TITLE:
Antifungal Activity of Endophytic Yeasts against Grape Phytopathogens
AUTHORS:
Shodieva Dildora Giyosovna, Abdulmyanova Liliya Ilyasovna, Gulyamova Toshkhon Gofurovna, Turaeva Bahora Ismoilovna
KEYWORDS:
Endophytic Yeasts, Antifungal Activity, Phytopathogenic Fungi, Biocontrol, Metschnikowia, Fusarium oxysporum, Penicillium, Aspergillus, Uzbekistan Fruit Exports
JOURNAL NAME:
American Journal of Plant Sciences,
Vol.17 No.2,
February
24,
2026
ABSTRACT: In this study, the antifungal activity of endophytic yeast strains isolated from the generative parts of plants in Uzbekistan against five important phytopathogenic fungi—Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium sp1, and Penicillium sp2, was evaluated using the agar diffusion method. The results showed that strain 01 (particularly against Penicillium sp1) and strain 3 (against Fusarium oxysporum and Penicillium sp1) formed the largest inhibition zones, demonstrating broad-spectrum antifungal potential. Penicillium sp1 was the most sensitive pathogen, while Aspergillus niger proved to be the most resistant. Considering the significant growth in Uzbekistan’s fruit and vegetable exports during 2023-2025, these endophytic yeasts are promising as commercial biocontrol agents. They offer a sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides and can help reduce post-harvest losses (up to 30%).