A microorganism that prolongs the freshness of mangoes
Mango (Mangifera indica L.), one of the world's most popular tropical fruits, is widely cultivated in more than 70 countries and favored for its unique aroma and nutritional value. However, its postharvest wastage rate is as high as 30-40%, which is mainly attributed to pathogenic fungi such as anthracnose (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides), Alternaria alternata, Lasiodiplodia spp. and Aspergillus spp. ...) and Aspergillus spp.) and other pathogenic fungi caused by rot.Currently, postharvest disease control relies heavily on chemical fungicides (e.g., prochloraz, methidathion, etc.), but their long-term use has led to a triple challenge: (1) accumulation of environmental contaminants, (2) increased pathogen resistance (e.g., high resistance of Dictyostelium coccolinate to methidathion), and (3) tightening of regulatory policies globally. Although alternative technologies such as hot water treatment and air-conditioned packaging exist, their application is limited.Biocontrol microorganisms (BCMs) have become a research hotspot due to their environmental compatibility and low toxicity. Among them, Bacillus velezensis has been prominent in postharvest preservation of strawberries, citrus and other fruits in the last decade, but its potential for the prevention and control of mango stem end rot has not been fully explored. In this study, based on the pre-discovered broad-spectrum antagonist strain B. velezensis P15 (with inhibitory activity against 21 plant pathogens), the following studies were conducted to elucidate its application value:Evaluating the antagonistic efficacy of P15 against mango pathogenic fungi by in vitro and in vivo experimental systems;To analyze the mechanism of action of its volatile/diffusible antifungal metabolites.ranslated with DeepL.com (free version)