Biological control of fungal phytopathogens: A comprehensive review based on Bacillus species
Muddasir Khan, Muhammad Salman, Sohail Ahmad Jan, Zabta Khan Shinwari
Abstract
Worldwide, emergence of new resistant fungal phytopathogens and use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides for the protection of crops lead to serious environmental issues. Due to these problems, the need to explore alternative management approaches that are not only successful but also less harmful to the environment is of paramount importance. Bacillus species are a good candidate for use as a biocontrol agent against these fungal phytopathogens because they produce various types of antimicrobial substances and their environmentally friendly behavior. This article provides basic knowledge of Bacillus spp. biocontrol agents, tools for identification of their biocontrol agents and techniques for screening of Bacillus spp. against fungal phytopathogens based on current findings. Specifically, if thoroughly explored, Bacillus will remove the existing commonly used control agents such as fungicides, harmful cultural activities of health and control phytopathogens in the ecosystem.