Harnessing Beneficial Microbiota in Sustainable Agriculture

Dear Colleagues,

In the face of a rapidly changing climate and the need for sustainable agriculture, harnessing beneficial microbiota has emerged as a promising approach for plant disease management. This strategy leverages the power of naturally occurring microorganisms to protect plants from diseases, reducing the reliance on chemical pesticides. Beneficial microbiota, including bacteria and fungi, inhabit the rhizosphere and phyllosphere of plants, forming intricate relationships that can enhance the plant's resilience against harmful microbes. They function by competing with pathogens for resources, secreting antimicrobial compounds, and activating the plant's own defense mechanisms. As climate change leads to more unpredictable and severe weather patterns, the ability of plants to fend off diseases becomes increasingly important. Recent research has uncovered exciting possibilities for harnessing microbiota, including the development of biopesticides and probiotics for plants. These solutions not only provide effective disease management but also have the potential to improve crop yields and overall agricultural sustainability. However, challenges such as the complexity of microbial communities and their interactions with plants must be addressed. In a changing climate, the smart utilization of beneficial microbiota offers a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to plant disease management, contributing to global food security while reducing the environmental impact of agriculture.

Reviews, original research, and communications are all welcome to contribute to this Special Issue.

Dr. Mohamed Idbella
Prof. Dr. Giuliano Bonanomi
Guest Editors

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