Production, isolation, and antifungal activity of scytalidin, a metabolite of Scytalidium species

Abstract

The production and isolation of scytalidin, a recently reported metabolite of Scytalidium sp., are described. The compound was found to be relatively active in vitro against many fungi associated with stain and decay of pulpwood chips in outside storage and decay in the roots and butts of conifers. Other fungi associated with diseases of trees and deterioration of forest products were also found to be sensitive to scytalidin. Seed germination tests indicated relatively low phytotoxicity.

Biological control of Eutypa armeniacae. II. Studies of the interaction between E. armeniacae and Fusarium lateritium, and their relative sensitivities to benzimidazole chemicals

“…Ricard and Bollen (1968) found that a species of Scytalidium isolated from Douglas fir poles showed marked inhibition of Poria carbonicum Overh., a basidiomycete frequently associated with decay of Douglas fir poles, and attempted to use a strain (FY) of this organism for biological control of rot of Douglas fir poles by P. carbonica (Ricard et al 1969). Struntz et al (1972) recently isolated and identified as scytalidin a fungitoxic metabolite from culture filtrates which showed in vitro activity against a range of fungi (Stillwell et al 1973).…”

Experience with immunizing commensals

“…This phenomenon was used to devise a control method (Ricard et al, 1969). The effect observed as well as the activity against other wood-inhabiting microorganisms (Stillwell et al, 1973) could be ascribed to the presence of scytalidic acid (Overeem and Mackor, 1973) or scytalidin (Strunz et al, 1972). The stability of this antibiotic also explained the apparent long-term effect of Scytalidium inoculations (Ricard, 1975).…”

Impact and Control of Forest Diseases in Canada

“…Antibiotics obtained from microorganisms were developed in the Maritimes Forest Research Centre for testing against the causal fungus of Dutch elm disease, stain and mold fungi of wood, and wood destroying fungi (Stillwell et al 1973). Promising results were obtained with cryptosporiopsin, hyalodendrin, and scytalidin for control of disease-causing fungi and stains in wood chip piles.…”