Antagonism activity to promote plant growth and health

In phytopathology, antagonism refers to the action of any organism that suppresses or interferes with the normal growth and activity of a plant pathogen, such as the main parts of bacteria or fungi.

These organisms can be used for pest control and are referred to as biological control agents in some cases. In the case of insect frass, we found two main mechanisms at work. The induced resistance (indirect) of the chitin presence triggers the plant to activate its natural defence mechanisms. And the Antibiosis produced by the enzyme chitinase is generated by microorganisms that break down the chitin. Also contributes to the mineralization and thereby the absorption of the plant.
‍
This published research called "Insect frass and exuviae to promote plant growth and health" it's a great starting point for whoever wants to find out more about how insect frass can promote an enhanced plant immunologic system. By Katherine Y. Barragán-Fonseca, Azkia Nurfikari, Els M.van de Zande, Max Wantulla, Joop J.A. van Loon, Wietsede Boer, Marcel Dicke - From Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University & Research, 6700 AA, Wageningen, The Netherlands Grupo en Conservación y Manejo de Vida Silvestre, Instituto de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia3Department of Microbial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands4Soil Biology Group, Wageningen University & Research, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands

‍

Highlights

Microbes with biocontrol or plant growth-promoting properties may reduce the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilisers and thereby support sustainable crop production.

• While the persistence and effectiveness of introduced single microbial agents in the field are often insufficient, organic soil amendments can serve as substrates to promote naturally occurring beneficial microbes.
• Insect-derived products such as exuviae and frass contain chitin and are rich in nitrogen as well as other nutrients that can improve soil quality and plant growth.
• Insect exuviae are colonised by potentially plant-protective or plant growth-promoting bacteria when added to soil.
• As the industrial production of insects for food and feed is increasing rapidly, large quantities of insect-derived products become available for soil amendment.

‍

Frass is a positive element for soil and plant growth. Microbial antagonism is only one of those. Other benefits are described and very well known in the research.

• Beneficial soil microbes
• Plant growth
• Plant resistance
• Microbial antagonism against plant pathogens and insects
• Plant reproduction

‍

If you want to employ high-quality insect frass in your produce. Visit Ecobooter to find out more about our frass product.