ABSTRACT Although plant breeding and chemical approaches contribute to disease control, they are not able to completely contain it, due to the ability of the pathogen to resist against the fungicides and may overcome the resistance offered by plants of certain genotypes. Endophytic Penicillium citrinum strains GP1 and GP3, inoculated on seeds before sowing or sprayed on leaves, reduced the severity of rice blast while improving the growth of rice plants from cultivar BRSMG Caçula. Rice seed treatment with conidia of P. citrinum GP3, prior to seeding, led to a 58% reduction of blast severity. An association of GP1 and GP3 applied via seed treatment or foliar spray decreased blast severity by 33 and 37%, respectively. The area under the disease progress curve of the treatment of seeds (T5) with GP3 was lower than other treatments. For plant growth promotion, the association of GP1 and GP3 significantly enhanced the number of tillers per plant with 11 as compared to control, 10. Microscopic analysis revealed the endophytic colonization of rice root tissues by Penicillium GP1 and GP3. The P. citrinum reduced blast in rice plants while improving their fitness.

Resumo O presente estudo foi realizado para avaliar a bioatividade dos resíduos de banana contra alguns isolados bacterianos e fúngicos, a produção de ácidos orgânicos, antioxidantes e para rastrear os fitoquímicos presentes nos resíduos de Musa acuminata (M. acuminata). Os resíduos foram processados por algumas espécies de fungos. Os ácidos orgânicos foram avaliados quanto ao rendimento por meio de HPLC. O impacto antioxidante do rendimento foi testado pelo ensaio DPPH. Análises qualitativas de fitoquímicos foram feitas após cada tratamento. Os extratos de M. acuminata (banana) apresentaram efeito moderado contra o crescimento dos microrganismos testados, porém esse efeito tornou-se muito melhor após tratamento com espécies fúngicas (Fusarium moniliforme; Rhizopus stolonifer; Aspergillus parasiticus; Alternaria alterna; Penicillium expansum e Aspergillus flavus). A concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) variou de 6,25 a 100 mg/ml, enquanto a concentração bactericida mínima (CBM) e a concentração fungicida mínima (MFC) variaram de 3,125 a 250 mg/ml. O ácido cítrico foi o ácido orgânico obtido a partir de resíduos de banana mais produzido e aumentou bastante após o tratamento com isolados fúngicos utilizados. O potencial antioxidante das folhas de M. acuminata e resíduos de pseudocaule aumentou após tratamento com extratos fúngicos, em comparação com o hidroxitolueno butilado (BHT). A triagem fitoquímica confirmou a presença de compostos ativos como glicosídeos, taninos, saponinas, fenóis, esteroides e flavonoides nos extratos de M. acuminata. Os resíduos de banana tratados com fungos podem ser utilizados como fonte para a produção de ácido cítrico, de antioxidantes e de outros compostos químicos aplicáveis em diversas áreas.

Abstract The current study was performed to evaluate the bioactivity of banana wastes against some bacterial and fungal isolates, organic acids production, antioxidant and to screen the phytochemicals were present in Musa acuminate (M. acuminate) wastes. The waste was processed by some microbial species. The organic acids were evaluated in the yield using HPLC. Antioxidant impact of the yield was tested by DPPH assay. Qualitative analysis for phytochemicals were done after each treatment. M. acuminate (Banana) extracts showed moderate effect against the growth of tested microorganisms while this effect became much better after treated with fungal species (Fusarium moniliform; Rhizopus stolonifer; Aspergillus parasiticus; Alternaria alternate; Penicillium expansum and Aspergillus flavus). The MIC ranging from 6.25 to 100 mg/ml, MBC and MFC ranging from 3.125 to 250 mg/ml. Citric acid was the most produced organic acid obtained from banana wastes and highly increased after treatment with fungal isolates used. The antioxidant potential of M. acuminata leaves and pseudostem wastes enhanced after treatment with fungal extracts relative to butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of active compounds like glycosides, tannins, saponnins, phenols, steroids and flavonoids in the M. acuminate extracts. The treated banana wastes using fungi could be used as a source of in citric acid production, antioxidant source and other chemical production to be applied in many applications.

Abstract Pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli can cause gastrointestinal infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), bacteremia, and other severe infections. Some isolates of this species are capable of producing extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) enzymes, which mediate resistance against penicillin derivates and cephalosporins. Fungi of the Ascomycota phylum are known to produce antibiotics from different classes with activity against various bacterial agents. Among them, the genera Penicillium, Cephalosporium, Acremonium and Fusidium are known for the production of antimicrobial substances such as penicillin derivates, cephalosporins and fusidic acid. Currently, the search for new antimicrobials produced by species of the Ascomycota phylum includes the assessment of less explored habitats including aquatic environments, extreme environments, and the interior of plants/animals. The genus Penicillium remains promising for the discovery of new antimicrobial substances against resistant bacteria. In addition, those fungi have also been investigated regarding their usefulness for the biosynthesis of nanoparticles with antimicrobial activity. This narrative review introduces clinically relevant Escherichia coli pathovars, the historical contributions of the phylum Ascomycota to the production of antimicrobials, aspects of bioprocesses in the production of antimicrobial metabolites and different approaches of research targeting new antimicrobials such as screenings for fungi in environments not yet studied and the green synthesis mediated by fungi with antimicrobial activity.

RESUMO: A qualidade das sementes é uma característica essencial para a reprodução das espécies. Cenostigma pyramidalis apresenta características importantes para fins de recuperação de áreas degradadas. No entretanto, por ser encontrada na Caatinga, esta espécie tende a ser mais propensa à infecção por fitopatógenos. Portanto, é importante tratar tais sementes para evitar a incidência dos fungos antes e após o plantio. Uma dessas alternativa é o uso do silício que pode contribuir com o aumento do vigor e no controle de doenças. Neste cenário, objetivou-se avaliar diferentes fontes de silício no controle de fungos de ocorrência natural associados às sementes de C. pyramidalis, e sua qualidade fisiológica. O experimento foi desenvolvido no Laboratório de Fitopatologia, da Universidade Federal da Paraíba, Campus II, Areia-PB. As sementes, após escarificação para superação de dormência foram tratadas com: T1 - Controle; T2 - Captana, T3 - Agrosilício plus®; T4 - Rocksil®; T5 - Sifol®; T6 - Chelal®; T7 - Bugram®. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. As sementes foram submetidas aos testes de sanidade, germinação e emergência. Foram utilizadas 100 sementes por tratamento para os testes de germinação e emergência em quatro repetições cada um com 25 sementes, enquanto para o teste de sanidade foram utilizadas 10 repetições de 10 sementes cada. Todas as fontes de silício foram eficientes no controle dos fungos Aspergillus spp., Cladosporium sp. e Penicillium sp. em sementes de C. pyramidalis. O tratamento com Sifol® é recomendado para controlar a incidência de fungos sem afetar a qualidade fisiológica das sementes.

ABSTRACT Seed quality is an essential characteristic for species reproduction. In this scenario, Cenostigma pyramidalis has important characteristics for the purpose of recovering degraded areas. However, because it is found in the Caatinga, this species tends to be more prone to infection by phytopathogens. Therefore, it is important to treat its seeds to prevent the incidence of fungi before and after planting. One of these alternatives is the use of silicon, which can contribute to increased vigor and disease control. In this scenario, the objective was to evaluate different sources of silicon in the control of naturally occurring fungi associated with C. pyramidalis seeds, and their physiological quality. The experiment was carried out at the Phytopathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Paraíba, Campus II, Areia, PB, Brazil. The seeds, after scarification to overcome dormancy, were treated with: T1 - Control; T2 - Captana, T3 - Agrosilício plus®; T4 - Rocksil®; T5 - Sifol®; T6 - Chelal®; and T7 - Bugram®. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design. The seeds were subjected to sanitary, germination, and emergence tests. 100 seeds were used per treatment for the germination and emergence tests in four replicates each with 25 seeds, while for the health test 10 replicates of 10 seeds each were used. All silicon sources were efficient in controlling Aspergillus spp., Cladosporium sp., and Penicillium sp. fungi in C. pyramidalis seeds. The treatment with Sifol® is recommended to control the incidence of fungi without affecting the physiological quality of seeds.

RESUMO Patógenos em sementes de feijão-fava cultivado por agricultores familiares no Nordeste do Brasil causam grandes perdas e podem inviabilizar áreas de plantio, sendo fundamental a busca por alternativas de controle que não prejudiquem o meio ambiente. Objetivou-se avaliar a eficiência de óleos essenciais de capim-limão, citronela, erva-doce, eucalipto e manjericão no controle de patógenos e na qualidade fisiológica de sementes de variedades tradicionais de feijão-fava. Foram utilizadas 200 sementes por tratamento das variedades Caramelo, Raio de Sol Amarela e Raio de Sol Vermelha. A qualidade fisiológica das sementes foi determinada com base em testes de germinação, emergência e vigor. Os seguintes gêneros de fungos foram identificados: Aspergillus, Penicillium e Fusarium. Os óleos essenciais apresentaram ação antifúngica sobre os patógenos, além de incrementar a germinação, emergência, comprimento e massa seca da raiz e parte aérea, bem como o índice de velocidade de emergência, sem interferir no vigor das sementes.

ABSTRACT Pathogens in lima bean seeds grown by family farmers in the Northeast region of Brazil cause great losses and can make planting areas unviable, making it essential to search for control alternatives that do not harm the environment. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of lemongrass, citronella, fennel, eucalyptus and basil essential oils in controlling pathogens and the seed physiological quality of traditional lima bean varieties. Two hundred seeds of the Caramelo, Raio de Sol Amarela and Raio de Sol Vermelha varieties were used per treatment. The seed physiological quality was determined based on germination, emergence and vigor tests. The following fungal genera were identified: Aspergillus, Penicillium and Fusarium. The essential oils showed antifungal effects on the pathogens, in addition to increasing the germination, emergence, shoot and root length and dry mass, as well as the emergence speed index, without interfering with seed vigor.

RESUMO Penicillium Link é um gênero de ascomicetos amplamente conhecido, com distribuição mundial, conhecido principalmente por seu uso na indústria alimentícia e produção de micotoxinas. Considerando a importância das coleções de culturas como repositórios da biodiversidade microbiana, realizamos uma revisão taxonômica polifásica de fungos do gênero Penicillium preservados na Coleção de Microrganismos de Interesse Agrossilvicultural do Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia (CMAI-INPA) no Brasil, que abriga vários depósitos de Penicillium sem identificação específica. Um total de 150 linhagens foi reativado para análises macro e micromorfológicas e extração, amplificação e sequenciamento de DNA. As linhagens foram representadas por nove espécies distribuídas entre as sessões Citrina (P. citrinum), Charlesia (P. chermesinum), Chrysogena (P. chrysogenum, P. rubens), Aspergilloides (P. glabrum), Sclerotiorum (P. meliponae), Fasciculata (P. palitans, P. polonicum) e Roquefortorum (P. paneum). Uma linhagem é aqui descrita como Penicillium carneiroi sp. nov., uma nova espécie na seção Exilicaulis. Apresentamos imagens da nova espécie e a comparamos com outras espécies morfologicamente próximas. A revisão taxonômica polifásica realizada neste estudo mostrou uma diversidade previamente desconhecida para a região amazônica, e que repositórios de microrganismos podem conter novas espécies ou registros para a região.

ABSTRACT Penicillium Link is a widely known genus of ascomycetes, with a worldwide distribution, mainly known for its use in the food industry and production of mycotoxins. Considering the importance of culture collections as repositories of microbial biodiversity, we carried out a polyphasic taxonomic review of fungi of the genus Penicillium preserved in the Collection of Microorganisms of Agrosilvicultural Interest at the National Institute for Amazonian Research (CMAI-INPA) in Brazil, which hosts several deposits of Penicillium without specific identification. A total of 150 strains were reactivated for macro and micromorphological analyses and DNA extraction, amplification and sequencing. The strains were represented by nine species distributed among the sessions Citrina (P. citrinum), Charlesia (P. chermesinum), Chrysogena (P. chrysogenum, P. rubens), Aspergilloides (P. glabrum), Sclerotiorum (P. meliponae), Fasciculata (P. palitans, P. polonicum) and Roquefortorum (P. paneum). One strain is herein described as Penicillium carneiroi sp. nov., a new species in the section Exilicaulis. We present images of the new species and compare it with other morphologically close species. The polyphasic taxonomic review carried out in this study showed a previously unknown diversity for the Amazon region, and that microorganism repositories may contain new species or records for the region.

Resumen Introducción. La producción de banano es una de las actividades económicas más significativas para el país. Sin embargo, enfrenta serios desafíos debido a la presencia de diversos patógenos, entre los más significativos se encuentran los nematodos fitoparásitos que afectan el rendimiento y la calidad del cultivo. El uso de hongos nematófagos (HN) para el control biológico de nematodos es una alternativa para reducir la aplicación de productos químicos en cultivos agrícolas. En Costa Rica existe gran variedad de hongos debido a la diversidad de los suelos, por lo que el aislamiento y la correcta identificación de estos hongos es crucial para determinar su potencial antagonista. Objetivo. Aislar e identificar potenciales hongos nematófagos (PHN) presentes en muestras de suelo de plantaciones de banano de la región Huetar Atlántica. Materiales y métodos. Se analizaron seis muestras de suelo provenientes de cinco cantones de la región Huetar Atlántica de Costa Rica mediante el método de espolvoreado en placas con agar-agua en búsqueda de PHN. Para la selección y purificación de los PHN se utilizaron placas Petri con papa dextrosa agar (PDA), identificando las estructuras morfológicas para el diagnóstico a nivel de género. Los hongos identificados morfológicamente se replicaron y se conservaron en viales con PDA y en aceite mineral a 4°C. Se extrajo ADN de los PHN y mediante amplificación por PCR (Reacción de Cadena de la Polimerasa) y secuenciación de diferentes regiones del genoma (ITS, tef 1-alfa, rpb2 y β-tubulina), se identificaron molecularmente. Resultados. Se aislaron e identificaron doce hongos, entre ellos Trichoderma asperellum, Penicillium steckii, Purpureocillium lilacinum, Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium sp., Fusarium pseudocircinatum, y Talaromyces sp. Conclusión. El descubrimiento e identificación correcta de PHN subraya la importancia de investigar su aplicación en programas de manejo integrado de plagas, así como la necesidad de evaluar su eficacia y seguridad en diferentes condiciones agroecológicas para maximizar su impacto positivo en la agricultura.

Abstract Introduction. Banana production is one of the most significant economic activities for the country. However, it faces serious challenges due to the presence of various pathogens, among the most significant are plant-parasitic nematodes that affect crop yield and quality. The use of nematophagous fungi (NF) for biological control of nematodes is an alternative to reduce the application of synthetic chemicals in agricultural crops. In Costa Rica there is a great variety of fungi due to the diversity of soils. Therefore, the isolation and correct identification of these fungi is crucial to determine their antagonistic potential. Objective. To isolate and identify the potential nematophagous fungi (PNF) present in soil samples from banana plantations at the Huetar Atlantic region. Materials and methods. Six soil samples from the Huetar Atlantic region of Costa Rica were analyzed by the agar-water sprinkling plates method in search of PNF. For PNF selection and purification, Petri dishes with potato dextrose agar (PDA) were used, identifying morphological structures for diagnosis at genus level. Morphologically identified fungi were replicated and preserved in vials with PDA and in mineral oil at 4°C. DNA was extracted from the isolated PNF and through PCR amplification (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and sequencing of different regions of the genome (ITS, tef 1-alpha, rpb2 and β-tubulin), they were molecularly identified. Results. Twelve fungi were isolated and identified, including Trichoderma asperellum, Penicillium steckii, Purpureocillium lilacinum, Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium sp., Fusarium pseudocircinatum, and Talaromyces sp. Conclusion. The correct discovery and identification of PNF underscores the importance of investigating its application in integrated pest management programs, as well as the need to evaluate its efficacy and safety under different agroecological conditions to maximize its positive impact on agriculture.

Resumen Introducción. El “moho verde” causado por Penicillium digitatum es uno de los problemas fitosanitarios que limita la producción en los cítricos. Para su control se utilizan fungicidas sintéticos, que han perdido eficacia, debido a la resistencia generada por el hongo. Una alternativa, es el uso de hongos endófitos con acción biocontroladora. Objetivo. Evaluar el efecto de metabolitos secundarios (MS) de hongos endófitos (HE) en la inhibición micelial de Penicillium digitatum y la eficacia de control de la enfermedad, en frutos de mandarina (Citrus reticulata) después de la cosecha. Materiales y métodos. El estudio se realizó en 2022, bajo un diseño experimental completo al azar, en el laboratorio de Sanidad Vegetal, Universidad Nacional de Cañete (UNDC), Lima, Perú. Para la prueba de antibiosis se extrajeron los metabolitos secundarios de diez cepas de HE de los géneros Trichoderma sp., Fusarium sp. y Aspergillus sp., en donde se evaluó la inhibición micelial del patógeno (%). Se asperjaron MS a una concentración del 15 % (v/v) sobre frutos de mandarina que fueron desinfectados e inoculados con el patógeno por aspersión (1x105 UFC/cc). Adicionalmente, se utilizaron un biocontrol comercial, un aceite vegetal y un fungicida. Después de 6 y 9 días, se evaluaron la incidencia (%) y el índice de severidad (0,1,2,3) de la enfermedad. Resultados. Los metabolitos secundarios de las cepas HEA-111 (Aspergillus), HEA-109 (Fusarium) y HSA-1 (Trichoderma) presentaron la mayor inhibición micelial con 95,05 %, 87,51 % y 47,47 %, respectivamente. En los frutos de mandarina tratados con los MS de las cepas HEA-109 y HSA-1, hubo un control del 80 % y 55 %, respectivamente. Conclusiones. Los MS de HE tuvieron efecto en la inhibición micelial de P. digitatum y redujeron el avance de la enfermedad en frutos de mandarina después de la cosecha.

Abstract Introduction. “Green mold,” caused by Penicillium digitatum is one of the phytosanitary issues that limits citrus production. For its control, synthetic fungicides are used, which have lost effectiveness due to resistance developed by the fungus. An alternative is the use of endophytic fungi with biocontrol action. Objective. To evaluate the effect of secondary metabolites (SM) from endophytic fungi (EF) on the mycelial inhibition of Penicillium digitatum and the effectiveness of disease control in mandarin fruits (Citrus reticulata) post-harvest. Materials and methods. The study was conducted in 2022, using a completely randomized experimental design in the Plant Health Laboratory at the Universidad Nacional de Cañete (UNDC), Lima, Peru. For the antibiosis test, secondary metabolites were extracted from ten strains of EF from the genera Trichoderma sp., Fusarium sp., and Aspergillus sp., where mycelial inhibition of the pathogen (%) was evaluated. SMs were sprayed at 15 % (v/v) concentration on mandarin fruits that were disinfected and inoculated with the pathogen by spraying (1x 105 CFU/cc). Additionally, a commercial biocontrol, a vegetable oil, and a fungicide were used. After 6 and 9 days, disease incidence (%) and severity index (0, 1, 2, 3) were evaluated. Results. Secondary metabolites from strains the HEA-111 (Aspergillus), HEA-109 (Fusarium), and HSA-1 (Trichoderma) showed the highest mycelial inhibition with 95.05 %, 87.51 %, and 47.47 %, respectively. In mandarin fruits treated with SMs from strains HEA-109 and HSA-1, there was a control of 80 % and 55 %, respectively. Conclusions. SMs from EF were effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth of P. digitatum and reduces disease progression in mandarin fruits post-harvest.

Abstract Endophytic fungi [EF] are microorganisms that reside within plant tissues without causing apparent damage. They play a role in synthesizing growth-regulating substances, nitrogen fixation, protection against pathogens, and other benefits for plants. In this study, we evaluated the capacity of Indole Acetic Acid [IAA] production and phosphate solubilization in four strains of EF isolated from roots of Araucaria Araucana, and assessed their effect on the growth promotion of Nicotiana tabacum, as a model plant. Fungi were identified as Phialocephala fortinii (strain E-1), Penicillium melinii (strain E-13), Umbelopsis dimorpha (strain E-14), and Preussia cymatomera (strain E-36). The concentration of IAA was determined using the Salkowski method using potato dextrose broth [PDB] supplemented with 10 mg L-1 L-tryptophan, as a precursor for IAA synthesis. The yield was expressed in mg L-1. The capacity of phosphate solubilization was determined in Pikovskaya solid medium through the evaluation of halos formed in the medium and calculating the relative solubilization efficiency ratio [RSE]. Finally, we evaluated the effect of EF in a co-culture with N. tabacum seedlings under in vitro conditions measuring aerial and root biomass of the seedlings. The highest values for IAA and RSE were observed in the case of U. dimorpha (52.29 and 3.36 mg L-1, respectively). All fungi used promoted the growth of both aerial and root biomass of N. tabacum plants under in vitro conditions, obtaining the highest production of total dry biomass (aerial and root) with U. dimorpha, with a value of 188.5 mg, which was significantly higher (p < 0,01) than that of control plants (8.85 mg). Our findings suggest that EF isolated from A. araucana has the potential to promote plant growth and provide benefits to plants through the production of phytohormones.

Resumen Los hongos endófitos [HE] son microorganismos que viven dentro de las plantas sin causar daño aparente, y colaboran en la síntesis de sustancias reguladoras del crecimiento, fijación de nitrógeno, protección contra patógenos, entre otros beneficios para las plantas. En este estudio se determinó la capacidad de producción de ácido indol acético [AIA] y de solubilización de fosfato, en cuatro cepas de HE aislados desde raíces de Araucaria araucana y se evaluó su efecto sobre la promoción del crecimiento en Nicotiana tabacum, utilizada como planta modelo. Los hongos fueron identificados como Phialocephala fortinii (cepa E-1), Penicillium melinii (cepa E-13), Umbelopsis dimorpha (cepa E-14) y Preussia cymatomera (cepa E-36). El AIA fue determinado utilizando el método de Salkowski, usando caldo de papa dextrosa [CPD] suplementado con 10 mg L-1 de L-triptófano, como precursor para la síntesis de AIA, y la producción fue expresada en mg L-1. La solubilización de fosfato fue determinada en medio sólido Pikovskaya, evaluando los halos formados en el medio y calculando el índice de eficiencia relativa de solubilización [ERS]. Finalmente, la estimulación del crecimiento vegetal por los HE en un co-cultivo con las plántulas de N. tabacum, en condiciones in vitro, fue evaluada a través de la producción de biomasa aérea y radicular de las plántulas. Los mayores valores de AIA y ERS fueron obtenidos con U. dimorpha (52,29 y 3,36 mg L-1, respectivamente). Los hongos utilizados promovieron el crecimiento de la biomasa aérea y radicular de las plantas de N. tabacum en condiciones in vitro, obteniéndose la mayor producción de biomasa seca total (aérea y radicular) con U. dimorpha, con 188,5 mg, valor significativamente mayor (p < 0,01) que el de las plantas control (8,85 mg). A través de este estudio se infiere que los HE aislados de A. araucana promueven el crecimiento vegetal y brindan beneficios para las plantas mediante la producción de fitohormonas.

Abstract The discovery of penicillin is a widely known scientific event with great impact in the modern world. Who has not heard about Alexander Fleming's discovery? His brilliant observation of the inhibition of bacterial colonies in a Petri dish by a fungus of the genus Penicillium that accidentally fell on it has become a paradigm of genius and scientific discovery. An alternative view of this discovery is proposed in this historical note. For this purpose, the work carried out by the young French doctor Ernest Duchesne is used as a basis. He published his thesis entitled "Contribution to the study of vital competition in microorganisms: antagonism between molds and microbes", in 1897.

Resumen El descubrimiento de la penicilina es un evento científico ampliamente conocido y de gran repercusión en el mundo moderno ¿Quién no ha escuchado alguna vez sobre el descubrimiento de Alexander Fleming? Su célebre observación de la inhibición de colonias bacterianas en una placa de Petri por un hongo del género Penicillium, que cayó accidentalmente sobre ella, ha pasado a ser un paradigma de genialidad y descubrimiento científico. Se plantea en esta nota histórica una visión alternativa sobre este descubrimiento. Para ello, se utiliza como base el trabajo realizado con anterioridad por el joven médico francés Ernest Duchesne, quien publicó su tesis titulada "Contribución al estudio de la competición vital en microorganismos: antagonismo entre mohos y microbios", en 1897.

Resumen En este trabajo se identifican los compuestos químicos presentes en los aceites esenciales de cinco especies de frailejones y se evaluó su actividad biológica frente a diferentes microorganismos. Los aceites esenciales de las hojas frescas de Espeletia argentea, Espeletia barclayana, Espeletia killipii, Espeletia summapacis y Espeletiopsis corymbosa fueron extraídos por hidrodestilación. La composición química de los aceites esenciales fue determinada mediante cromatografía de gases acoplada a espectrometría de masas (GC-MS). Los aceites esenciales de algunas de las especies fueron evaluados frente a hongos (Fusarium sp., Chaetomium sp., Botrytis sp., Penicillium sp., Alternaria sp.), la bacteria Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, así como frente a la levadura Candida sp. mediante el método de difusión en agar. Los compuestos mayoritarios identificados en los aceites esenciales fueron α-pineno, β-pineno, sabineno, p-cimeno, limoneno, α- y β-felandreno. Por otra parte, los aceites esenciales de cuatro especies de Espeletia mostraron actividad frente a Fusarium sp. y Chaetomium sp. en comparación con un control comercial. Además, los aceites de E. argentea y E. corymbosa fueron evaluados posteriormente frente a cepas de Botrytis sp., Penicillium sp. y Alternaria sp. Se encontró que el aceite esencial de E. argentea tiene un porcentaje de inhibición del 30% al 80% en las cepas evaluadas.

Abstract This study identifies the chemical compounds present in the essential oils of five species of frailejones and evaluates their biological activity against various microorganisms. The essential oils from the fresh leaves of Espeletia argentea, Espeletia barclayana, Espeletia killipii, Espeletia summapacis, and Espeletiopsis corymbosa were extracted through hydrodistillation. The chemical composition of the essential oils was determined using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The essential oils of some species were tested against fungi (Fusarium sp., Chaetomium sp., Botrytis sp., Penicillium sp., Alternaria sp.) and the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, as well as the yeast Candida sp., using the agar diffusion method. The major compounds identified in the essential oils were α-pinene, β-pinene, sabinene, p-cymene, limonene, and α- and β-phellandrene. Additionally, the essential oils of four Espeletia species exhibited activity against Fusarium sp. and Chaetomium sp. when compared to a commercial control. Furthermore, the oils of E. argentea and E. corymbosa were subsequently tested against strains of Botrytis sp., Penicillium sp., and Alternaria sp. It was found that the essential oil of E. argentea exhibited inhibition rates ranging from 30% to 80% against the tested strains.

Resumen En muchos cultivos agrícolas, los hongos micorrícicos arbusculares coexisten e interactúan con hongos saprófitos. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar los efectos de dos fosfohongos de vida silvestre sobre el crecimiento de papas co-inoculadas con Claroideoglomus claroideum. Se trasfirieron plántulas de papa nativa micropropagadas a suelo Andisol estéril previamente inoculado con C. claroideum, y subsecuentemente con dos hongos saprófitos. Los tratamientos fueron: C. claroideum (T0), C. claroideum + Talaromyces pinophilus (T1), C. claroideum + Penicillium albidum (T2) y C. claroideum + T. pinophilus + P. albidum (T3). En la cosecha, los resultados más relevantes mostraron que el T3 incrementó la altura, el peso seco de los brotes, la longitud de las raíces y la absorción de P en las plántulas de papa. El peso seco y el P absorbido por los minitubérculos incrementaron al doble y triple, respectivamente, en comparación con el T0; además, aumentó la longitud de las raíces más delgadas. Se concluye que la co-inoculación de dicha asociación de hongos podría ser una alternativa favorable para su uso como bioinoculante por productores de semillas de tubérculos de papa en la agricultura sustentable.

Abstract In many agricultural crops, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi co-exist and interact with saprophytic fungi. This study aimed to analyze the effects of two free-living phosphofungi on the growth of potatoes co-inoculated with Claroideoglomus claroideum. Micropropagated native potato plantlets were transferred to a sterile Andisol previously inoculated with C. claroideum and subsequently two saprophytic fungi. The treatments were: C. claroideum (T0), C. claroideum + Talaromyces pinophilus (T1), C. claroideum + Penicillium albidum (T2), and C. claroideum + T. pinophilus + P. albidum (T3). At harvest, the most relevant results show that in T3 the height, shoot dry weight, root length and P acquisition of the potato plants were increased. Therefore, dry weight and P absorbed by minitubers were enhanced two and three-fold, respectively, compared with T0, along with an increase in the length of the thinnest roots. It is concluded that co-inoculation of this fungal consortium could be an advantageous alternative to be used as a bioinoculant by potato tuber seed producers in sustainable agriculture.

RESUMEN Peperomia subspathulata Yunck es una planta aromática de la familia Piperaceae. Es una especie nativa de Colombia y Ecuador. Se usa en la preparación de alimentos por su aroma y ha sido usada tradicionalmente para tratar golpes y heridas. En el presente estudio se evaluó el aceite esencial y el extracto etanólico de las partes aéreas de P. subspathulata frente a Aspergillus sp., Botrytis sp. y Penicillium sp. El aceite esencial fue obtenido por hidrodestilación y su composición fue analizada por cromatografía de gases acoplada a espectrometría de masas. El extracto etanólico se obtuvo por maceración con etanol al 96%. Los ensayos de actividad antifúngica fueron realizados en un medio de agar dextrosa papa al cual se le adicionaron diferentes concentraciones del aceite esencial o extracto. Los compuestos mayoritarios identificados en el aceite esencial fueron safrol (44,3%), α-bisabolol (24,2%), miristicina (4,7%), trans-β-cariofileno (3,0%), viridifloreno (3,0%), α-humuleno (2,3%), trans-nerolidol (1.5%), linalol (1,1%), metileugenol (1,1%) y cis-farneseno (1,0%). El contenido de fenoles totales del extracto etanólico se determinó por el método de Folin-Ciocalteu (48,5±0,5 mg EAG/g de extracto). El extracto etanólico y el aceite esencial inhibieron el crecimiento de los microorganismos. El aceite esencial fue el más efectivo frente a Botrytis sp. (CMI=500 µg mL-1) y Aspergillus (CMI=1.000 µg mL-1).

ABSTRACT Peperomia subspathulata Yunck is an aromatic plant of the Piperaceae family. This species is native to Colombia and Ecuador. It is used in food preparation for its aroma and has been traditionally used to treat blows and wounds. The present study evaluated the essential oil and the ethanolic extract of aerial parts from P. subspathulata against Aspergillus sp., Botrytis sp., and Penicillium sp. The essential oil was obtained by hydrodistillation, and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry analyzed its composition. The ethanolic extract was obtained by maceration with ethanol 96%. The antifungal activity tests were conducted in a potato dextrose agar medium which different concentration of essential oil and extract were added. The main components identified in the essential oil were safrole (44.3%), α-bisabolol (24.2%), myristicin (4.7%), trans-β-caryophyllene (3.0%), viridiflorene (30%), α-humulene (2.3%), trans-nerolidol (1.5%), linalool (1.1%), methyleugenol (1.1%) and cis-farnesene (1.0%). The total phenolic content of the ethanolic extract was determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu method (48.5±0.5 mg gallic acid equivalent GAE/g of extract). The ethanolic extract and the essential oil inhibited the growth of microorganisms. The essential oil was the most effective against Botrytis sp. (MIC=500 µg mL-1) and Aspergillus (MIC=1,000 µg mL-1).

Abstract Worldwide more than 7 billion tons of lignocellulosic biomass will be produced by 2025. In Colombia, these residues are mainly disposed of in rivers and open fields, and only 10% is reused and recycled. Non-centrifugal sugarcane bagasse (SCB) is a residue obtained after sugarcane juice extraction during the manufacturing process of panela and is mostly used as fuel for boilers at sugar mills. Wheat bran (WB) is the main waste from wheat flour production. Nonetheless, the chemical composition of these by-products makes them suitable for use as substrates for hemicellulolytic enzyme production from fungi. Here, a whole process for production in a solid-state fermentation system, recovery, and ultrafiltration process for concentration of xylanases by Penicillium sp. Pn004 is presented. The higher productivity (26.7 ± 1.59 U gds-1 day-1) was reached on the fifth day of fermentation with an enzyme activity of 130.0 ± 7.95 U gds-1. The batch ultrafiltration process allowed increasing the xylanase activity up to 19-fold in the retentate, from 66.47 U mL-1 to 1486.83 U mL-1, without reaching a steady state flux through the membrane. Finally, the enzymatic extract achieved a 43% release of sugar from kikuyu grass (Cenchrus clandestinus), showing its potential to be used as an additive for silage or for enzymatic saccharification of lignocellulosic materials for sugar production.

Abstract Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) is the second most produced mushroom globally, but increased production is linked to new diseases. This study reports the first occurrence of Penicillium brevicompactum on P. ostreatus mushrooms. Symptoms, identified in the primordia, include atrophy, malformation, drying, and sporulation, causing up to 100% losses. The pathogen was confirmed with 99% identity via ITS region analysis and phylogenetic comparison. The research highlights P. brevicompactum’s infection of mushroom primordia, emphasizing the need for pathogen identification and preventive measures to mitigate production losses.