Summary
This narrative review examines the use of microbial consortia comprising multiple microorganisms as biological control agents for protecting crops against pathogens. Whilst individual microbial BCAs show promise, current efficacy remains limited; the authors argue that consortia-based approaches—leveraging diverse mechanisms of action—may provide more robust and stable disease suppression than single-agent formulations. The review identifies only limited commercially available microbial consortia-based biocontrol products and outlines future research directions incorporating technological advances.
UK applicability
The principles of microbial consortium-based biocontrol are applicable to UK horticultural and arable systems as alternatives to synthetic fungicides, aligning with sustainable intensification and regulatory restrictions on chemical pesticides. However, field validation under UK climate and soil conditions, and development of UK-licensed formulations, would be necessary before widespread adoption.
Key measures
Efficacy of microbial consortia-based biocontrol formulations; mechanisms of action of biological control agents; stability and consistency of antipathogen effects
Outcomes reported
This article presents a complex analysis of the current status of microbial consortia-based biocontrol formulations and explores potential future research directions. The review examines how multiple microorganisms with diverse mechanisms of action can enhance the magnitude and stability of antipathogen effects in crop protection.
Topic tags
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