Abdullah, N. A.1, Khairul Izhar, M. A. A.2, Yusof. M. D. N.3, Rosli, N. A.4, Khairuddin, N. H.5, Muhammad Rizal, N. A.4, Yusri, N. E.4, Zulkifli, N. A.6, Lau, H. Y.7, Wan Chik, W. D.8 and Azizi, M. M. F.8*
Abstract
Rice is the primary food source for 2.5 to 3.5 billion people worldwide, particularly in developing countries. However, rice production faces threats from various diseases caused by harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These diseases can significantly reduce crop yields and jeopardise global food security. Farmers often rely on chemical pesticides to combat these issues, but over time, these chemicals could harm the environment, pollute soil and water, and lead to pathogen resistance, rendering the chemicals less effective. Additionally, they can eliminate beneficial microbes that promote healthy plant growth. Consequently, scientists and farmers are increasingly turning to microbial biocontrol agents as a safer and more sustainable alternative. Biocontrol microorganisms are one of the alternatives towards agrochemicals as it is environmentally friendly and can act as a growth-promoting organism for rice plants. These beneficial microorganisms such as Bacillus spp., Trichoderma spp., Streptomyces spp., Pseudomonas spp., Burkholderia spp., certain types of yeast and bacteriophage naturally protect rice plants by inhibiting harmful pathogens. They achieve this through various mechanisms, including producing natural antibiotics, competing for nutrients, enhancing the plant’s immune system, and directly attacking the pathogens. This review highlights the potential of these microbes to manage rice diseases effectively while promoting plant growth, reducing chemical usage, and fostering a healthier, more sustainable agricultural system.
Keywords: rice pathogens, biocontrol agents, rice diseases, microorganisms, food security