An Investigation of Fusarium Basal Rot of Onion and Candidate Biocontrol Agents in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia

Bunbury-Blanchette, A. L. (2018). An Investigation of Fusarium Basal Rot of Onion and Candidate Biocontrol Agents in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia. https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:2666

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Title

An Investigation of Fusarium Basal Rot of Onion and Candidate Biocontrol Agents in the
Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia

Author
Bunbury-Blanchette, Adèle L.
Call Number

LE3 .A278 2018

Date

2018

Supervisor

Walker, Allison

Degree Grantor

Acadia University

Degree Name

Master of Science

Degree Level

Masters

Discipline

Biology

Affiliation

Biology

Abstract

The fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cepae (FOC) has recently caused increased basal rot symptoms of locally grown bulb onions, leading to declined crop yield and quality. Current control strategies have not reduced symptoms. This research characterizes a local strain of FOC and identifies and tests local fungi for potential as biocontrol agents. Fungi from soil collected from onion fields in the Annapolis Valley were isolated and identified using DNA barcoding; seven belonged to the genus Trichoderma. Dual culture trials revealed signs of antagonism between FOC and all identified Trichoderma species. Virulence of FOC on onion was determined using greenhouse bioassays; 1000 spores/g soil resulted in ~50% onion seedling mortality. T. harzianum and T. atroviride were ascertained to decrease the presence and severity of FOC symptoms in greenhouse grown onions. Field and greenhouse testing of commercial products containing biocontrol agents including T. harzianum were inconclusive.

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Permanent Link

https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:2666

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