Beneficial microbes in biocontrol of root rots in bean crops: A meta-analysis (1990-2020)

A meta-analysis was conducted using 228 reported field and greenhouse experiments to evaluate interactions of antagonistic bacteria and fungi, bean production and root rots. According to the Kruskal-Wallis one-way ANOVA test, antagonist, pathogen and treatment factors significantly affected control efficiency. Higher control efficiency was detected for Trichoderma gamsii (177%), Gliocladium virens (154%), Trichoderma viride (149%), and Pseudomonas fluorescence (135%). Highest and lowest mean plant growth improvement were recorded for Pseudomonas aeruginosa (170%) and Rhizobium meliloti (37%), respectively. Antagonists suppressed Phytophthora sp. (224%), Pythium sp. (202%), Fusarium oxysporum (143%), Sclerotium rolfsii (140%), Macrophomina phaseolina (116%), Fusarium solani (108%) and Rhizoctonia solani (102%). Growth improvement due to biocontrol of root rot pathogens ranged within 52-143%. Principal component analysis signified associations between control efficiency, bean growth and yield. This quantitative review informed us of potential of antagonism phenomenon to be considered much further in optimizing future farming systems from sustainability viewpoints.

Automated summary

This meta-analysis of field and greenhouse experiments showed that different antagonistic bacteria and fungi had significant effects on controlling root rots in bean production. Some antagonists showed high control efficiency and potential for improving plant growth, highlighting the importance of considering antagonism in future farming systems for sustainability.