Managing tobacco black shank disease using biochar: direct toxicity and indirect ecological mechanisms.

ABSTRACT: Black shank disease in tobacco, caused by Phytophthora nicotianae, can lead to yield losses of 30%-50% upon outbreak. Recently, biochar derived from agricultural waste has shown significant potential in controlling soil-borne diseases, though its mechanisms remain unclear. Over a 3-year observation period, we found that the incidence of black shank was significantly lower in plots amended with biochar compared with normal cultivation plots. To investigate the underlying mechanisms, we studied both the direct and indirect effects of biochar on black shank. Direct antifungal assays indicated that biochar reduced the total number of sporangia by 53.91%. Further pot experiments revealed a 62.34% reduction in the P. nicotianae population in the soil following biochar application.

SUBMITTER: Zhu X-q 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11448098 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature