MODERN METHODS IN BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF PLANT PATHOGENS

Pathogenic fungi cause serious loss or damage to crops around the world, resulting in a decrease in the quality and quantity of agricultural products. In addition, fungi can produce toxic substances, which pose a serious threat to food security. Currently, food production is shifting towards reducing the use of chemical synthesized pesticides, while various biocontrol methods are being used in plant pathogen control. A promising direction in this field is the use of fungal biological control agents. This review presents the most effective mechanisms of fungal BCAs action, methods of their application against pre-harvest and post-harvest pathogens.