Title Screening and antifungal potential of ochrobactrum ciceri against Sclerotium rolfsii

Abstract

The soil-borne fungus Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc., which causes collar rot, is a major constraint of chili (Capsicum annum L.) production in Pakistan causing substantial yield loss. Bacterial biocontrol agents are among the favored trends as efficient and eco-friendly agents to mitigate disease stress in modern agriculture. The present study was conducted to assess in vitro antifungal potential of Ochrobactrum ciceri against S. rolfsii through dual culture, modified dual culture, and novel ring methods. Initially, the pathogenicity of the S. rolfsii was confirmed in the chili plants, followed by an assessment of the antifungal potential of O. ciceri. Results revealed that O. ciceri showed considerable antimycotic activity against S. rolfsii by inhibiting 70-100% of the mycelial growth. The novel ring method was found more effective for rapid assessment of the bacterial antagonistic activity as compared to the conventional dual culture plate assay. O. ciceri could be utilized as an effective alternative for managing collar rot disease in chili plants.