Microbial Biocontrol and Plant-Microbe Interactions

Dear Colleagues,

Microbial biocontrol involves the use of microorganisms and their microbial products to suppress plant pathogens, thereby enhancing plant health and productivity. This approach leverages the natural interactions between plants and microbes, including beneficial bacteria and fungi, to create a more resilient agricultural ecosystem. Effective microbial biocontrol agents can outcompete pathogens for resources, produce antimicrobial compounds, and induce systemic resistance in plants. Plant–microbe interactions are complex and can be beneficial, neutral, or harmful. Beneficial interactions often involve endophytic and rhizospheric microbes, which enhance nutrient uptake and improve plant stress tolerance. These interactions can also stimulate plant growth and enhance resistance to diseases.

This Special Issue aims to integrate the application of microbial biocontrol, which is gaining more attention as a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides, aligning with the principles of integrated pest management. By harnessing beneficial plant–microbe interactions, agricultural practices can reduce dependency on synthetic chemicals, promote biodiversity, and improve soil health, ultimately leading to sustainable and productive farming systems. Advanced research into these interactions is essential for optimizing microbial biocontrol strategies and understanding their mechanisms of action.

Dr. Shahzad Munir
Guest Editor

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