The Potential of Microbes as Biofertilizers and Biopesticides for Sustainable Agriculture
摘要
This paper investigates the role of microbes as biofertilizers and biopesticides in advancing sustainable agriculture. Since 1974, research on sustainable agriculture has grown substantially, with a total of 75,788 publications to date. Microbial applications have gained attention as eco-friendly alternatives to chemical inputs, offering benefits such as enhanced soil health and reduced dependency on synthetic agrochemicals. The discussion is organized into two main sections: the first examines the role of microbes as biofertilizers, while the second focuses on their application as biopesticides. Additionally, a separate section addresses the advantages, limitations, and future prospects of microbial utilization in agriculture. Biofertilizers, which are preparations containing living microorganisms, increase plant growth by increasing nutrient availability. Examples include nitrogen-fixing bacteria, phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms (PSMs), and mycorrhizal fungi, all of which are critical for maintaining soil fertility and supporting plant development. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) offer dual benefits by both increasing plant growth and protecting against pathogens through mechanisms such as antibiosis, induced systemic resistance, and nutrient competition. PSMs are particularly important in converting insoluble phosphate in the soil into forms accessible to plants, thereby minimizing the need for chemical fertilizers. Biopesticides, including microbial agents such as spp. and Beauveria bassiana, have been extensively studied for their biocontrol capabilities. These microbes act as antagonists of various plant pathogens, offering a natural and sustainable approach to pest and disease management. Overall, microbes present significant potential as biofertilizers and biopesticides, making them indispensable tools for sustainable agricultural practices.