Evaluation of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens TV-17C as a potential biocontrol agent for controlling postharvest Penicillium digitatum on orange

Postharvest diseases in fruits result in significant losses in the agricultural sector. Among these, green mould, caused by Penicillium digitatum, poses a considerable threat to citrus fruits. This study evaluated the potential of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain TV-17C as a biological control agent for managing green mould in oranges. Various concentrations of TV-17C in aqueous suspension were applied to naturally infected orange fruits in the packinghouse at two locations (Hatay and Mersin provinces), while the chemical fungicide fludioxonil 230 SC served as a positive control. The application of B. amyloliquefaciens TV-17C at the dosage of 250 mL 100 L⁻¹ reduced green mould incidence by 90.3% and 89.8% in Hatay and Mersin provinces, respectively. Similarly, fludioxonil 230 SC displayed an efficacy of 91.4% in reducing disease incidence. In summary, this study underscores the potential of B. amyloliquefaciens TV-17C as an efficient biocontrol agent against green mould in oranges. Moreover, a positive correlation between higher concentrations and enhanced efficacy was evident. These findings hold promise for the adoption of sustainable disease management practices in the postharvest citrus industry.