Bacterial and Fungal Biocontrol Agents for Plant Disease Protection: Journey from Lab to Field, Current Status, Challenges, and Global Perspectives

Abstract

Plants are constantly exposed to various phytopathogens such as fungi, Oomycetes, nematodes, bacteria, and viruses. These pathogens can significantly reduce the productivity of important crops worldwide, with annual crop yield losses ranging from 20% to 40% caused by various pathogenic diseases. While the use of chemical pesticides has been effective at controlling multiple diseases in major crops, excessive use of synthetic chemicals has detrimental effects on the environment and human health, which discourages pesticide application in the agriculture sector. As a result, researchers worldwide have shifted their focus towards alternative eco-friendly strategies to prevent plant diseases. Biocontrol of phytopathogens is a less toxic and safer method that reduces the severity of various crop diseases. A variety of biological control agents (BCAs) are available for use, but further research is needed to identify potential microbes and their natural products with a broad-spectrum antagonistic activity to control crop diseases. This review aims to highlight the importance of biocontrol strategies for managing crop diseases. Furthermore, the role of beneficial microbes in controlling plant diseases and the current status of their biocontrol mechanisms will be summarized. The review will also cover the challenges and the need for the future development of biocontrol methods to ensure efficient crop disease management for sustainable agriculture.

Bacillus Species: Excellent Biocontrol Agents against Tomato Diseases

“…In order to minimise detrimental effects on the environment and public health and ensure food security, both scientists and growers must prioritise the search for more ecologically friendly disease control strategies [ 61 ]. The term biological control refers to the use of antagonistic microorganisms, i.e., biological control agents (BCAs), for plant disease control [ 62 ]. According to O’Brien [ 63 ], the most common biocontrol agents are bacterial or fungal antagonistic strains, isolated from the rhizosphere or endosphere.…”

Bioactive compounds from bacterial and fungal agents for the control of phytopathogenic nematodes: mechanisms of action, interactions, and applications

“…Mientras que los compuestos producidos por microorganismos frecuentaron las enzimas, proteínas, cianuro de hidrógeno, acido salicílico, lipopéptido, superóxido dismutasa (Figura 2c). La aplicación de microorganismos y sus productos metabólicos para controlar las poblaciones de nematodos fitopatógenos en los cultivos de importancia económica es una estrategia segura y ecológica, que ha atraído la atención de muchos científicos en el sector de la protección de cultivos (Ayaz et al, 2023).…”

A Comprehensive Metagenomic Analysis of Bacterial and Fungal Microbiome Responses to Leaf-Based Compost Amendment in Soil, Unveiling the Bio-Fertilizing Potential

“…Furthermore, as highlighted in recent studies, integrating biocontrol agents into bio-composts offers a promising avenue for enhancing pathogen suppression [47]. Such strategies align with the broader goals of sustainable agriculture, which seeks to reduce reliance on chemical inputs, improve soil health, and foster environmentally responsible farming practices.…”