Browsing by Author "Silva, Afonso Henriques da"
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- Evaluation of the biotechnological potential of algae extracts against anthracnose in olivesPublication . Silva, Afonso Henriques da; Félix, Carina Rafaela Faria da Costa; Lemos, Marco Filipe Loureiro; Esteves, , Ana Cristina de FragaThe olive tree (Olea europaea) is one of the most important crops in the Mediterranean region, with a significant economic, social and cultural impact, being the olive oil production a strategic sector in Portugal. However, the crop faces phytosanitary challenges, namely anthracnose, caused by species of the fungal genus Colletotrichum, which causes significant losses in fruit quality and production. Extracts from marine organisms have emerged as promising alternatives in view of the growing demand for sustainable and environmentally safe solutions. In this context, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antifungal potential of marine algae extracts against Colletotrichum sp. Extracts from five species of algae were obtained from the macroalgae Asparagopsis armata, Fucus vesiculosus and Sargassum muticum, as well as the dinoflagellate microalgae Amphidinium carterae and Coolia monotis. The initial phase included in vitro tests to assess the ability of these extracts to inhibit mycelial growth and spore germination of Colletotrichum sp. Subsequently, the most promising extracts were tested on olives, simulating the infection under close-to-real conditions. At the same time, toxicity of the extracts was evaluated to ensure their safety for the plants and fruits. The results showed that Fucus vesiculosus extracts had the highest antifungal efficacy, with 27.3% inhibition of mycelial growth in vitro and a 36.4% reduction in infection in olives. No toxicity was observed in olive leaves or fruit, further reinforcing the potential of this species. This study demonstrates the potential of seaweed extracts as biocontrol agents against fungi of the genus Colletotrichum in olive groves, contributing to the development of innovative and environmentally safe alternatives within the scope of more sustainable agriculture.