Role of Biocontrol Agents in Suppressing Plant Pathogen: A Compressive Analysis
Sanjay Kumar *
Department of Plant Pathology, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh - 474002, India.
Chavda Nikunj
Department of Plant Pathology, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, 388110, India.
Abhishek Rathore
Department of Plant Pathology, Rabindranath Tagore University, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 464993, India.
Rashmi Nigam
Department of Plant Pathology, J.V. College Baraut (Baghpat), C.C.S. University Meerut (U.P.) 250611, India.
Shivam
Department of Plant Pathology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur- 208002, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Arvind M
Department of Plant Pathology, Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner- Jaipur, Rajasthan – 303329, India.
R. Nilesh
Division of Plant Pathology, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology- 180009, Jammu, India.
R. Yuvarani
Department of Plant Pathology, Adhiparasakthi Agricultural College, Kalavai, Ranipet, Tamil Nadu 632506, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Biocontrol agents have emerged as important tools in the quest for sustainable agriculture, offering environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides for managing plant pathogens and pests. This comprehensive review explores the advancements in biocontrol agent research, focusing on the exploration of new agents, genetic engineering, and integration into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems. The discovery of novel biocontrol agents from diverse environments, including plant microbiomes and marine ecosystems, has expanded the arsenal available for agricultural use, while genetic engineering and synthetic biology have enhanced the efficacy of existing agents by improving their production of antimicrobial metabolites and stress tolerance. Additionally, the development of synthetic microbial consortia and innovative delivery systems, such as encapsulation and nanotechnology, has improved the stability and application efficiency of biocontrol agents in various agricultural settings. The review also highlights the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly approaches, such as the use of organic amendments and crop rotation, to enhance the effectiveness of biocontrol strategies. These methods not only improve soil health and biodiversity but also reduce the reliance on chemical inputs. However, the widespread adoption of biocontrol agents faces challenges, including environmental variability, host specificity, and the need for supportive regulatory frameworks. Harmonizing regulatory processes, promoting public awareness, and providing incentives for sustainable practices are essential for overcoming these barriers. International cooperation and knowledge exchange are crucial for advancing research and ensuring that biocontrol agents become integral components of modern agriculture. This review underscores the potential of biocontrol agents to contribute significantly to global food security and environmental sustainability, provided that ongoing research and innovation continue to address existing challenges and expand their practical applications in diverse agricultural contexts.
Keywords: Biocontrol, sustainability, pathogens, biotechnology, microbiome, genetic-engineering