Alternatives to chemical pesticides: the role of microbial biocontrol agents in phytopathogen management: a comprehensive review

The urgent threat of pathogenic diseases to the environment, food, and human health necessitates prompt action to devise novel solutions to mitigate losses. Diverse strategies have been utilized to control diseases; for instance, chemical pesticides may result in ecological harm, health issues, and the emergence of genetically modified pests that pose a risk to crops. The demand for sustainable agriculture compels scientists to seek environmentally friendly alternatives to detrimental pesticides. Consequently, microorganisms like bacteria, molds, and yeasts are utilized as biocontrol agents to mitigate crop diseases and promote pesticide-free agriculture globally. These bioagents can modulate phytopathogen proliferation and enhance plant growth and stress resilience. Engineered microorganisms serve as a potent instrument for sustainable agriculture, delivering improved disease resistance and augmented agricultural yields. The current review examines several tactics employed by microbial biocontrol agents to mitigate plant diseases, encompassing antibiosis, hyperparasitism, competition, interference, and the enhancement of plant defenses, all without the use of chemical pesticides, so promoting a safe environment.