Harnessing phages as biocontrol agents against common bacterial blight diseases in plants

Abstract

Bacterial blight diseases in plants are caused by various bacterial pathogens such as Dickeya, Pectobacterium, Xanthomonas, and others. They infect a wide range of crops including potatoes, tomatoes, apples, and citrus. The impact of these diseases includes reduced crop yields, lower quality produce, and economic losses for farmers. Traditional control methods like antibiotics and copper-based compounds are becoming less effective due to the development of resistance and environmental concerns. As a result, there is growing interest in alternative strategies such as biocontrol agents (BCAs), particularly bacteriophages. Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria, they offer a promising solution to agricultural disease management. Their specificity and ability to target pathogenic bacteria make them an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical interventions. By optimizing phage formulations and application protocols, bacteriophages have the potential to contribute to healthier crops, increased yields, and a more sustainable agricultural system.