Genomic/transcriptomic studies to optimize the biocontrol effect of Stenotrophomonas rhizophila.

The genus Stenotrophomonas is of high medical, ecological and biotechnological interest due to the versatility of the different species. For example, Stenotrophomonas rhizophila is a model for a rhizosphere- and phylloplane-competent, salt-tolerant biocontrol agent. One of the most effective strains S. rhizophila DSM 14405T showed biocontrol activity on various crops (e.g. pepper, oilseed rape, cucumber) under salinated conditions in greenhouse and field trials. Strain DSM 14405T does not only show rhizosphere competence and antagonistic activity; it also produces high amounts of osmoprotective substances allowing it to survive under saline conditions. New insights into its mode of action are presented from transcriptomic studies based on the genome. Furthermore, this information will be used to optimise the fermentation, formulation and efficiency of the biocontrol agent.