Rizobactérias Streptomyces no crescimento e na defesa de plantas de Solanum lycopersicum (L.)

Abstract

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) cultures are frequently attacked by many pathogens, leading to yield losses. Among the pathogens, the fungus Alternaria solani (“Early blight” disease) can cause significant yield reductions and decreases the fruit quality. Due to the high susceptibility of tomato to fungal pathogens, the agricultural practices include the intensive use of agrochemicals, which may result in fruits with high levels of residual pesticides and higher production costs. The promotion of plant defense system represents an additional tool for disease control and plant growth management. Some rhizobacteria have been shown the ability to affect plant development and modulate plant defense against pathogens. Among those bacteria, the genus Streptomyces is able to synthesize molecules that directly interfere with growth, through auxin and ACC deaminase production, and indirectly, through antibiotics and siderophores synthesis. The aim of this work was to select Streptomyces (CLV04, CLV05 and CLV07) with the ability to promote seed germination and plant growth, as well as improve tomato plant resistance against A. solani. Results showed that CLV07 delayed the initial seed germination, but it did not impair the final germination process. However, CLV04, CLV05 and CLV07 reduced the early root and shoot growth. All these rhizobacteria produced high auxin levels. CLV07 was efficient for inducing plant resistance against A. solani. Furthermore, all CLVs showed antagonism by competition, decreasing the A. solani growth. Taking together all results, Streptomyces tested were deleterious for seed and initial plant growth, but CLV07 showed a potential to be used for inducing plant resistance. However, the inoculation of these rhizobacteria on seeds is not recommended.