Possibilities of using yeast in biological plant protection

Abstract

The metabolic activity of yeasts, as well as their common occurrence in the environment make them a potential source of compounds that can be used in biological plant protection. The article presents health-promoting effects of yeast on plants. The pro-health effect of yeast is related to the ability to provide plants with dissolved nutrients. Yeasts can also indirectly activate plant defence mechanisms and improve plant health status. The bioremediation properties and antagonism of yeasts against numerous economically important phytopathogens play an important role here. The research is also indicated that yeasts (Pichia membranifaciens, Pichia fermentans and Meyrozyma guilliermondii) in vitro show an antagonistic activity against their phytopathogens (Alternaria alternata, Rhizoctonia solani and Colletotrichum coccodes). All the mentioned aspects of yeast activity can be useful in creating high-quality biofertilizers and biopesticides.