ARS | Publication request: Formulation of Bacillus Spp. for Biological Control of Plant Diseases

Submitted to: American Phytopathological Society
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: August 13, 2003
Publication Date: June 20, 2003
Citation: Schisler, D.A. Formulation of Bacillus spp. for biological control of plant diseases [abstract]. Phytopathology. 93(6):S117.

Technical Abstract: Maximizing the potential for successfully developing and deploying a biological control product begins with a carefully crafted microbial screening procedure and ends with the production of a product formulation that preserves shelf-life, aids product delivery, and enhances bioactivity. Formulation of Bacillus spp. for use against plant pathogens is an enormous topic in general terms but limited in published specifics regarding formulations used in commercially available products. Formulation types include dry products such as wettable powders, dusts and granules, and liquid products including cell suspensions in water, oils, and emulsions. Cells can also be microencapsulated. Critical issues for developing successful Bacillus formulations include characterizing production processes that enhance biomass; the mode of action of the strain; the durability of the life-stage to be formulated; the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the application target; and the equipment used for field application. Solutions to these different formulation considerations will not necessarily be compatible. Data from a model system for optimizing formulation components for Fusarium head blight antagonist B. subtilis OH 131.1 (NRRL B-30212) will be used to demonstrate several of these considerations.