Search Results (104)

The microbes found in the rhizosphere, roots, leaves and stem surfaces and within the internal tissues of mangrove vegetation and their environment constitute the microbiome of the ecosystem. The organisms in the microbiome include bacteria, protozoa, fungi, algae, amoebas, and slime molds, which assist in maintaining and restoring mangrove ecosystems. This review explores the role of microbiomes in the maintenance of healthy mangrove ecosystems and in the successful restoration of degraded mangrove ecosystems. Microbes have important roles in several geomicrobiological cycles shaping mangrove ecosystems, including transforming nitrogen, phosphorus, carbon, sulfur and iron in biogeochemical cycles. Mangrove microbiomes contribute to the adaptation of vegetation to the harsh abiotic conditions in coastal areas, enhance nutrient uptake, produce plant-growth-promoting substances, and degrade the mangrove litter and the pollutants that can hinder restoration. Soil microbes function as biofertilizers, biopesticides, and bioremediation agents. The microbial diversity, composition, and functional capacity are important in the restoration of mangroves through their influence on voluntary recruitment following hydrologic restoration, on the establishment success of planted seeds and propagules, and on the survival of transplanted saplings and nursery-raised seedlings. The knowledge of the beneficial attributes of the microbiome can enhance the overall success of mangrove restoration. Identifying future needs, such as microbial inoculant validation, field-scale trials, and integration with hydrological restoration, are essential. Full article

Beauveria bassiana is one of the most widely used entomopathogenic fungi in insect pest management, and the need for rapid and reproducible quantification of fungal conidia to monitor process performance and to quality control products during biopesticide production is imperative. Conventional methodologies, such as hemocytometer counting and plate dilution assays, are time consuming, laborious and subject to significant operator-to-operator variability. Although optical methods have been increasingly explored for estimating fungal propagule concentrations, species-specific calibration, suspension stability, wavelength selection, and independent validation remain important for routine applications. In this study, we developed an agar–water-assisted UV–visible spectrophotometric calibration protocol for estimating conidial concentration using B. bassiana as a model entomopathogenic fungus. A 0.1% (w/v) agar–water suspension was used in order to get homogeneous, stable dispersions of conidia for optical measurements. Calibration of conidia concentration was accomplished through reliable optical density (OD) values measured at wavelengths 500 nm, 530 nm, 560 nm, 600 nm, and 650 nm. Linear correlations were observed across the tested wavelengths, with the highest goodness of fit for the model at 650 nm (R² = 0.9907). The resulting regression equation, conidia concentration (×10⁷ mL⁻¹) = 4.184 × OD₆₅₀—0.12450, has been independently verified with separate conidia batches, resulting in acceptable relative errors ranging from 13.78% and 18.98%. This agar–water-assisted OD₆₅₀ calibration model provides a practical and species-specific tool for the standardization of conidial dosages in biopesticide research, facilitating the reliable evaluation and application of entomopathogenic fungi within integrated pest management systems. Full article

Root-knot nematodes (RKNs) of the genus Meloidogyne are major plant pests causing severe crop losses. Microbial volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have emerged as promising biopesticides. In this study, we evaluated the effects of two fungal VOCs, 1-octen-3-ol and 3-octanone, on nematode survival in five Meloidogyne species (M. incognita, M. javanica, M. hapla, M. arenaria, and M. luci) in plate assays. Results showed near-complete (95–100%) J2 mortality at 500–1000 ppm within 24 h. At lower concentrations, mobility declined, and species-dependent differences were observed: 1-octen-3-ol was more effective against M. arenaria. Meanwhile, 3-octanone showed stronger effects only on M. hapla and moderate effects on M. incognita and M. javanica. Further experiments using solely M. javanica showed that egg differentiation was significantly inhibited at 7, 14, and 21 days, with up to an 80% reduction at 1000 ppm, and the effects persisted at 125 ppm. Egg hatching from egg masses was reduced by up to 95% in a concentration-dependent manner, irrespective of compound type. Soil-like microcosm assays resulted in substantial reductions in recovered juveniles, with over 90% reduction at 125 ppm after 24 h, suggesting sustained effects under the tested conditions. In more complex plant–soil greenhouse conditions, effects were reduced, although decreasing trends in nematode infection were observed. Overall, these results indicate that fungal VOCs exhibit strong effects on different nematode life stages under controlled conditions, highlighting 1-octen-3-ol and 3-octanone as promising candidates for further evaluation in nematode management strategies. Full article

Although microbial biopesticides are expanding rapidly, transforming nematophagous fungi into consistent and shelf-stable products remains a challenge. A key limitation is that fungal propagules must remain viable throughout production, storage, and delivery to ensure their efficacy in the field. This review examines formulation strategies that improve the stability, deployment, and performance of fungal biocontrol agents against gastrointestinal helminths in domestic animals and plant-parasitic nematodes. In veterinary systems, predatory fungi such as Duddingtonia flagrans primarily target infective larvae after surviving gastrointestinal transit and germination in feces. In contrast, ovicidal fungi, including Pochonia chlamydosporia, Purpureocillium lilacinum, Trichoderma spp., and Mucor spp., primarily act against helminth eggs and coccidian oocysts. This functional complementarity highlights the potential of combined fungal formulations to improve their control efficacy. We also discuss the currently available D. flagrans-based commercial products, BioWorma^® and Bioverm^®, and the practical challenges associated with dosing, administration, and farm adoption. In agriculture, we show that the Brazilian market is dominated by solid fungal nematicides designed to reduce water activity and prolong shelf life, although liquid- and oil-based systems remain relevant for specific applications. Across both sectors, the review identified formulation design, rather than fungal species alone, as a critical determinant of product performance. Emerging advances, such as microencapsulation, UV-protective matrices, improved seed-coating biopolymers, nanobiotechnology, and fungal-derived bioactive products, indicate that future progress will depend on target-oriented formulations capable of increasing stability, controlled release, and resilience under environmentally variable conditions, including those imposed by climate change. Full article

Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) is an economically important crop that remains highly susceptible to destructive fungal diseases, including gummy stem blight, downy mildew, Fusarium wilt, and anthracnose. Although fungicides and resistant cultivars are widely used, reliance on chemical control raises concerns regarding environmental safety, food quality, and the emergence of fungicide-resistant pathogen populations. Consequently, microbial biopesticides, particularly Bacillus species, have attracted increasing attention as sustainable alternatives. In this study, muskmelon plants exhibiting leaf wilting, chlorosis, and stem yellowing were collected from Guangming Farm in Wufeng, Taichung, Taiwan, and associated pathogens were isolated from stem tissues and identified to determine the causal agent of these symptoms. In addition, the biocontrol efficacy of Bacillus subtilis strain MCLB2 against melon fruit rot, as well as its underlying mechanisms, was evaluated. Pathogenicity assays confirmed that isolate F01 was the causal agent. Based on morphological characteristics and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence analysis, this isolate showed 99.8% identity to Fusarium pernambucanum URM 7559 (GenBank accession no. NR_163754), and phylogenetic analysis further placed it within the Fusarium incarnatum-equiseti species complex (FIESC). Antagonistic assays demonstrated that B. subtilis MCLB2 significantly inhibited mycelial growth and suppressed the spore germination of F. pernambucanum. In addition, culture filtrates of strain MCLB2 effectively reduced Fusarium-induced fruit rot in melon and disrupted fungal cellular respiration. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) analysis revealed that the strain produced surfactin-family lipopeptides. In conclusion, B. subtilis MCLB2 exhibits potential as a sustainable biocontrol agent for managing Fusarium fruit rot in melon, likely through surfactin-mediated disruption of fungal cellular respiration. Full article

Plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) and microbial biocontrol agents have emerged as key tools for improving crop productivity while maintaining environmental sustainability. However, central questions remain regarding which factors determine their consistent field performance and how these factors interact under real agronomic conditions. Previous research has demonstrated that PGPMs enhance nutrient acquisition, regulate phytohormone balance, improve stress tolerance, and suppress plant pathogens through diverse biochemical and ecological mechanisms. Advances in omics technologies, genome mining, and synthetic microbial communities have further expanded understanding of their functional potential. Nevertheless, many studies rely on laboratory-scale experiments or short-term trials, with limited multi-season and cross-regional validation. This gap contributes to inconsistent field outcomes and restricts large-scale agricultural adoption. Long-term multi-season validation and reproducibility assessment remain essential priorities for improving reliability of microbial agricultural products. This review synthesizes recent advances in PGPM-based biofertilizers and microbial biocontrol technologies, critically examining their mechanisms of action, scalability constraints, formulation challenges, and regulatory limitations. It identifies major translational barriers, including context dependency, mechanistic uncertainties, reproducibility gaps, and insufficient systems-level integration. Full article

Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) cultivation generates millions of tons of stalk waste annually. This review explores the potential of tobacco stalks as a renewable resource, emphasizing sustainable applications within a circular economy framework, and highlights the key innovative advances. Composting and biochar production from tobacco residues can substantially enhance soil structure, nutrient availability, microbial activity, and heavy metal immobilization, supporting soil restoration and climate-smart agriculture. With 30–36% cellulose and moderate lignin contents, stalks can be converted into bioenergy, biogas, compost, and biopesticides and enable the production of cellulose derivatives. Despite promising results, challenges remain in nicotine detoxification, process optimization, and industrial scalability. Future research should focus on integrated technologies and life-cycle assessments to fully realize the environmental and economic benefits of tobacco waste valorization. Full article

Frequent rainfall during the ripening season in Shaanxi’s grape-growing regions increases the incidence of downy mildew and black rot. In recent years, rain-shelter cultivation has reduced the incidence of these diseases; however, it has been associated with frequent powdery mildew outbreaks that severely compromise fruit quality and yield. To mitigate powdery mildew under rain-shelter conditions, we characterized disease dynamics and evaluated “bio-based” or “microbial-derived” pesticide control strategies. A large number of studies have shown that rain shelter cultivation can significantly change the microclimate. This study found that changes in microclimate affect the incidence pattern of powdery mildew, and there are significant differences in the resistance of different grape varieties to powdery mildew. A prediction model based on microclimate showed that 15-day accumulated growing degree days (GDD15; base 10 °C) before disease onset were positively correlated with the disease index (r = 0.860), whereas relative humidity was negatively correlated (r = −0.637); a multiple regression including both variables explained 81.4% of the variance. In biopesticide screening, blasticidin S and polyoxin inhibited spore germination by >95%. In-shelter efficacy varied among cultivars, and biopesticide effects on fruit quality were also cultivar dependent. For example, blasticidin S increased total phenol and anthocyanin contents in Cabernet Sauvignon but reduced phenolic accumulation in Chardonnay. Full article

The rapid expansion of anaerobic digestion (AD) as a key technology for producing renewable energy has led to a substantial increase in digestate generation. This has intensified the need for sustainable management strategies that align with circular economy principles. While the solid fraction of digestate (SD) is traditionally applied to land or composted, its heterogeneous composition, regulatory constraints, and handling challenges restrict its wider use. This review aims to clarify the current state of SD treatment and highlight emerging opportunities to convert this underexploited resource into value-added bioproducts. A systematic bibliographic analysis of the past decade was conducted to identify consolidated and emerging SD valorisation technologies, supported by an evaluation of EU-level regulatory frameworks and the role of mechanical solid–liquid separation in enabling downstream valorisation. In addition, a comprehensive comparative table compiling physicochemical characterisation data of SD from various feedstocks and separation methods is presented, emphasising the significant variability in composition and its implications for valorisation pathways. The results show that, while composting and thermochemical routes, particularly pyrolysis, remain predominant, novel approaches such as advanced drying, pelletisation, vermicomposting, insect bioconversion, and fermentation-based pathways (including submerged and solid-state fermentation) are rapidly gaining interest. These emerging technologies enable the production of high-value products such as biochar, pellets, enzymes, microbial biopesticides, protein sources, and fungal biomass. However, their adoption is currently limited by feedstock heterogeneity, process complexity, scalability constraints, and economic considerations. Overall, SD is a versatile feedstock whose valorisation is expanding beyond agricultural applications. However, regulatory harmonisation, quality assurance, and process optimisation are still needed to encourage industrial uptake and to fully integrate SD into circular bioeconomy frameworks. Full article

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is one of the most extensively used microbial insecticides, attributed to the action of insecticidal crystal proteins (ICPs), primarily Cry toxins, which mediate damage to the insect midgut epithelium. Recent evidence suggests that Bt toxicity is also strongly influenced by its physiological state and interactions with the host gut environment. Biofilm formation represents an important adaptive strategy that enhances bacterial stress tolerance and may modulate insecticidal performance, although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. However, it is still unclear how Bt in the biofilm state alters host responses at the structural and transcriptomic levels. Using the tea plantation pest Ectropis grisescens as a model, we systematically evaluated the insecticidal efficacy of biofilm-state Bt formulations and their synergistic effects with a biofilm inducer system composed of Tween-80, tea saponin, matrine, and tea polyphenols. Bioassays showed that the biofilm-state Bt supplemented with composite inducers achieved the highest corrected mortality and reduced the LC₅₀ against neonate larvae by 2.88-fold compared with conventional planktonic Bt. Histopathological, biochemical, and transcriptomic analyses further revealed that biofilm-state Bt caused more severe midgut damage and induced extensive remodeling of detoxification- and stress-response-related pathways. These findings highlight Bt physiological state as a critical determinant of formulation efficacy and provide a novel framework for Bt optimization through microbial physiological regulation. Full article

Spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) represents a transformative paradigm in sustainable pest management, utilizing the exogenous application of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to achieve sequence-specific silencing of essential genes in arthropod pests. Unlike transgenic approaches, sprayable RNA interference (RNAi) biopesticides offer superior versatility across crop systems, flexible application timing, and a more favorable regulatory and public acceptance profile. The 2023 U.S. EPA registration of Ledprona, the first sprayable dsRNA biopesticide targeting Leptinotarsa decemlineata, marks a significant milestone toward the commercialization of non-transformative RNAi technologies. Despite the milestone, large-scale field deployment faces critical bottlenecks, primarily environmental instability, enzymatic degradation by nucleases, and variable cellular uptake across pest taxa. This review critically analyzes the mechanistic basis of spray-applied RNAi and synthesizes the recent technological breakthroughs designed to overcome physiological and environmental barriers. We highlight advanced delivery strategies, including nuclease inhibitor co-application, liposome encapsulation, and nanomaterial-based formulations that enhance persistence on plant foliage and uptake efficiency. Furthermore, we discuss how innovations in microbial fermentation have drastically reduced synthesis costs, rendering industrial-scale production economically viable. Finally, we outline the roadmap for broad adoption, addressing essential factors such as biosafety assessment, environmental fate, resistance management protocols, and the path toward cost-effective manufacturing. Full article

This review explores the innovative approaches in the development of next-generation biopesticides, focusing on molecular and microbial strategies for effective control of fungal plant pathogens. As agricultural practices increasingly seek sustainable solutions to combat plant diseases, biopesticides have emerged as a promising alternative to chemical pesticides, offering reduced environmental impact and enhanced safety for non-target organisms. The review begins by outlining the critical role of fungal pathogens in global agriculture, emphasizing the need for novel control methods that can mitigate their detrimental effects on crop yields. Key molecular strategies discussed include the use of genetic engineering to enhance the efficacy of biopesticides, the application of RNA interference (RNAi) techniques to target specific fungal genes, and the development of bioactive compounds derived from natural sources. Additionally, this review highlights the potential of microbial agents, such as beneficial bacteria and fungi, in establishing biocontrol mechanisms that promote plant health and resilience. Through a comprehensive review of recent studies and advancements in the field, this manuscript illustrates how integrating molecular and microbial strategies can lead to the development of effective biopesticides tailored to combat specific fungal threats. The implications of these strategies for sustainable agriculture are discussed, alongside the challenges and future directions for research and implementation. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a thorough understanding of the transformative potential of next-generation biopesticides in the fight against fungal plant pathogens, contributing to the broader goal of sustainable food production. Full article

The worldwide population is anticipated to reach 10.12 billion by the year 2100, thereby amplifying the necessity for sustainable agricultural methodologies to secure food availability while reducing ecological consequences. Conventional synthetic pesticides, while capable of increasing crop yields by as much as 50%, present considerable hazards such as toxicity, the emergence of resistance, and environmental pollution. This review examines biopesticides, originating from microbial (e.g., Bacillus thuringiensis, Trichoderma spp.), plant, or animal sources, as environmentally sustainable alternatives which address pest control through mechanisms including antibiosis, hyperparasitism, and competition. Biopesticides provide advantages such as biodegradability, minimal toxicity to non-target organisms, and a lower likelihood of resistance development. The global market for biopesticides is projected to be valued between USD 8 and 10 billion by 2025, accounting for 3–4% of the overall pesticide sector, and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12–16%. To mitigate production costs, agro-industrial byproducts such as rice husk and starch wastewater can be utilized as economical substrates in both solid-state and submerged fermentation processes, which may lead to a reduction in expenses ranging from 35% to 59%. Strategies for process intensification, such as the implementation of intensified bioreactors, continuous cultivation methods, and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven monitoring systems, significantly improve the upstream stages (including strain development and fermentation), downstream processes (such as purification and drying), and formulation phases. These advancements result in enhanced productivity, reduced energy consumption, and greater product stability. Patent activity, exemplified by 2371 documents from 1982 to 2021, highlights advancements in formulations and microbial strains. The integration of circular economy principles in biopesticide production through process intensification enhances the safety, quality, and sustainability of food systems. Projections suggest that by the 2040s to 2050s, biopesticides may achieve market parity with synthetic alternatives. Obstacles encompass the alignment of regulations and the ability to scale in order to completely achieve these benefits. Full article

Bioinsecticides offer eco-friendly alternatives to chemical insecticides and thereby meet the need for sustainable pest control. Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) represent one of the core classes of microbial insecticides, distinguished by their advantageous contact-based mode of action. Several products have been successfully commercialized, and with continuing improvements to the technology, the market size for EPF continues to grow. The translation of EPF into reliable field performers relies upon formulation technologies that ensure product quality, stability, virulence, and cost-effectiveness. Current formulations comprise diverse solid and liquid states (e.g., wettable powders, oil dispersions) that deliver a range of propagules (conidia, blastospores, microsclerotia). While advanced approaches like nanoparticle encapsulation show promise, some limitations hinder their widespread use. Major constraints include maintaining fungal viability during storage/transport and protecting propagules from harsh environmental factors post-application. Regulatory requirements also present significant barriers to widespread uptake. Addressing these formulation challenges through continued research is essential for advancing mycoinsecticide technology and increasing their contribution to integrated pest management. This review aims to present the latest scientific advances in EPF formulation technologies and application strategies, alongside an overview of current regulatory frameworks and an up-to-date analysis of registered microbial biopesticide products in some of the world’s largest markets. Full article

Camellia oleifera, commonly known as oil-tea, serves as one of China’s most economically important oil crops. To ensure continued production yield and quality, biological control measures, operating within the framework of integrated pest management, have been extensively adopted nationwide. Integrated pest management facilitates effective management of arthropod pests afflicting C. oleifera by integrating biological control strategies with traditional chemical control methods. This approach significantly reduces the reliance on chemical pesticides and minimizes adverse environmental impacts. Over 600 natural enemy species targeting pests have been documented within the C. oleifera agroecosystems in China including approximately 38 viral agents along with 41 fungal, 166 parasitoid, 336 predator, and several bacterial species. Notably, both insectile natural enemies and fungal biopesticides derived from microbial resources are currently being used at scale in C. oleifera cultivation regions, serving as crucial alternatives to the use of conventional chemical pesticides. This paper comprehensively reviews recent progress in research and the application of synergistic integration of biological control with traditional pest management strategies for C. oleifera. The current status of research on natural enemy resources is analyzed and knowledge gaps in the domain of C. oleifera pest management are identified. Furthermore, future research trajectories are proposed that are intended to provide a scientific basis for the green and sustainable development of the C. oleifera industry. Full article