Algae and cyanobacteria‑based biostimulants in controlling plant‑parasitic nematodes: a sustainable approach for crop protection.

Abstract

Plant root pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, nematodes and viruses infect over a thousand plant species worldwide, threatening the livelihood and food security of small-scale farmers and rural communities who rely on the crops. For centuries, soil fumigants have been the standard for disease infestation control; however, due to the hazardous effects of these fumigants and their overall species specificity failure, there has been a paradigm shift away from using chemicals to control plant pathogens in recent decades. The use of algae and cyanobacteria-based biostimulants in combating plant-parasitic nematodes has recently gained the attention of researchers. This review intends to elucidate the state of the art of algae and cyanobacteria-based biostimulants and their bioactive compounds in controlling plant-parasitic nematodes. In addition, given that the mechanisms of action of these biological biostimulants are not fully understood, this review has further elaborated on how these organisms and their bioactive extracts suppress and control plant pest nematodes. Finally, barriers and prospects in commercializing of algae and cyanobacteria- based biostimulants are reviewed.