comes to microorganisms that have an effect on promoting plant growth. For resistance induction, a process that activates the natural defenses of plants, there is no microorganism registered for use in Brazil. At the same time, it is noteworthy that fungicides and other chemical compounds have lost effectiveness over time, which leads to unbridled application of these chemicals compromising the environment and human health. The search for sustainable solutions that also increase agricultural productivity must be incessant. Preliminary results from the project team and some scientific publications demonstrate the ability of the fungus M. levispora to solve some phytosanitary problems in agriculture. Thus, it is proposed in this project to evaluate the biotechnological potential of the fungus M. levispora in terms of its abilities in the following three fronts: i) biological control of plant pathogens, ii) growth promotion and iii) resistance induction towards biotic and abiotic stresses. It will also be evaluated the potential of spore production of this fungus on a commercial scale, aiming at the development of a bioproduct for agriculture. (AU)