A Review: Bacillus velezensis as Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria for a Sustainable Biocontrol Agent
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11113/bioprocessing.v5n1.96Keywords:
Biocontrol, Antifungal, Bacillus velezensis, Endospore, Sustainable agricultureAbstract
Bacillus velezensis has gained increasing attention as a sustainable biocontrol agent due to its multifaceted mechanisms against phytopathogens and its capacity to endure harsh environmental conditions through endospore formation. This review critically examines the biological attributes and functional mechanisms that position B. velezensis as a viable alternative to chemical fungicides in modern agriculture. Central to its efficacy is the development of the functional endospore, a highly specialized dormant structure that serves as a critical delivery vehicle, ensuring the bacterium's survival during industrial processing and environmental stress. Particular emphasis is placed on its dual-action strategy: direct mechanisms involving the production of diverse antifungal secondary metabolites such as cyclic lipopeptides, polyketides, and volatile organic compounds (VCOs) which physically disrupt pathogenic fungi, and indirect mechanisms that activate plant immune responses through Induced Systemic Resistance (ISR). The bacterium’s capacity to colonize the rhizosphere through chemotaxis, biofilm formation, and root adhesion further enhances its competitiveness and persistence. Additionally, the structural and biochemical resilience of its endospores enables high shelf stability and consistent efficacy in field applications. Collectively, this synthesis underscores B. velezensis as a biologically robust, environmentally safe, and agronomically promising solution for sustainable crop protection.
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