P-107 - Antagonistic secondary metabolites from a bacterial biopesticide candidate that controls root rot in pulses

Root rot is one of the most economically damaging plant diseases affecting pulse crops in Canada. This disease is caused by a complex of pathogens and can lead to severe crop losses. Little can be done to reduce crop damage once this disease has established, thus there is a need for next generation pest management products to control this devastating crop disease. Through previous isolate screening efforts at AAFC, a microbial biocontrol agent (BCA) with antagonistic activity against multiple root rot pathogens was identified. We explored the secondary metabolites produced by this BCA that are responsible for the antagonistic activity. Characterization of the secondary metabolite profile provides an improved understanding of the mechanisms of action for this BCA, which can lead to optimized development of a commercially available biopesticide. This approach to controlling root rot contributes to integrated pest management strategies and will advance sustainable crop production practices in Canada.