Marine Micro-organisms used in the fight against Extreme heat in the Vines

29 Jul

***Why treat grapevines with bacteria from salt marshes, specifically? The idea is that plants that grow in the salty conditions in these marshes must be able to cope with tough conditions***
In Portugal, a battle against scorching temperatures of 42°C (107°F) posed a grave threat to fruit-bearing plants, particularly grapevines. Yet, amidst this daunting challenge, some grapevines revealed an astonishing secret weapon. Unveiled within a controlled laboratory experiment, an artificial heatwave sought to replicate the extreme conditions observed in various regions of southern Europe during that very summer. In an unprecedented move, certain grapevines were treated with a distinctive concoction of bacteria sourced from Spanish salt marshes. Throughout this ordeal, all the vines received careful watering, their resilience being put to the ultimate test.

This pioneering agricultural approach offers hope for a more climate-resilient future, particularly in the face of escalating heatwaves due to climate change.

The discovery of grapevines capable of withstanding harsh heat stress opens up new possibilities for enhancing crop resilience. By incorporating salt-tolerant bacteria from marine environments, researchers have unveiled a potential pathway to bestow extra hardiness on plants, safeguarding them from the adverse effects of rising temperatures.

The threats posed by heat stress are particularly concerning for winemakers, as it can lead to undesirable bitterness in grapes, impacting the quality of wines produced. Furthermore, the escalating frequency and intensity of heatwaves worldwide exacerbate the challenges faced by agriculture, putting vital crops like grapevines at risk.

In May, the researchers conducted an experiment where they combined certain bacterial collections with water and administered this treatment once a week for a month to rows of grapevines. These vines included both 16-year-old plants and newly-planted ones, and the experiment took place in a vineyard located in Portugal. With the ongoing heatwave, the vineyard's conditions are providing a real-life test for the effectiveness of this approach.

The next crucial phase of the research involves ensuring that the resulting wine is suitable for consumption. To achieve this, the researchers must demonstrate that the introduced microbes do not cause any undesirable alterations in acidity or sugar levels.

The innovative approach of "cross-protection" or "priming" through the introduction of beneficial bacteria represents a milestone in agricultural science. By activating defense mechanisms in grapevines that transcend immediate stressors, researchers aim to build resilience against future adversities, creating a crucial shield for crops in an increasingly unpredictable climate.

As climate change continues to cast a shadow over global agriculture, the groundbreaking findings from this study hold immense promise. Efforts to harness the inherent resilience of plants thriving in harsh environments present a beacon of hope for securing food supplies and ensuring sustainability in a world plagued by climate uncertainties.

In the broader context of natural wine farming methods, incorporating practices such as ground cover with grasses and flowers, no-till farming, and deeper root systems can further protect grapevines and their delicate biome. Such sustainable practices not only mitigate the impact of extreme heat but also contribute to the preservation of the environment and the health of the viticulture ecosystem.

Ultimately, by delving deeper into the intricate relationships between plants and their microbial allies, humanity stands poised to embrace a more adaptive and sustainable future in agriculture. Through continued exploration and innovation, the quest for resilient crops remains an illuminating path forward, offering hope for a world where agriculture thrives amidst the challenges of an evolving climate.