Abstract
Apple scab caused by Venturia inaequalis is a major disease in apple production. Scab epidemics during summer are driven by conidia produced only on apple leaves. In this situation, antagonists present in the phyllosphere may interfere with conidia of the pathogen during sporulation or infection. Within the EU-funded project REPCO, more than one hundred fungi were isolated from sporulating scab colonies and tested on apple seedlings for their potential to reduce sporulation of the pathogen. Since the aim of the study was to contribute to the development of a biocontrol product, only candidates were selected which fulfilled a range of additional criteria: those considered as major constraints in the development of biocontrol products. The best antagonists were applied under orchard conditions during two growing seasons. The antagonist Cladosporium cladosporioides H39 significantly reduced sporulation of V. inaequalis after most applications. However, in a few cases no effect was found. Protocols for production, down streaming and formulation have been developed for the antagonist. A new formulation as a wettable powder is now available for further orchard testing.
Original language | English |
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Publication status | Published - 2008 |
Event | ENDURE International Conference 2008 - Duration: 12 Oct 2008 → 15 Oct 2008 |
Conference/symposium
Conference/symposium | ENDURE International Conference 2008 |
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Period | 12/10/08 → 15/10/08 |