Abstract: Studies of diseases affecting wheat seeds are essential to ensure sustainable agricultural production and food security. Black point disease in wheat grains, characterized by brown-black discoloration at the embryo's tip, is associated with the presence of phytopathogenic fungal genera such as Alternaria and Bipolaris. Although this disease usually does not affect crop yield, it can compromise grain quality, resulting in economic losses due to market discounts. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the conservation method using triple-distilled sterile water (TDSW) to preserve the viability and stability of Alternaria sp. and Bipolaris sp. The results demonstrated that the TDSW method was effective in conserving three out of the four evaluated strains, with Alt04 being the most viable. These findings suggest that TDSW could represent an economical and effective alternative for long-term preservation of these phytopathogenic fungi. Given their critical role in agriculture, identifying the genera associated with black point disease, as well as their proper isolation and conservation, will facilitate the registration of reference strains for future research.

Resumen: Los estudios de las enfermedades que afectan a las semillas de trigo son esenciales para garantizar la producción agrícola sostenible y la seguridad alimentaria. La punta negra del grano de trigo, caracterizada por la decoloración marrón-negra en el extremo del embrión, se asocia con la presencia de géneros hongos fitopatógenos, como Alternaria y Bipolaris. Aunque esta enfermedad no suele afectar el rendimiento del cultivo, puede comprometer la calidad del grano, lo que resulta en pérdidas económicas debido a descuentos en el mercado. El presente estudio evaluó la efectividad del método de conservación utilizando agua destilada-esterilizada tres veces (ADTE) para preservar la viabilidad y estabilidad de Alternaria sp. y Bipolaris sp. Los resultados demostraron que el método ADTE fue eficaz para conservar tres de las cuatro cepas evaluadas, siendo Alt04 la más viable. Estos hallazgos sugieren que el ADTE podría representar una alternativa económica y efectiva para la conservación a largo plazo de estos hongos fitopatógenos. Dado su papel crítico en la agricultura, la identificación de los géneros asociados a la enfermedad de la punta negra, así como su correcto aislamiento y conservación, facilitarán el registro de cepas de referencia para investigaciones futuras.

ABSTRACT Harvest delay can alter the physiological and sanitary quality of sorghum seeds due to the longer exposure time of seeds to adverse environmental conditions in the field. In this study, we investigated the impact of delayed Sorghum sp. harvest on the physiological and sanitary quality of seeds in four hybrids grown in the tropical soil of the Brazilian Cerrado region. Plants from four Sorghum sp. hybrids (IPA SUDAN 4202, BRS 658, BRS 810, and BRS 373) were grown and submitted to four seed harvest periods (0, 7, 14, and 21 days after stage 9 - seed physiological maturity). The treatments were arranged in a completely randomized block design in a 4 × 4 factorial, with four replicates. At each harvest period, the thousand-seed weight, water content, first count of the germination test, germination, seedling emergence, emergence speed index, seedling dry matter, accelerated aging, electrical conductivity, and sanitary quality of seeds were determined. Seeds of higher physiological and sanitary quality of the IPA SUDAN 4202 and BRS 658 sorghum hybrids can be obtained when the harvest is carried out up to 7 days after the physiological maturity stage. However, the delay in seed harvesting at 14 and 21 days after physiological maturity results in a higher incidence of Colletotrichum sp., Curvularia sp., Rhizoctonia sp., and Alternaria sp. on the seeds of these hybrids. Delaying the harvest of sorghum seeds from 7 days after the physiological maturity stage compromises seed vigor and viability and increases the incidence of pathogens. field study sp region 810 373 0, 0 (0 2 maturity. . maturity) factorial replicates period thousandseed thousand weight content test index matter aging conductivity determined 420 65 However 1 pathogens 81 37 ( 42 6 8 3

ABSTRACT Tomato is an important economic crop due to its consumption and production worldwide. However, like other crops, it is susceptible to pathogens, being necessary agrochemicals to prevent diseases and improve the production of fruits. Among the sustainable alternatives to crop production, microbial inoculants are used as biofungicide and biostimulants for plant development. Thus, this work aimed to evaluate the biocontrol potential of seven Trichoderma spp. isolates (T1, T2, T3, T4, T15, T17, and T19) against tomato pathogens in vitro experiments, and their potential to improve tomato growth. The Trichoderma spp. antagonism was investigated against Alternaria sp. 003/09, Botrytis sp. 006/13, Fusarium sp. 007/09, and Stemphylium sp. A73. Dual culture, volatile, and diffusible compounds activity tests showed that all new Trichoderma spp. tested could reduce the mycelial growth of all tested pathogens, highlighting T15 and T17 isolates. Seed and soil inoculation revealed very contrasting results: Trichoderma sp. T17 showed a beneficial effect when inoculated in soil, reducing the percentage of yellowish leaves, and increasing dry weight and stem diameter. Inoculation of Trichoderma sp. T17 in the seed increases hypocotyl and radicle lengths, and the seed vigor index. Finally, the strains studied present the potential to be used to develop biocontrol products. worldwide However crops fruits development Thus spp T1, T1 T (T1 T2 T3 T4 T19 experiments sp 00309 003 09 003/09 00613 006 13 006/13 00709 007 007/09 A73 A culture volatile results leaves diameter lengths index Finally products (T 0030 00 0 003/0 0061 1 006/1 0070 007/0 A7 003/ 006/ 007/

Abstract The objective was to identify the strains, quantity and diversity of fungi present in tortillas of 14 corn breeds. The weight of the fungal complex (PCH) was determined and the identification of its fungi and characteristics of the grain (flotation index), nixtamal (nixtamal moisture and dough moisture) and tortilla (tortilla moisture at 24 and 48 hours). An analysis of variance was performed on the data. All variables presented significant differences (p < 0.05). For the PCH the highest statistically different averages were the Naltel de altura breed (0.69 g) and Arrocillos amarillo breed (0.68 g) per tortilla. The Chalqueño breed had the highest number of mushrooms in the complex (Aspergillus flavus, Mucor sp., Penicillium sp., Rhizopus oryzae, Acremonium sp. y Alternaria sp.) unlike the fungus Penicillium sp., the Conico breed was the second best and in Pepitilla only the Acremonium sp. fungus was identified. For the humidity of nixtamal and dough moisture, the Pepitilla breed obtained the best values with 49.7 and 60.9%, respectively. There were differences of 65.2% in the PCH between the races evaluated, with the highest and lowest weight being the tall Naltel and Chalqueño breeds, respectively.

Resumen El objetivo fue identificar las cepas, la cantidad y la diversidad de hongos presente en tortillas de 14 razas de maíz. Se determinó el peso del complejo de hongos (PCH) y la identificación de los hongos del mismo, así como características del grano (índice de flotación), nixtamal (humedad de nixtamal y humedad de masa) y tortilla (humedad de tortillo a las 24 y 48 h). A los datos se les realizó un análisis de varianza. Todas las variables presentaron diferencias significativas (p < 0.05). Para el PCH los mayores promedios estadísticamente diferente fueron las razas Naltel de altura (0.69 g) y Arrocillos amarillo (0.68 g) por tortilla. La raza Chalqueño tuvo el mayor número de hongos en el complejo (Aspergillus flavus, Mucor sp., Pen icilli um sp., Rh izopus oryzae, Acremonium sp. y Alternaría sp.); con diferencia del hongo Penicillium sp., la raza Cónico fue la segunda mejor, y en Pepitilla solo se identificó el hongo Acremonium sp. Para la humedad de nixtamal y de masa la raza Pepitilla obtuvo los mejores valores, con un 49.7 y 60.9%, respectivamente. Se tuvieron diferencias del 65.2% en el PCH entre las razas evaluadas, presentando el mayor y menor peso las razas Naltel de altura y Chalqueño, respectivamente.

ABSTRACT Tangerines and their hybrids are affected by economically essential diseases. The Alternaria brown spot (Alternaria alternata f. sp. citri) deserves to be highlighted, as it is present in all tangerine production areas. This study aimed to determine the effect of essential oils on A. alternata f. sp. citri. The experiments were carried out in the Laboratories of Phytopathology and Biology and Technology of Post-Harvest of the Federal University of Paraíba, Areia, PB. Three pathogen isolates were used, and ten essential oils from grape, sunflower, eucalyptus, ginger, copaiba, mint, fennel, citronella, clove, and linseed at a concentration of 1%, diluted in potato dextrose agar for in vitro tests. The oils were diluted in distilled water for the fruit test, and the fruits were immersed in the treatments for 5 min. In addition, the fungicide Thiabendazole (400 mL/100L) and sterile distilled water were used as the control treatments. The fruits were inoculated with a conidia suspension of the pathogen (105 conidia/mL). Mycelial Growth Rate Index, colony diameter, spore production and dimensions, fruit disease severity, and enzymatic activity were evaluated. A completely randomized design was used, with 12 treatments and four replications in vivo. The results indicate that the essential oils of mint, eucalyptus, fennel, and citronella were efficient in the in vitro control of the pathogen, ultimately inhibiting the growth of fungal colonies. Eucalyptus oil efficiently managed A. alternata f. sp. citri on ‘Dancy’ tangerine fruits. Essential oils did not influence the enzymatic activity of the fruits. diseases f sp highlighted areas PostHarvest Post Harvest Paraíba Areia PB grape sunflower eucalyptus ginger copaiba mint fennel clove 1 1% tests test min addition 400 (40 mL/100L mL100L mLL mL 100L L 105 (10 conidia/mL. conidiamL conidia/mL . conidia/mL) Index diameter dimensions severity evaluated vivo colonies ‘Dancy Dancy 40 (4 10 (1 4 (

RESUMO As tangerineiras e seus híbridos são acometidos por doenças economicamente importantes. Merece destaque a mancha marrom de Alternaria (Alternaria alternata f. sp. citri), por estar presente em todas as áreas de produção de tangerinas. Esse trabalho objetivou determinar o efeito de óleos essenciais sobre A. alternata f. sp. citri. Os experimentos foram conduzidos no Laboratório de Fitopatologia, e no laboratório de Biologia e Tecnologia Pós-Colheita da Universidade Federal da Paraíba, Areia, PB. Foram utilizados três isolados do patógeno, e dez óleos essenciais de sementes de uva, girassol, eucalipto, gengibre, copaíba, menta, ervadoce, citronela, cravo e linhaça na concentração de 1%, diluídos em meio de cultura batata-dextrose-ágar, para os testes in vitro. Para o teste nos frutos os óleos foram diluídos em água destilada e os frutos imersos nos tratamentos por 5 min. Além do fungicida Tiabendazol (400 mL/100L) e água destilada estéril consistiram nas testemunhas. Os frutos foram inoculados com suspensão de conídios do patógeno (105 conídios/mL). Avaliou-se o índice de velocidade de crescimento micelial, diâmetro de colônia, produção e dimensões de esporos, severidade da doença em frutos e atividade enzimática. Utilizou-se o delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com 12 tratamentos e quatro repetições in vivo. Os resultados indicam que, os óleos essenciais de menta, eucalipto, erva-doce e citronela foram eficientes no controle in vitro do patógeno, inibindo totalmente o crescimento das colônias fúngicas. O óleo de eucalipto foi eficiente no manejo de A. alternata f. sp. citri em frutos de tangerineira ‘Dancy’. Os óleos essenciais não influenciaram na atividade enzimática dos frutos. importantes f sp citri, , citri) tangerinas A Fitopatologia PósColheita Pós Colheita Paraíba Areia PB uva girassol gengibre copaíba menta ervadoce 1 1% batatadextroseágar, batatadextroseágar batata dextrose ágar, ágar batata-dextrose-ágar min 400 (40 mL/100L mL100L mLL mL 100L L testemunhas 105 (10 conídios/mL. conídiosmL conídios/mL . conídios/mL) Avaliouse Avaliou se micelial colônia esporos Utilizouse Utilizou casualizado vivo que erva doce fúngicas ‘Dancy. Dancy ‘Dancy ‘Dancy’ 40 (4 10 (1 4 (

ABSTRACT Non-sterilized seeds from three commercial cultivars of cotton (Gossypium barbadense L.) were examined for qualitative and quantitative estimates of seed-borne fungi. The observed fungi were Aspergillus sp.1, Aspergillus sp.2, Penicillium sp., A. flavus, Alternaria sp., A. niger, Fusarium sp., Rhizopus sp. and A. ochrecous. According to the quantitative estimates, A. niger (36.02%), A. flavus (19.29%) and Penicillium sp. (16.74%) were the most predominant fungi isolated from the seeds. Other fungi occurred at frequencies ranging from 0.21% to 10.44%. Analysis of variance showed that each aflatoxin type (A) and cotton cultivar (V) was a significant source of variation in the seed aflatoxin content , while storage period (P) was a nonsignificant source of variation. The first-order interactions A×V and A×P were always nonsignificant sources of variation. In general, aflatoxin B1 content was greater than that of B2. Two regression models, derived from stepwise multiple regression analysis, were constructed to describe the effects of the isolated fungi (independent variables or predictors) on aflatoxin content (dependent variables). The first one-variable model (R2 = 34.8%) was used to predict B1 content, while the second five-variable model (R2 = 98.2%) was used to predict B2 content. It is worth noting that species of the genus Aspergillus alone accounted for 53.6% of the total variation in B2 content. In conclusion, cottonseed is susceptible to infection with toxigenic fungi that can be harmful during storage. The study demonstrated the deleterious impacts of A. flavus and aflatoxins on the assessed seed quality measures, highlighting the need to monitor toxigenic fungi and their aflatoxins. The findings of this study might aid in the development of techniques for reducing aflatoxins in oily seeds. Nonsterilized Non sterilized Gossypium L. L seedborne borne sp1 sp 1 sp.1 sp2 2 sp.2 A ochrecous 36.02%, 3602 36.02% 36 02 (36.02%) 19.29% 1929 19 29 (19.29% 16.74% 1674 16 74 (16.74% 021 0 21 0.21 1044 10 44 10.44% (A V (V P (P firstorder order AV AP general B models analysis independent predictors dependent variables. . variables) onevariable one variable R2 R (R 34.8% 348 34 8 fivevariable five 98.2% 982 98 536 53 6 53.6 conclusion measures 360 36.02 3 (36.02% 19.29 192 (19.29 16.74 167 7 (16.74 0.2 104 4 10.44 34.8 98.2 9 5 53. 36.0 (36.02 19.2 (19.2 16.7 (16.7 0. 10.4 34. 98. 36. (36.0 19. (19. 16. (16. 10. (36. (19 (16 (36 (1 (3 (

RESUMO Sementes não esterilizadas de três cultivares comerciais de algodão (Gossypium barbadense L.) foram analisadas quanto a estimativas qualitativas e quantitativas de fungos transmitidos por sementes. Os fungos observados foram Aspergillus sp.1, Aspergillus sp.2, Penicillium sp., A. flavus, Alternaria sp., A. niger, Fusarium sp., Rhizopus sp. e A. ochrecous. De acordo com estimativas quantitativas, A. niger (36.02%), A. flavus (19.29%) e Penicillium sp. (16.74%) foram os fungos predominantes isolados das sementes. Outros fungos ocorreram com frequência variando de 0.21% a 10.44%. Análise de variância mostrou que cada tipo de aflatoxina (A) e cultivar de algodão (V) constituiu uma fonte significativa de variação no teor de aflatoxina nas sementes, enquanto que o período de armazenamento (P) não se mostrou uma fonte significativa de variação. As interações de primeira ordem A×V e A×P resultaram sempre como fontes de variação não significativas. Em geral, o teor de aflatoxina B1 foi maior que o de B2. Dois modelos de regressão, derivados de análise de regressão múltipla stepwise, foram elaborados para descrever os efeitos dos fungos isolados (variáveis ou preditores independentes) no teor de aflatoxina (variáveis dependentes). O primeiro modelo de uma variável (R2= 34.8%) foi usado para prever o teor de B1, enquanto que o segundo modelo de cinco variáveis (R2= 98.2%) foi usado para prever o teor de B2. Vale destacar que as espécies do gênero Aspergillus foram responsáveis por 53.6% da variação total no teor de B2. Em conclusão, sementes de algodão são susceptíveis a infecção por fungos toxigênicos que podem ser prejudiciais durante o armazenamento. Este estudo demonstrou os impactos negativos de A. flavus e aflatoxinas nas medidas de qualidade das sementes avaliadas, ressaltando a necessidade de se monitorar fungos toxigênicos e suas aflatoxinas. Os resultados do presente estudo podem ajudar no desenvolvimento de técnicas para reduzir as aflatoxinas em sementes oleaginosas. Gossypium L. L sp1 sp 1 sp.1 sp2 2 sp.2 A ochrecous 36.02%, 3602 36.02% , 36 02 (36.02%) 19.29% 1929 19 29 (19.29% 16.74% 1674 16 74 (16.74% 021 0 21 0.21 1044 10 44 10.44% (A V (V P (P AV AP significativas geral B B2 stepwise independentes dependentes. dependentes . dependentes) R2= R2 R (R2 34.8% 348 34 8 98.2% 982 98 536 53 6 53.6 conclusão avaliadas oleaginosas 360 36.02 3 (36.02% 19.29 192 (19.29 16.74 167 7 (16.74 0.2 104 4 10.44 (R 34.8 98.2 9 5 53. 36.0 (36.02 19.2 (19.2 16.7 (16.7 0. 10.4 34. 98. 36. (36.0 19. (19. 16. (16. 10. (36. (19 (16 (36 (1 (3 (

ABSTRACT The fungi presence during seed maturation and dispersion is related to biotic and abiotic factors. These microorganisms can cause loss seeds physiological quality in unfavorable climatic conditions. We hypothesize that sanitary quality of seeds produced is affected by tree and origin climatic condition. The aim was evaluated fungi incidence and seeds quality of Pityrocarpa moniliformis from different trees and two climatic conditions (Aw: rainy tropical; and BSh: warm semiarid). We collected seeds from 28 parent trees, evaluating separately the physiological and sanitary quality of the seeds produced in each tree. Different trees originated seeds with differences in physiological quality and fungi incidence. The climatic condition of the trees' origin affected the amount and fungi species present in the seeds produced, with a predominant incidence of the genera Alternaria spp., Aspergillus spp., Botrytis spp., Fusarium spp., Penicillium spp. and Rhyzopus sp. The Alternaria spp. incidence is correlated with seeds of low physiological quality. Therefore, we conclude that Pityrocarpa moniliformis trees under a tropical rainy climate produce seeds with superior physiological and sanitary quality compared to those located in a warm semiarid climate. factors Aw (Aw BSh semiarid. . semiarid) 2 spp sp Therefore

RESUMO A presença de fungos potencialmente prejudiciais durante a maturação e dispersão das sementes tem relação com fatores bióticos e abióticos. Esses microrganismos podem causar perda da qualidade fisiológica de sementes em condições climáticas desfavoráveis. Nesta pesquisa, levantou-se a hipótese de que a qualidade sanitária das sementes produzidas é afetada pela árvore e condição climática de origem. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar a incidência de fungos e a qualidade de sementes de Pityrocarpa moniliformis provenientes de diferentes árvores e duas condições climáticas (Aw: tropical chuvoso; e BSh: semiárido quente). Coletaram-se sementes de 28 árvores, avaliando-se separadamente a qualidade fisiológica e sanitária das sementes produzidas em cada árvore. Diferentes árvores originaram sementes com diferenças na qualidade fisiológica e incidência de fungos. A condição climática de origem das árvores afetou a quantidade e a espécie fúngica presente nas sementes produzidas, com incidência predominante dos gêneros Alternaria spp., Aspergillus spp., Botrytis spp., Fusarium spp., Penicillium spp. e Rhyzopus sp, sendo a incidência de Alternaria spp. correlacionada com sementes de baixa qualidade fisiológica. Portanto, conclui-se que árvores de Pityrocarpa moniliformis sob clima tropical chuvoso produzem sementes de qualidade fisiológica e sanitária superior em relação àquelas localizadas em clima semiárido quente. abióticos desfavoráveis pesquisa levantouse levantou se Assim objetivouse objetivou Aw (Aw BSh quente . quente) Coletaramse Coletaram 2 avaliandose avaliando spp sp Portanto concluise conclui

Abstract Mexico is one of the main producers of pepper and maize worldwide. Activity from which significant amounts of biomass and agricultural by-products originate must be valued to mitigate damage to the environment and generate added value. This study aimed to value the agricultural biomass of chili and maize, to obtain phytochemicals with antibacterial and antifungal capacity against phytopathogens of economic importance for agriculture, using extraction methodologies based on green chemistry. For the extraction of phytochemicals, two types of Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) were used, and a lactic fermentation with Lactobacillus plantarum. The extracts were evaluated in vitro and in vivo against Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis, Xanthomonas vesicatoria, Ralstonia solanacearum, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. licopersici, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Botrytis cinerea and Alternaria solani. The in vitro results showed that the extracts obtained with the DES were effective against bacteria, unlike the in vivo tests that inhibited the growth of fungi. The potential of biomass extracts against phytopathogenic microorganisms suggests its usefulness as an agricultural biocontrol tool, by ensuring sustainability with the use of DES that, in addition to being efficient, biodegradable, and innocuous, achieved the extraction of antimicrobial phytochemicals.

Resumen México es uno de los principales productores de chile y de maíz a nivel mundial. Actividad de la que se originan grandes cantidades de biomasa y subproductos agrícolas, los cuales se pretende que sean valorizados para mitigar el daño al medio ambiente y generar así un valor agregado. El objetivo de este estudio fue obtener fitoquímicos con actividad antibacteriana y antifúngica de biomasa de chile y de maíz contra fitopatógenos de importancia económica para la agricultura, al emplear métodos de extracción basados en la química verde. Para la extracción de los fitoquímicos se dispuso de dos tipos de Disolventes Eutécticos Profundos (DES), y una fermentación láctica con Lactobacillus plantarum. Los extractos se evaluaron in vitro e in vivo contra Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis, Xanthomonas vesicatoria, Ralstonia solanacearum, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. licopersici , Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Botrytis cinerea y Alternaria solani. Los resultados in vitro demostraron que los extractos obtenidos con los DES fueron efectivos contra las bacterias, a diferencia de las pruebas in vivo que inhibieron el crecimiento de los hongos. El potencial de los extractos de las biomasas contra los microorganismos fitopatógenos, las señala como una herramienta de biocontrol agrícola, que asegura la sustentabilidad y se aprovecha el beneficio de los DES que son eficientes, biodegradables, inocuos, y con capacidad de extracción de fitoquímicos antimicrobianos y antifúngicos.

Resumen Introducción.Fusariumsp yAlternariasp son hongos fitopatógenos que causan serios problemas en cultivos y en el sector agrícola, situación que genera pérdidas económicas importantes. Además, debido a la producción de micotoxinas representan una amenaza para la salud de los consumidores y para las plantas. Objetivo. Evaluar la actividad antifúngica del extracto etanólico de hojas de borraja (Borago officinalis)sobreFusariumsp yAlternariasp. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó la identificación cualitativa y cuantitativa de los metabolitos secundarios presentes en el extracto etanólico deB. officinalis, posteriormente,FusariumspyAlternariasp. fueron secuenciadas por estudios moleculares mediante la amplificación de la región ITS (espaciador transcribible interno) del ADN ribosomal y finalmente, se evaluó la actividad antifúngica del extracto sobre las cepas previamente reconocidas mediante la prueba de crecimiento radial por técnica de difusión en agar. Resultados. El extracto etanólico de las hojas deB. officinaliscontiene alcaloides, flavonoides, fenoles, polifenoles y saponinas, de los cuales los polifenoles y los flavonoides presentan una concentración de 19,08±0,01 miligramos equivalentes de ácido gálico (EAG) por gramo de extracto y 28,12±0,06 miligramos equivalentes de catequina (Qe) por gramo de extracto, respectivamente. La secuenciación de los aislamientos evaluados mostró una alta similitud (>98%) con varias especies de Fusarium sp yAlternariasp, mientras que los ensayos de actividad antifúngica del extracto mostraron actividad fungistática por parte deB. officinalisal ser 16 mg.l-1el tratamiento más efectivo para ambos aislamientos evaluados con un porcentaje de inhibición de 90,3±0,9% paraAlternariasp y 86,6±2,2% paraFusariumsp, dondeAlternariasp presentó mayor susceptibilidad frente al extracto de las hojas deB. officinalis. Conclusión. Los resultados de esta investigación proporcionan uno de los primeros reportes de la actividad antifúngica deBorago officinalissobreFusariumsp yAlternariasp.

Abstract Introduction.Fusariumsp andAlternariasp are phytopathogenic fungi that cause serious problems in crops and in the agricultural sector, situation that generates significant economic losses. In addition, due to the production of mycotoxins, they pose a threat to the health of consumers and plants. Objective. To evaluate the antifungal activity of the ethanolic extract of borraja leaves (Borago officinalis) onFusariumsp andAlternariasp. Materials and methods. Qualitative and quantitative identification of the secondary metabolites present in the ethanolic extract ofB. officinaliswas carried out, later,Fusariumsp andAlternariasp were sequenced by molecular studies by amplifying the ITS (internal transcribable spacer) region of ribosomal DNA and finally, antifungal activity of the extract on previously recognized strains was evaluated by means of radial growth test using agar diffusion technique. Results. Ethanolic extract ofB. officinalisleaves contains alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, polyphenols and saponins, of which polyphenols and flavonoids have a concentration of 19.08±0.01 milligrams equivalent of gallic acid (EAG) per gram of extract and 28.12±0.06 milligrams equivalent of catechin (Qe) per gram of extract, respectively. Molecular sequencing of the evaluated isolates showed a high similarity (> 98%) with several species ofFusariumsp andAlternaria sp, while antifungal activity tests of the extract showed fungistatic activity byB. officinalis, with 16 mg.l-1being the most effective treatment for both isolates evaluated with an inhibition percentage of 90.3±0.9% forAlternariasp and 86.6±2.2% forFusariumsp, whereAlternariasp presented greater susceptibility to the extract ofB. officinalisleaves. Conclusion. The results of this investigation provide one of the first reports of the antifungal activity ofBorago officinalisonFusariumsp andAlternariasp.

Abstract Fungi develop upon pine seeds during storage, and deteriorate their quality. The objective of this study was to identify the fungal genera that are associated with the seeds of Pinus montezumae and P. greggii in two relative humidities (HR). They were stored at 60 and 80 % RH at 5 °C. The samplings were made for 180 days. Seed moisture content (HS), fungal free seeds (SLH) were assessed and fungal genera (GH) were identified by colony morphology. In HS and SLH, a completely randomized experimental design was applied and a comparison of means was made. All sources of variation were significant. The mean HS per species was 9.59 and 12.37 % and SLH of 64.52 and 69.28 % for P. greggii and P. montezumae, respectively. In the P. greggii seed stored at 60 HR, HS was 7.97 %, with 66.19 % in SLH and at 80 HR, 11.21 % and 62.85 % in SLH. For P. montezumae at 60 HR, the HS was 10.21 % and 71.42 % in SLH; at 80 HR, HS was 14.53 % and 67.14 % in SLH. The GH identified promote the deterioration of the seeds; they were: Alternaria sp, in P. greggii at 60 HR it was not observed, Penicillium sp. increased and predominated after 120 days, Fusarium sp. was constant; Aspergillus sp. and Rizhopus sp., appeared sporadically

Resumen Las semillas de pinos durante su almacenamiento pueden presentar hongos que deterioran su calidad. El objetivo de la presente investigación consistió en identificar los géneros fúngicos que se asocian a las semillas de Pinus montezumae y P. greggii en dos humedades relativas (HR). Se les almacenó a 60 y 80 % de HR a 5 °C. Los muestreos se hicieron durante 180 días. Se evaluó el contenido de humedad de semilla (HS), las semillas libres de hongos (SLH); y se identificaron los géneros de los hongos (GH) por la morfología de sus colonias. En HS y SLH se aplicó un diseño experimental completamente al azar y se hizo una comparación de medias. Todas las fuentes de variación fueron significativas. La HS media por especie fue de 9.59 y de 12.37 %; la SLH de 64.52 y 69.28 % para P. greggii y P. montezumae, respectivamente. En la semilla de P. greggii almacenada a 60 HR, la HS fue de 7.97 %, con 66.19 % en SLH y a 80 HR, de 11.21 % y 62.85 % en SLH. Para P. montezumae a 60 HR, la HS fue de 10.21 % y de 71.42 % en SLH; a 80 HR, la HS fue de 14.53 % y 67.14 % en SLH. Los GH identificados que promueven el deterioro de las semillas fueron: Alternaria sp, que en P. greggii a 60 HR no se observó; Penicillium sp incrementó y predominó a partir de los 120 días; Fusarium sp. fue constante; de forma esporádica se presentaron Aspergillus sp y Rizhopus sp.

Abstract The vertical distribution of fungi in seven types of pine leaves of Pinus arizonica, P. cembroides, and P. pseudostrobus was studied during one year by the method of isolation in culture medium in Petri dishes (indirect method) and by the use of moist chambers (direct method). 57 taxa of fungi were identified by the culture medium method, 56 taxa are adscribed to the Phyla Ascomycota and only one species (Gymnopus androsaceus) belongs to the Phyla Basidiomycota; Lophodermium australe, Pestalotia stevensonii and Rhizosphaera kalkhoffii were the most abundant species; Cladosporium cladosporioides, Alternaria alternata and Ceuthospora sp. were the most frequent taxa. By the moist chamber method 28 taxa were determined; Lophodermium australe, Preussia sp., and Pestalotia stevensonii were the most abundant species; Preussia sp., and Coniochaeta ligniaria were the most frequent species. Well defined patterns of fungi were observed in both methods for the three pine species and for the studied leave types. Pinus arizonica, registered the bigger fungal diversity followed by P. pseudostrobus and P. cembroides. As the leaf degradation rate grows, the number of species of fungi decrease.

Resumen Se estudió la distribución vertical de hongos en siete tipos de hojas de Pinus arizonica, P. cembroides y P. pseudostrobus mediante los métodos de aislamiento en medio de cultivo en caja de Petri (método indirecto) y con el uso de cámaras húmedas (método directo) durante un año. Por el método de cultivo se obtuvieron 57 taxones, 56 se adscriben al Phyla Ascomycota y solo uno (Gymnopus androsaceus) a Basidiomycota; Lophodermium australe, Pestalotia stevensonii y Rhizosphaera kalkhoffii fueron las especies más abundantes; mientras que Cladosporium cladosporioides, Alternaria alternata y Ceuthospora sp resultaron las más frecuentes. Con la cámara húmeda se identificaron 28 taxones; Lophodermium australe, Preussia sp. y Pestalotia stevensonii fueron más abundantes; Preussia sp. y Coniochaeta ligniaria fueron los hongos más frecuentes. Para los dos métodos, P. arizonica presentó la mayor diversidad de hongos, seguida de P. pseudostrobus y P. cembroides. Se observaron patrones definidos de hongos en cada una de las especies de pinos y para los tipos de hojas estudiados, de estos últimos, las muertas en el suelo y las grises presentaron la diversidad fúngica más alta. Conforme avanza su grado de descomposición, el número de especies de hongos disminuye.

Abstract The Bacillales order has been reported to exhibit an antagonistic activity toward some phytopathogens. In addition, several studies have mentioned the presence of some species of this order in the vermicompost leachate. In the present study , the antagonistic effect of five Bacillales strains on the mycelial growth of Phytophthora capsici, Fusarium oxysporum, Alternaria solani and Rhizopus sp. was evaluated. Five bacterial strains were isolated from vermicompost leachate and identified by their morphological and biochemical characteristics. Subsequently these strains and a standard Bacillus subtilis strain were used to observe the competition against four fungi strains by determining the percentage inhibition of mycelial growth. Significant differences in percentage inhibition were founded among strains. The greatest antagonistic capacity was observed in Bacillus licheniformis and B. badius. Results showed that vermicompost leachate containing Bacillales strains could be used as a biocontrol agent of various pathogenic fungi, runing to a more effective and environmentally-friendly product to control those phytopathogens.

Resumen El orden Bacillales se ha descrito como antagónico de fitopatógenos, además se ha mencionado en varios estudios algunas especies de este orden se encuentra en lixiviados de lombricomposta. En el presente estudio se evaluó el efecto antagónico de cinco cepas del orden Bacillales aisladas de lixiviados de lombricomposta sobre el crecimiento micelial de Phytophthora capsici, Fusarium oxysporum, Alternaria solani, y Rhizopus sp. Se aislaron e identificaron cinco cepas bacterianas por características morfológicas y bioquímicas de los lixiviados de lombricomposta, las cuales junto con Bacillus subtilis “tipo” se determinó el porcentaje de inhibición del crecimiento micelial. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron diferencias significativas en el porcentaje de inhibición del crecimiento micelial, siendo Bacillus licheniformis y B. badius las que mostraron los mejores resultados sobre los cinco hongos fitopatógenos evaluados. Estos resultados demuestran la presencia de cepas el orden Bacillales en los lixiviados de lombricomposta, así como su efecto antagónico de diversos hongos fitopatógenos.

Abstract Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the cereals with the largest area planted worldwide due to its importance in food and feed. There are many etiological agents that cause diseases in maize plants; however, Fusarium verticillioides (Sacc.) Nirenberg is one of the molds to which special attention has been paid to its wide distribution, especially in tropical and subtropical areas, their toxigenic capacity and endurance. For this reason, the incidence of F. verticillioides and the fumonisin content in white maize grains of eleven hybrids destined for human consumption from Guárico and Yaracuy, Venezuela, were evaluated. Method: The quantification of toxigenic species was done by direct sowing whole grains and disinfected with NaClO at 3.27%, on the malt salt agar medium, expressing the results as percentages of grains colonized by total molds and by potentially toxigenic species. The fumonisin content was quantified by the immunoaffinity method with fumonisin columns (B1 + B2). Results: No significant statistical differences were observed for the incidence of F. verticillioides and the concentration of fumonisins in the samples evaluated in both. The mycobiota associated with the corn kernels were Aspergillus flavus, A. Niger, A. ochraceus, A. terreus, Eurotium chevalieri, F. verticillioides, Penicillium spp. Alternaria sp and Curvularia sp. The highest average incidence of toxigenic molds was obtained by A. flavus (24.3%), F. verticillioides (14.6%) and Penicillium sp. (4.4%) in Yaracuy; however, in Guárico were F. verticillioides (16.7%) and Penicillium spp. (13.8%). The average concentration of fumonisins in Yaracuy and Guárico was 1.8 and 8.4 μg / g, respectively, exceeding the limit allowed for human consumption (1 μg / g). Discussion: Based on the low incidence of F. verticillioides and the low levels of fumonisins detected in hybrids D1B-348 (from Guárico) and D1B-246 (from Yaracuy), it is recommended to use them in the respective states, as a measure of control of the pathogen at the field level and avoid possible contamination with fumonisins.

Resumen El maíz (Zea mays L.) es uno de los cereales con mayor superficie sembrada a nivel mundial, debido a su importancia en la alimentación humana y animal. Son muchos los agentes etiológicos que ocasionan enfermedades en la plantas de maíz; sin embargo, Fusarium verticillioides (Sacc.) Nirenberg, es uno de los mohos a los cuales se le ha prestado especial atención por su amplia distribución, especialmente en zonas tropicales y subtropicales, su capacidad toxigénica y su resistencia. Por tal motivo, se evaluó la incidencia de F. verticillioides y el contenido de fumonisinas en granos de maíz blanco de once híbridos destinados al consumo humano provenientes de los estados Guárico y Yaracuy, Venezuela. Método: La cuantificación de especies toxigénicas se realizó por siembra directa de granos enteros y desinfectados con NaClO al 3,27%, sobre el medio malta sal agar, expresando los resultados como porcentajes de granos colonizados por mohos totales y por especies potencialmente toxigénicas. El contenido de fumonisinas se cuantificó por el método inmunoquímico con columnas de inmunoafinidad para fumonisinas (B1+B2). Resultados: No se observaron diferencias estadísticas significativas para la incidencia de F. verticillioides y la concentración de fumonisinas en las muestras evaluadas en ambos estados. La micobiota asociada a los granos de maíz fueron Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus Niger, A. ochraceus, A. terreus, Eurotium chevalieri, F. verticillioides, Penicillium spp. Alternaria sp., y Curvularia sp. La mayor incidencia promedio de mohos toxigénicos la obtuvieron A. flavus (24,3%), F. verticillioides (14,6%) y Penicillium sp. (4,4%) en Yaracuy; no obstante, en Guárico fueron F. verticillioides (16,7%) y Penicillium spp. (13,8%). La concentración promedio de fumonisinas en Yaracuy y Guárico fue de 1,8 y 8,4µg/g, respectivamente, superando el límite permitido para consumo humano (1 µg/g). Discusión: Con base en la baja incidencia de F. verticillioides y los bajos contenidos de fumonisinas detectados en los híbridos D1B-348 (proveniente de Guárico) y D1B-246 (proveniente de Yaracuy), se recomienda su uso en los respectivos estados, como medida de control del patógeno a nivel de campo y evitar la posible contaminación con fumonisinas.

Plant endophytes help in maintaining plant health by means of their biofertilizer and biocontrol attributes and, are currently being explored for their ability to produce novel biologically active compounds. Herein, we have isolated beneficial endophytic bacteria from Echinacea purpurea (EF.B3) and Lonicera japonica (LS.B11) that showed phosphate solubilization, siderophore, indole acetic acid and hydrogen cyanide production, and fixation of atmospheric nitrogen. Additionally, the endophytes also conferred antifungal activity against Fusarium sp., Rhizoctonia sp., Pythium sp. and Alternaria sp. When tested in plantae, the LS.B11 and EF.B3 strains were able to promote plant growth and control fungal infections in peaseedlings. Both strains were found to be endophytic as tested by RAPD and viability count. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we show that the LS.B11 and EF.B3 strains are related to Pseudomonas sp. And Burkholderia sp. By using degenerate primers, we identified genes related to polyketide synthases and non-ribosomal peptide synthetases in EF.B3 and LS.B11, respectively that are typically involved in the production of antimicrobial compounds. Therefore, we conclude that both endophytes can be used for increasing agriculture productivity and in the production of antimicrobial compounds for crop improvement.

A termoterapia é um tratamento físico, que consiste na exposição das sementes à ação do calor em combinação com o tempo. Objetivou-se avaliar a qualidade sanitária e fisiológica de sementes de erva-doce (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.), recém-colhidas e armazenadas por três anos, submetidas à termoterapia. Foram conduzidos dois experimentos: no primeiro, a termoterapia foi realizada com sementes de erva-doce recém-colhidas obtidas de diferentes sistemas de plantio: T1 - erva-doce solteira tratada com inseticida thiamethoxam; T2 - erva-doce solteira sem aplicação do inseticida; T3 - erva-doce consorciada com algodão e tratada com inseticida; T4 - erva-doce consorciada sem aplicação do inseticida. No segundo experimento utilizaram-se sementes armazenadas por três anos obtidas de plantas tratadas e não tratadas com inseticida. As sementes foram submetidas a diferentes tempos de exposição ao calor seco (0; 3; 6; 9, 12 e 15 dias) a 70 °C. Os testes realizados foram: sanidade, germinação, primeira contagem, índice de velocidade de germinação, comprimento e massa seca de plântulas. Os sistemas de plantio não influenciaram na incidência do fungo Alternaria sp. As sementes de erva-doce armazenadas, oriundas de plantas tratadas com inseticida, possuem maior qualidade sanitária e fisiológica. O período de 12 dias de termoterapia é eficiente no controle do fungo Alternaria sp. sem proporcionar perdas na viabilidade das sementes de erva-doce.

Thermotherapy is a physical treatment consisting of the exposure of seeds to the action of heat over time. The aim was to assess the health and physiological quality of fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.), both freshly harvested and stored for three years, and submitted to thermotherapy. Two experiments were conducted. In the first, thermotherapy was carried out on freshly-harvested fennel seeds obtained under different cropping systems: T1 - Monocrop fennel treated with the insecticide, thiamethoxam; T2 - Monocrop fennel without the application of insecticide; T3 - Fennel intercropped with cotton and treated with insecticide; T4 - Intercropped fennel without the application of insecticide. In the second experiment, seeds were used which had been stored for three years and obtained from plants, both treated and untreated with insecticide. The seeds were exposed to dry heat for different periods (0, 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 days) at 70 °C. The tests performed included: health, germination, first count, speed germination index, seedling length and dry weight. The cropping systems had no influence on the incidence of the fungus Alternaria sp. Stored fennel seeds coming from plants treated with insecticide, display better health and physiological quality. A period of 12 days of thermotherapy is effective in controlling the fungus Alternaria sp. without causing losses in the viability of the fennel seeds.