Project Number: 3620-22410-015-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: May 09, 2012
End Date: May 08, 2017

Objective:
Objective 1: Optimize fermentation and formulation protocols for selected biocontrol strains to produce products with enhanced field efficacy, consistency, and compatibility with integrated pest management methodologies. Objective 2: Elucidate selected interactions among host, biocontrol agent, and pathogen on plant surfaces using physiochemical, proteomic, and/or genomic characterization of the host or agent to guide development of effective agent production and formulation technologies. The encompassing goal of this project is to improve biocontrol agent product performance by both optimizing agent fermentation, formulation, and deployment protocols; and by elucidating agent, pathogen, and host interactions on plant surfaces in order to optimize antagonist colonization of host surfaces, efficacy in reducing disease and utility in integrated pest management environments. Results from research conducted in each of these key areas will be of value in meeting each individual objective as well as providing data that reciprocally provides leads and concepts that enhance the advancement of the science conducted under the other individual objective. Our Agricultural Research Service (ARS) research team possesses a unique blend of expertise and interactive research experience in plant pathology, biochemistry, and molecular biology to draw on in completing this research. Additionally, collaborators within ARS, at Universities, and within the agricultural business community have committed to providing critical skill-sets that will be instrumental in meeting our overall research goal.

Approach:
Objective 1: Optimize fermentation and formulation protocols for selected biocontrol strains to produce products with enhanced field efficacy, consistency, and compatibility with integrated pest management methodologies. Objective 2: Elucidate selected interactions among host, biocontrol agent, and pathogen on plant surfaces using physiochemical, proteomic, and/or genomic characterization of the host or agent to guide development of effective agent production and formulation technologies.