The exclusive strain behind the exceptional performance of PLUVIGEA® TRIBUM
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens AH2 (CECT-7221) is one of the most advanced microbial strains in modern bioprotection. Selected for its extraordinary speed of foliar colonization and its ability to produce a powerful antifungal metabolic arsenal, this strain forms the scientific backbone of the technical efficacy of TRIBUM, the next-generation foliar biofungicide within the PLUVIGEA® line.
Its field performance, formulation stability, and biotechnological precision have positioned it as a benchmark in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs and as a key tool for high-value crops across Europe.
A strain designed to colonize first and protect for longer
Unlike other Bacillus strains more closely associated with root activity, AH2 was specifically selected for its ability to colonize aerial plant tissues: leaves, flowers, fruits, and peduncles.
Its unique biological behavior is based on three essential attributes:
- Extremely rapid establishment, capable of occupying the foliar surface within just a few hours.
- Immediate production of antifungal metabolites, including lipopeptides, hydrolytic enzymes, and siderophores.
- High persistence, maintaining activity even under variable humidity and temperature conditions.
This foliar affinity makes AH2 an optimal strain for managing pathogens such as Botrytis cinerea, Monilinia spp., and Stemphylium spp., which are responsible for significant losses in horticultural and fruit crops.
A complete and scientifically validated mode of action
The performance of B. amyloliquefaciens AH2 is explained by a triple, complementary, and synergistic mode of action:
1. Competition for space and nutrients
AH2 rapidly colonizes the plant surface and forms a dense biofilm that restricts pathogen access to the resources required for germination.
2. Production of antifungal metabolites
The strain generates multiple active compounds:
- Lipopeptides (iturin, fengycin, surfactin)
- Lytic enzymes (chitinases, proteases, and glucanases)
- Siderophores that sequester iron, halting pathogen development
This molecular arsenal directly degrades fungal membranes and structures, effectively blocking disease progression.
3. Activation of plant responses
AH2 stimulates key physiological pathways, enhancing the crop’s ability to respond to fungal pressure without forcing unnecessary processes or generating residues.
This integrated approach ensures prolonged protection for more than 21 days and significantly reduces the risk of resistance development.
Authorized crops and uses in Spain
The commercial formulation based on this strain—PLUVIGEA® TRIBUM—holds Spanish registration ES-01534 and is authorized for use in a wide range of crops:
Authorized crops
- Bulb crops and vegetables
- Strawberry
- Stone fruit trees
- Lettuce and similar leafy vegetables
- Grapevine
- Blueberry, edible-skin cucurbits, raspberry, strawberry, solanaceous crops (except potato)
Target pathogens
- Botrytis cinerea
- Monilinia spp.
- Stemphylium spp.
AH2, a new benchmark in European biocontrol
In conclusion, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens AH2 (CECT-7221) represents a technological leap forward in the biological management of plant diseases.
Its exceptional colonization speed, metabolic stability, and proven efficacy position it as one of the most complete strains for regenerative, sustainable, and residue-free agricultural systems.
Through PLUVIGEA® TRIBUM, Veganic places this exclusive strain at the service of the farmer, driving a faster, more precise form of bioprotection fully aligned with regenerative agriculture.
