Abstract

The object of this study was to characterize Bacillus strains GB-017 and GB-0356, which produce antifungal substances, especially for plant pathogens. In addition, this study was undertaken to characterize the culture conditions required for the production of antifungal substances and to document some of the properties of the antifungal substance produced by these soil-isolated strains. Strains GB-0365 and GB-017 were found to be bacillus-shaped, gram-positive and motile, and to inhibit Botrytis cineria, Fusarium sp., Pythium sp., and Rhizoctonia solani. Antagonistic activity was maintained up to pH 9.0, and the antifungal activity was stable to heat at 80oC for 1 h. Antifungal substances were separated and purified using ion exchange and adsorption columns including WK-10(H^+) (pH 7.0), HP-20 column (pH 3.0) and IPA (pH 3.0). and IPA. Its UV absorption spectrum showed major peaks at 231 and 259 nm, corresponding to polyene and lactone. A fast atom bombardment mass spectrum (FAB MS) showed a highest peak at 441 m/z and major peaks at 192, 205, and 370 m/z.

• Keywords: Bacillus; antagonistics; antifungal substance; biocontrol