Narendra Kumar Ahirwar, Jitendra Singh Pachaya and Ravindra Singh
In the realm of agriculture, microbial diseases pose a substantial threat, leading to substantial losses in crop yield and quality. Traditional approaches to combat these microbiological threats have often relied on chemical control agents such as pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides. However, the overuse of these chemicals has given rise to unintended consequences, including agricultural quality deterioration, environmental degradation, and risks to human health. These chemical agents persist in the soil and environment long after their intended application, resisting natural decomposition. In response to these challenges, biocontrol agents have emerged as a promising alternative for managing phytopathogens. Among these agents, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have garnered increasing attention in recent years. LAB research offers a new avenue for combatting phytopathogens while addressing concerns related to biosafety and sustainable agricultural practices. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of LAB›s antagonistic capabilities, its role in promoting plant growth, the underlying mechanisms of action, and the limitations it may encounter as a biological control agent
(BCA). By shedding light on the advantages of LAB, this review underscores their potential as eco-friendly alternatives to chemical treatments, supporting the sustainable productivity of crops.