Coniothyrium minitans: A biocontrol agent for sustainable management of Sclerotinia-induced diseases

Sclerotinia spp. are globally distributed phytopathogens responsible for economically significant diseases in a wide range of host plants, including soybean, sunflower, canola, lettuce, cabbage, and carrot. The long-term survival of the overwintering structures, sclerotia, in soil coupled with the lack of completely resistant cultivars, threatens crop health and yield stability. Disease management generally relies on cultural and chemical practices that may not be consistently effective in all cropping systems and can raise environmental concerns. Microbe-microbe interactions, such as long-recognized between Coniothyrium minitans and Sclerotinia spp. are gaining renewed attention as a promising tool to manage Sclerotinia-induced diseases, offering environmentally friendly and often durable alternatives. Despite its importance, limited attention has been given to the topic in existing literature. This review focuses on C. minitans, from its biology to field-level deployment. Its antagonistic activity relies on mycoparasitism and antibiosis, both of which are influenced by environmental, biological, field, and chemical factors. Commercialization and deployment of C. minitans-based biocontrol products faced several hurdles before widespread adoption. Contans®, a commercial product, is recommended for soil application at harvest or approximately eight weeks prior to planting, or as a foliar spray during or shortly before conditions become conducive for disease development. Numerous greenhouse and field trials provide evidence of effective disease management in various crops using C. minitans, supporting its integration in disease management practices. This comprehensive review can be helpful for researchers, Extension agents, and farmers seeking information on effective and sustainable alternatives for managing Sclerotinia-induced diseases across diverse cropping systems.