The interaction of two different fungi, Colletotrichum graminicola and Gloeocercospora sorghi, as a biological herbicide for the control of shattercane

• Main Author: Racine, Scott R.
• Other Authors: Mitchell, James K.
• Format: Others
• Published: 2011
• Subjects: Shattercane > Control.; Colletotrichum graminicola.; Gloeocercospora sorghi.; Fungi as biological pest control agents.
• Online Access: http://cardinalscholar.bsu.edu/handle/handle/188308; http://liblink.bsu.edu/uhtbin/catkey/1372050

Greenhouse and laboratory experiments were conducted on the fungal bioherbicides Colletotrichum graminicola and Gloeocercospora sorghi on shattercane (Sorghum bicolor), to evaluate any potential interactions among and between these two plant pathogens for management of this weed. Intraspecific interactions were evaluated with back to back applications of C. gramincola or G. sorghi, and results indicate additive or no effects. Results indicate that interspecific interactions between C. graminicola and G. sorghi lower expected disease incidence when C. gramincola is applied first, while the opposite effect occurs when G. sorghi is applied first. Tank mixtures were also evaluated, and results indicate that no synergistic relationships occur when both species are applied simultaneously. When using spores in conjunction with the chemical herbicide RoundUp (a.i. glyphosate), applying spores with or before glyphosate results in decreased biomass loss, while applying glyphosate prior to spore application results in increased weed biomass loss. Data from intra- and interspecific interactions evaluated in vitro support these findings. === Department of Biology