Work

Plant Growth-Promoting Microorganisms as Biocontrol Agents: Mechanisms, Challenges, and Future Prospects

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The escalating threats posed by plant pathogens and the environmental repercussions of conventional agrochemicals necessitate sustainable agricultural solutions. This review focuses on plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) such as bacteria, filamentous fungi, and yeasts, which play a pivotal role as biocontrol agents. These organisms enhance plant growth and resilience through nutrient solubilization, phytohormone production, and antagonistic activities against pathogens, offering a dual benefit of disease suppression and growth enhancement. However, the effective application of PGPMs faces challenges, including variability in field performance, survival and colonization under field conditions, and regulatory hurdles. This paper discusses these challenges and explores recent advances in utilizing these bioagents in sustainable agriculture, underscoring the importance of integrated pest management systems that reduce chemical inputs, thus promoting ecological balance and sustainable farming practices.

Source: Applied Microbiology

DOI: 10.3390/applmicrobiol5020044

Authors: Seham M. Al Raish, Osama M. Sourani, Abdelghafar M. Abu-Elsaoud

Institutions: United Arab Emirates University, Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University

Language: English

Topic: Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,207