Non-pathogenic Fusarium oxysporum as a biocontrol agent

Abstract

Non-pathogenic Fusarium oxysporum are endophytes which can suppress disease development by pathogenic F. oxysporum isolates through plant growth promotion and local as well as systemic induced resistance. Competition for space and nutrients, production of secondary metabolites and induction of resistance are their different modes of action against pathogens. These have been reported to be compatible with biocontrol agents and selected fungicides. They were reported to be evolved from pathogenic isolates and transfer of specific genes encoding pathogenicity can convert them to pathogenic forms. There is the possibility of rapid emergence of new pathogenic lineages in distinct non-pathogenic strains by simple co-cultivation with pathogenic strains. Detailed studies are required to undermine the genes and the pathways involved in their antagonistic as well as plant growth promoting potential. This review paper attempts to describe various aspects of non-pathogenic F. oxysporum isolates and the possible threats in their usage as biocontrol agents.