ENDOPHYTIC MICROORGANISMS AS BIOCONTROL AGENTS: AN ALTERNATIVE FOR THE SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION SYSTEM

Abstract

Endophytic microorganisms emerge as a sustainable alternative, offering benefits to plants, such as increased resistance to stress and pathogens. This research aims to carry out a literature review on the potential of endophytic microorganisms in the biological control of pathogens in agricultural systems, as a sustainable alternative to traditional methods. Endophytes can act directly on insects or colonize plants, creating a natural defense against pests. They also hold promise in controlling phytopathogens, aiding in reducing the use of chemical fungicides, and encouraging more sustainable agricultural practices by producing bioactive compounds with effective antifungal activity against pathogens. Additionally, they show potential as natural herbicides, negatively affecting germination and weed development. While more research is needed on the potential of endophytes in agricultural systems, they hold great promise for more sustainable management.