ARS | Publication request: BIOLOGICAL CONTROL AGENTS: DO THEY HAVE A ROLE IN CITRUS PACKINGHOUSES?

Submitted to: Packinghouse Newsletter
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: July 1, 2005
Publication Date: July 26, 2005
Repository URL: http://www.ars.usda.gov/sp2UserFiles/Place/66210000/Reprint953.pdf
Citation: Narciso, J.A. 2005. Biological control agents: do they have a role in citrus packinghouses?. Packinghouse Newsletter. 200:1-3.

Technical Abstract: Biological control agents are often used as part of an Integrated Pest Management strategy. There are many biocontrol agents available: some are very disease specific and some are more directed at general plant pathogen problems. In this study, a biocontrol agent (Bio-Save) was used to test its efficiency against decay by a wound pathogen (e.g. Penicillium) commonly found in citrus. The Bio-Save organism (Pseudomonas syringae) was found to control decay for short periods in storage. As this product is certified organic, it has applications for incorporation into organic packinghouse lines.