Applications and future challenges of Bacillus and its derivatives in crop protection

Abstract Many pests and diseases affect agricultural and commercial crops, resulting in potential yield losses. It has been shown that microbial biocontrol agents, such as Bacillus species, are efficient alternatives to synthetic pesticides, supporting sustainable pest and disease management. Both economically and ecologically, Bacillus species play a vital role, and research and development must focus on identifying the most valuable species and developing innovative techniques to explore their potential. . The major species harnessed for controlling various diseases in food crops include B. subtilis, B. amyloliquefaciens, B. thuringiensis, and B. paramycoides, while B. thuringiensis was mainly also used for the management of insect pests’ populations. All these Bacillus species alongwith disease and pest controlling properties also possessed plant growth enhancement activities, as the majority of researchers found increased crop yield. In addition, several types of surfactants produced by these species have also been used to control pests and diseases. Bacillus species inhibit the growth of pathogens by various mechanisms, including antibiosis, enzyme, siderophore production, and systemically induced disease resistance. Bacillus species show beneficial properties when they interact with plants, pathogens, and/or the environment. To optimize their field use, a deeper understanding of how different strains contribute to managing pests and pathogens as well as plant growth promotion is important. Moreover, identifying the key factors that contribute to influence their effectiveness will enhance their practical implementation. The objectives of this paper were to review the promising effects of Bacillus species for management of crop diseases as well as pests and for enhancing plant growth. The purpose of this review is to provide researchers with information about the use of various Bacillus species in managing pests and pathogens of various crops.