1 Department of Applied Microbiology and Brewing, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.
2 Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria.
3 Department of Microbiology, Plateau State University, Bokkos, Jos, Nigeria.
4 Chychy Gilgal Laboratory and Consultancy Services, Ichida, Anambra, Nigeria.
Review Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024, 23(02), 962-978
Received on 16 June 2024; revised on 25 July 2024; accepted on 27 July 2024
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.
Phages; Bacterial blight diseases; Biocontrol agents; Resistance; Phytopathogens
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Vivian Nonyelum Anakwenze, Esther Chidera Enukorah, Kazeem Shakiru Adewale, Emmanuel Nnaemeka Nnadi, Amarachukwu Bernaldine Isiaka, Chikodili Gladys Anaukwu, Chito Clare Ekwealor, Chinyere Constance Ezemba, Victoria Ihedinachi Anyaoha and Emmanuela Nneamaka Amailo. Harnessing phages as biocontrol agents against common bacterial blight diseases in plants. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024, 23(2), 962-978. Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.30574/wjarr.2024.23.2.2142