Isolation and characterisation of endophytic bacteria from cherimoya (Annona cherimola) with antagonistic effect on Colletotrichum gloeosporioides.

Cherimoya (Annona cherimola), prized for its exceptional flavour and nutritional benefits, faces significant production challenges due to pests and pathogens. This study focused on isolating and identifying endophytic bacteria from cherimoya leaves with strong antagonistic activity against the fungal pathogen Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Two isolates demonstrated remarkable inhibitory effects through in vitro dual plate assays, reducing fungal growth by 62.5% and 50%. Molecular analysis identified these endophytes as Bacillus sp. and Bacillus cereus. These findings highlight the potential of these Bacillus isolates as effective biological control agents, offering a sustainable solution to manage anthracnose in cherimoya production and improve crop health.