Bridgestone Corp. has taken part in a research project to develop a technology to prevent 'white root rot' disease in rubber trees. The research, conducted by Fukuokoa bio community, also involves Kyushu University and the Indonesian national research and innovation agency (BRIN), Bridgestone announced 13 Sept.

White root rot is a fungal disease that infects the roots and lower trunk of the rubber tree, causing the tissue to rot and the tree to die. According to Bridgestone, the ‘onset’ of the disease is difficult to notice and therefore detection of the disease is generally delayed.

By working on a prevention technology, the research team aims to stabilise the yield of natural rubber and improve the productivity of plantations. Kyushu University and BRIN will select candidates for microorganisms and substances that inhibit the reproduction of the fungi in plants and soil.

Bridgestone, meanwhile, will demonstrate the technology by using its at its own farm in Indonesia. The team expects to have established a preventative technology by 2030, helping improve the productivity and quality of life of smallholders. Bridgestone and BRIN have been collaborating since 2010 on developing technologies for early detection of the white root disease in rubber trees. In 2016, Bridgestone said it has adapted a gene amplification technique called LAMP (loop-mediated isothermal amplification) for the diagnosis of the disease.