Actinobacteria as Proficient Biocontrol Agents for Combating Fungal Diseases in Forest Plant Species.

Abstract

Treating fungal pathogens with biocontrol agents and their bio-products is a cost effective, environmental friendly and suitable alternative strategy for managing fungal phytopathogens, minimizing the need for synthetic chemical fungicides. Actinomycetota/Actinobacteria are globally accepted as a major contributor and potent biological control agents in controlling fungal plant diseases. The objective of this review is to evaluate the promising biocontrol efficacy of Actinomycetota in managing fungal pathogens causing diseases in forest plant species, an area that has received less attention compared to crops. It aims to highlight the importance of Actinomycetota, mechanisms of the biocontrol process against phytopathogens, the commercial applications of Streptomyces spp. as effective biocontrol agents and research trends, emphasizing their role as an environmentally sustainable alternative to synthetic fungicides. Additionally, the study identifies possibilities and provides recommendations for future research on Actinomycetota's potential as proficient biocontrol agents against fungal pathogens in forestry.