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BioBIVE: Development of Bio-Based Delivery Systems to Fight Fungal Phytopathogens in Horticultural Crops.

Abstract

Horticultural crop pathogens represent a recalcitrant challenge typically addressed with synthetic pesticides, causing significant environmental harm. As an alternative, bioactive agents (basic substances, microbial antagonists, and seaweed extracts) over sustainable solutions while maintaining effective pathogen control. Simultaneously, the plasticulture that supports the agricultural sector, particularly in mulch films, highly contributes to the accumulation of microplastics in soils. Addressing both issues, biodegradable platforms based on functionalized bioplastics emerge as eco-friendly replacements. The objective of the EU-funded project BioBIVE (no. 101130442) is to develop biodegradable delivery systems for the controlled release of bioactive agents, which target fungal pathogens in three key European horticultural crops (tomatoes, strawberries, and carrots). These systems combine three types of bio-platforms (bioplastic mulch, biochar, and sprayable mulch) with diverse bioactive compounds, such as basic substances, antagonistic microorganisms, and seaweed extracts, to maximize e_icacy. Preliminary findings showed a high fungicidal activity of di_erent basic substances against important fungal phytopathogens (such as Rhizoctonia solani, Botrytis cinerea or Fusarium oxysporum, among others), also presenting themselves as an effective ecosustainable alternative to current chemical fungicides. Additionally, laboratory trials with antagonistic bacteria and seaweed extracts showed potential in inhibiting pathogen growth, highlighting their complementary role alongside basic substances in sustainable crop protection strategies. In conclusion, this study focuses on the potential of biodegradable systems to replace conventional pesticides, contributing to reduced environmental impact while ensuring effective crop protection.

Category

Conference poster

Language

English

Author(s)

Affiliation

  • SINTEF Industry / Biotechnology and Nanomedicine

Presented at

FEMS Micro

Place

Milan

Date

14.07.2025 - 17.07.2025

Organizer

FEMS Journals

Date

25.08.2025

Year

2025

View this publication at Norwegian Research Information Repository