Exploration of Streptomycetes as Nematicidal and Herbicidal Agents
摘要
Over 70% of the natural substances used in agriculture and medicine today are produced by the Streptomyces genus. Due to their extensive secondary metabolism, these species are highly sought as microbial inoculants. In terms of plant health, Streptomyces species can exhibit desirable functional characteristics by producing specialized metabolites that enhance nutrient uptake, promote plant growth, alleviate abiotic stress, promote resistance, and prevent the invasion and establishment of pathogens or pests through herbicidal and nematicidal properties. Streptomyces species can produce plant-protective compounds like enzymes, secondary metabolites, and volatile organic compounds, indicating promise as herbicidal and nematicidal agents. They can additionally stimulate immunity in plant systems to respond quickly to an infection of pathogens. Biocontrol methods using streptomycetes can provide cheaper, effective, and environmentally safe pest control, thereby reducing the hazards of chemical pesticides. Research on streptomycetes as nematicidal and herbicidal agents has key implications for agricultural sustainability and inspires the possibility of developing holistic pest management strategies. This chapter describes nematicidal and herbicidal aspects of streptomycetes and serves to discuss their potential as environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic pesticides.