Colletotrichum coccodes (Wallr.) Hughes, a foliar pathogen of velvetleaf, is being developed as a bioherbicide. Formulation of living organisms for use as pest control products presents unique problems. This research has achieved the development of an adequate formulation of the pathogen by using kaolin clay or talcum powder (1:2.79 wt/wt) as the fillers to dry conidia. Formulated C. coccodes conidia stored at 4, 30C, or at room temperature in bags permeable to oxygen remained viable and able to infect velvetleaf plants at least six months in storage. Various reported germination stimulants increased germination of formulated conidia, although not significantly, whereas increasing concentrations of cutin resulted in subsequent decreases in germination and appressoria formation of fresh as well as formulated conidia. In controlled environment experiments, 14 day-old velvetleaf seedlings were severely diseased when stearic or oleic acids were added to conidia formulated in kaolin clay or talcum powder, respectively. Combinations of germination stimulants, cutinase and/or pectinase inducers did not significantly increase germination and appressoria formation of C. coccodes conidia. Germination of fresh and formulated conidia increased, although not significantly, with the addition of 1% sucrose.

Watson, A. K. (Supervisor)