Exploitation of epiphytic bacterial antagonists for the management of post-harvest diseases of sweet pepper and other fresh produce – a viable option

Mamphogoro, Tshifhiwa Paris; Babalola, Olubukola Oluranti; Aiyegoro, Olayinka Ayobami

Exploitation of epiphytic bacterial antagonists for the management of post-harvest diseases of sweet pepper and other fresh produce – a viable option

2020

Mamphogoro, Tshifhiwa Paris | Babalola, Olubukola Oluranti | Aiyegoro, Olayinka Ayobami

Postharvest loss of sweet pepper and other fresh produce is a major challenge throughout the world. The control of the loss of these valuable farm produce is primarily based on the use of synthetic fungicides. Nevertheless, there are concerns based on the impact of these chemicals on the environment and human health. Hence, call for a much safer and environmentally friendly alternative. Among the various biological alternatives, the use of bacterial antagonistic strain is becoming popular throughout the globe. Bacterial antagonists are now controlling a number of postharvest pathogens. Several modes of action have been suggested by which microbial antagonists inhibit the growth of postharvest pathogens. However, very little is known about the overall diversity of microbial communities on harvested produce; and how these communities can serve as a foundation for research on postharvest biocontrol. Competition for nutrients and space is the most widely accepted mechanism of action for bacterial antagonists. In addition, antibiosis through the production of antibiotics, mycoparasitism through the production of cell wall lytic enzymes, production of volatile organic compounds and induced resistance are other modes of bacterial antagonist actions by which they suppress the activity of postharvest pathogens.

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