Author(s): Jonas Pettersson

Abstract:

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most important staple crops worldwide, feeding more than half of the global population. However, rice productivity is severely constrained by biotic stresses, among which rice blast disease caused by Magnaporthe oryzae remains the most destructive, accounting for yield losses ranging from 10% to 30% under epidemic conditions. The excessive reliance on chemical fungicides has led to issues of pathogen resistance, ecological imbalance, and environmental contamination. In this context, the exploitation of endophytic bacteria emerges as a sustainable alternative, offering biocontrol potential through mechanisms such as the production of antibiotics, lytic enzymes, siderophores, and induction of host systemic resistance. Parallel to the challenges in crop protection, rice production generates significant amounts of lignocellulosic biomass residues, particularly rice straw and husk, which are often burned in the field, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Valorization of these residues into bioethanol presents an environmentally friendly approach to energy production while addressing waste management issues.

This paper explores the dual role of endophytic bacteria in rice blast biocontrol and their potential contribution to bioethanol production through biomass valorization. Laboratory and field studies demonstrate that selected bacterial strains such as Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Burkholderia cepacia exhibit strong antagonistic activity against M. oryzae, significantly reducing lesion formation and improving plant vigor. Furthermore, certain cellulolytic and hemicellulolytic endophytes facilitate the enzymatic breakdown of rice residues, thereby enhancing sugar release and fermentation efficiency for ethanol production. The integrated framework proposed in this study not only addresses crop protection and food security but also aligns with renewable energy targets by converting agricultural waste into biofuels. The convergence of plant pathology and bioenergy research underscores the importance of microbial resources in achieving sustainable agricultural practices and energy security.

Pages: 104-108 | Views: 67 | Downloads: 20

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