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Biocontrol strategies – retrospect and prospects

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Abstract

The term “biological control” or “Biocontrol” have been used in different fields of biology, most notably Entomology and Plant Pathology. The organism that suppresses the pest or pathogen is referred to as the biological control agents (BCAs) which are used now-a-days instead of Biopesticides. Many terms have been used for this technology. Among the agents some also can increase plant growth, so these should be considered as plant growth promoting agents. Since the current day emphasis is on sustainable agriculture therefore, possibility of seed/planting material treatment and biopriming of nurseries with biopesticides/ BCAs should be given priority at all levels. The biological control agents have been used singly and in consortium as the advancement in biological control strategies are expanded. Different microbial consortia can also be used for better control of plant diseases. Species of the multifaceted microbes viz., Trichoderma, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Mycorrhiza, Bacillus, Pseudomonas etc. registered in various formulations (granular/liquid) and marketed in various trade names, are such examples which may be included in any category. Manufacturers and marketing agents are selling diverse range of biologicals for crop protection. Selection and improvisation of biological agents is a very important task before it is commercialized. The release of microbial strains requires a detailed research including morphology, biochemistry, lab, greenhouse and field evaluation. The strains need to be registered in a government regulatory organization so that the commercialization becomes effective. Changing roles and new terminologies of microbe(s) based products, is challenging to both, academicians, and regulatory authorities due to extensive procedures and expensive registration. An optimistic hope would be a simplified procedure and less expensive registration to support and develop biologicals-based products for growers. Challenges like microbial sustainability, compatibility, application for seed, field, spray without contamination or loss of microbes from mixing with natural resources are the focus of research, academics, and industry.

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Sharma, P. Biocontrol strategies – retrospect and prospects. Indian Phytopathology 76, 47–59 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s42360-023-00601-4

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