Argentine company launches microbial consortium for biocontrol of diseases

By Leonardo Gottems, Reporter for AgroPages

The Argentine company, Summabio, has developed the technology, entitled, “MBF” (Micro Bio Factory), which utilizes consortiums of microorganisms offering biostimulant, biocontrol and bioremediation effects and are obtained naturally for agricultural use. Their technological process enables the microorganisms to generate different microbial consortia, which are applied to seeds, and in a foliar way, both on extensive and intensive crops.

"Microbial consortia are a group of various microorganisms from different species that work better together rather than separately and have a very positive impact on crops," said Rodrigo Asili, who is the company’s Director of Research and Development and is responsible for major accounts at Summabio, formerly known as Biological Synthesis.

These consortia are used as seed treatment or for foliar applications, he added, stating, “In our seed treatment packs, the microorganisms include a specific microorganism for each crop, whether for soybeans, peanuts, legumes, beans and so on. In the case of grasses, we use Azospirillum brasilense.”

According to Asili, the synergistic action of the specific microorganism exerts a “positive impact on the promotion of growth, including germination energy, growth speed and nutrient availability, as well as the addition of phytohormones and other metabolic tools that enable plants to draw the nutrients they need when they need them.”

“In addition, microbial consortia offer a protection or disease control action. By the mere fact of them being present, these microorganisms can help generate bio-acid effects that can limit the growth of pathogens. They play a key role at a specific moment in the crop,” he further said.

“During foliar application on extensive crops, something similar happens as with seeds, where the subsequent effects are multiplied. Foliar biocontrol occurs by occupying the space on a leaf. If it is occupied by beneficial microorganisms, it is not occupied by pathogens, always during preventive approaches,” he further added.

According to Asili, by having a biocontrol effect lasting the entire crop cycle, overall health is achieved. “For example, by applying Bacillus subtilis with a microbial consortium during a year without considerable pressure from diseases, we may not have to apply fungicides. But whether these bio-inputs always act preventively depending on climatic conditions and whether there is a high incidence of a disease in a certain batch must be considered,” he explained.

“It should also be clarified if the adjuvants incorporated into Summabio products already have UV protectors. And in addition, these technologies must be added, as they reduce the effects caused by stress, whether hydric, saline, mechanical or phytotoxicity, and complement and enhance traditional fertilization,” he said in conclusion.