Biological Control Technology Development: Microbiological Control of Eurasian Watermilfoil,
Abstract
Microorganisms closely bound to Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), and apparently species determined, have been selected for their ability to attack the pectin and cellulose tissues of the plant. The pectinolytic and cellulolytic capacities of the organisms are enhanced by passage through appropriate growth media. The enzyme-enriched cultures subsequently applied to the plant bring about accelerated necrosis and death within 21 days. Most recently, in an effort to compress the decay curve of treated plants and bring about more rapid decline, plants were mechanically injured prior to microbial inoculation. This process was designed to simulate: Insect damage-Injection by hypodermic; Mechanical harvesting-tissue maceration; and Mechanical harvesting-tissue shearing. Though acclelerated necrosis of Myriophyllum has been obtained by inoculation with microorganisms isolated from the plant's ecosphere, which were subsequently induced to produce enhanced quantities of lytic enzyemes, the rapidly of this process has been a matter of concern. The work described in the foregoing suggests that stressing the plants prior to inoculation may be a critical facilitating element in ensuring the most rapid infection and decay. It would indicate the merit of further investigation of stressing techniques by physiologically active agents as well as by mechanical means.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADP001788
Entities
People
- Haim B. Gunner
Organizations
- University of Massachusetts Amherst