Embrapa and USP research identifies bacteria to protect wheat crops

Researchers from Embrapa and the University of São Paulo (USP) have identified bacteria that can be applied to wheat seeds to create new biological inputs. This “microbiological shield” has demonstrated the ability to reduce symptoms of root rot caused by the fungus Bipolaris sorokiniana by approximately 60%.

Unlike traditional methods, these bacteria do not eliminate the fungus from the soil. Instead, they reorganize the microbial community around the roots to create conditions that favor the plant's defense. The identified bacterial species are part of the Embrapa portfolio and may be licensed to companies for commercial product development. While the discovery opens doors for new biological inoculants, specific costs, financial returns for producers, and market availability timelines have not yet been established.