Endophytic fungi associated with medicinal plants are increasingly recognized as potential sources of biological control agents for plant disease management. In this study, endophytic fungi were isolated from Strychnos lucida, an indigenous medicinal plant from Timor Island, and their antagonistic activity was evaluated in vitro. Eight fungal endophytes were obtained from root, stem, and leaf tissues and were preliminarily characterized based on morphological features, whereas species-level identification using ITS rDNA sequencing was conducted for the two most antagonistic isolates. All isolates significantly reduced pathogen growth (P < 0.05), with inhibition values ranging from 40.30–84.98% against Fusarium oxysporum and 41.03–94.70% against Colletotrichum capsici. Two isolates, S1-SL and S3-SL, showed high inhibitory activity (>80%). Molecular analysis based on ITS rDNA sequences identified these isolates as Fusarium cassiae and Trichoderma asperellum, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, the occurrence of F. cassiae as an endophyte associated with S. lucida has not been previously reported, suggesting a possible new host–endophyte association. Microscopic observations revealed mycoparasitic interactions characterized by hyphal coiling, penetration, and lysis of pathogen hyphae. These findings indicate that endophytic fungi from S. lucida represent promising candidates for biological control of plant pathogens, although further greenhouse and field studies are needed to validate their effectiveness under tropical dryland conditions. Keywords: Antifungal activity, biological control, medicinal plant-associated endophytes, plant microbe interaction, tropical dryland ecosystem.
The world is facing serious threats related to food security, demand for food is rising with the increase in population. Agriculture is vital for growing populations because it offers food and jobs for people. Approximately, 8–12 % of the total agriculture production is wasted due to inefficient post–harvest management, mostly the losses are recorded after the harvest. It is critically urgent to limit these losses, as the world faces food insecurity. Agriculture sector is transforming from traditional farm practices to the modern practices with the help of technology. Therefore, this study employs a review–based approach to examine how agriculture supply chain management can be improved with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The findings revealed that artificial intelligence has the capability of transforming all parts of agriculture supply chain management from crop monitoring to the supply of the products to the end users and market demand predictions. In this research we have provided the information for the farmers and the agriculture sector related stake holders that how they can employ the artificial intelligence in the agriculture supply chain management to make it more effective and efficient. In this regard the government sector and the farmers should work unitedly for the betterment of the agriculture sector. Keywords: Global trade, agriculture, resource management, postharvest losses, artificial intelligence, supply chain management, food security.
Seed priming is a crucial technique for enhancing the quality of planting materials, which in turn improves overall crop performance. The study was conducted to evaluate the effects of hydropriming and gibberellic acid (GA3) on the seedling growth of squash. Seed priming methods (hydropriming and GA3 at 25 and 50 ppm) were used. Seeds were primed for 4 h, whereas unprimed seeds served as the control. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design with four replications under greenhouse conditions (29±4 °C t-mperature and 68±5% relative humidity). The study lasted for 12 days after sowing. Results showed that primed seeds significantly improved the shoot and root systems growth of squash. Priming with GA3 at 25 ppm significantly enhanced plant height, leaf width and length, root length and root count per seedling, and chlorophyll content. Moreover, at this GA3 concentration, the fresh and dry weights of shoots, roots, and seedlings were improved. However, GA₃ at 50 ppm did not further improve leaf or root growth, nor seedling biomass may be due to the inhibitory effect. Therefore, improving the seedling performance of squash can be obtained through seed priming, particularly with GA3 at 25 ppm, due to its better root and shoot systems. Likewise, hydropriming can be used as an alternative priming method if the availability and finances of GA3 are a concern. Keywords: Gibberellic acid, GA3, seed germination, seed priming, seed quality enhancement.
In response to a growing demand for more efficient integrated crop-livestock systems, this study aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the effects of biotechnological processes that contribute to improved nutrient uptake and, consequently, increased productivity and yields. To this end, a 90-day trial was conducted under controlled conditions, comprising three treatments across 120 experimental units. This demonstrated a significant increase in nutrient uptake (+28%), which explains an improvement in feed conversion (+19%) as well as in biomass yield (+24%; P < 0.001) when compared to the control group’s data. Similarly, a 31% reduction was observed in the biochemical profile, specifically in ammoniacal nitrogen values, whilst for total nitrogen the reduction was 22%, indicating improved substrate degradation. Furthermore, the environmental data, as recorded by the sensors, indicate a 17% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (primarily methane) with a consequent 14% decrease in waste. Meanwhile, the Random Forest and XGBoost models, which are based on machine learning processes, demonstrated high accuracy (R² = 0.89; RMSE = 0.12). In this regard, the most influential predictors included temperature, the C:N ratio of the substrate, and microbial load. Consequently, 73% of the total variance, as determined by multivariate analyses (PCA and PERMANOVA), confirmed that the clustering patterns could be attributed to potential biological and environmental responses. In conclusion, within biotechnological strategies, integrating experimental methods alongside the use of data science-based models is a viable option for improving sustainability and thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions within a framework of combating climate change and utilising climate-smart systems.
The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of organic farming strategies to control plant diseases. The completely randomized design was used with three replicates, The treatment included the crop rotation, the addition of organic pesticides, the compost (COM), the beneficial microorganisms, and the combination of the all treatments as compared with the control treatment were applied under cucumber plants. The collected data was entered and analyzed using R software. The results showed that significant differences (p<0.001) for organic strategy efficiency in improving the plant growth under the different treatments compared to the control. The highest diseases control was recorded under the combination of all treatments where pathogens dropped to 100 CFU/g under the mix of all treatments with a decrease of pathogens by 80% compared to control, and the pathogens recorded under compost to (350CFU/g) with a percentage of 38.33%. The plant diseases symptoms showed significant differences (p<0.001). The cucumber disease incidence dropped by 40% for the mix of organic treatments. Significant results were recorded for cucumber production per plant and plant height. The best plant health was recorded under the complex treatments with production increase by 40% over the control. The study recommended the use of organic farming strategies to reduce plant diseases, improve plant health and increase the production. Keywords: Organic farming strategy, plant disease, cucumber, plant health, soil pathogens.
Calcium (Ca) plays a crucial role in the reproductive physiology of Friesian Holstein (FH) dairy cows, as it acts as a carrier of stimuli that stimulates reproductive hormones. One easily available source of Ca minerals is eggshells. The study utilized a completely randomized design with three treatments and five replicates. The treatments included commercial mineral sources (P1), eggshell meal (P2), and eggshell meal extract (P3). Fifteen post-partum FH dairy cows, aged 4-5 years with an average body weight of approximately 500 kg, were involved. The cows were fed a basal diet of elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum), rice bran, and tofu pulp concentrates. The eggshell meal and extract were prepared and incorporated into the feed. Various parameters were measured, including onset of estrus, duration of estrus, estrus behavior, vulva condition, pH of mucus, mucus viscosity, electrical conductivity of mucus, and blood estrogen hormone concentration. Results indicated that eggshell meal and extracts positively impacted estrus duration, with averages of 17.40±1.81 hours in P2 and 20.40±1.67 hours in P3, compared to 11.80±4.49 hours in P1. Blood estrogen concentrations were significantly higher, with 348.65±107.94 pg/ml values in P2 and 392.30±75.88 pg/ml in P3, compared to 206.23±43.42 pg/ml in P1. Incorporating these supplements can enhance reproductive performance in FH dairy cows. Keywords: Mineral elements, calcium deficiency, estrous, ovulation, eggshell meal extract, Friesian Holstein, reproductive physiology.
Stunting remains a major public health challenge in Indonesia, particularly in eastern regions where prevalence exceeds national targets. In Indonesia, despite substantial policy efforts, the prevalence of child stunting remains high and varies significantly between regions. South Buton Regency is geographically isolated and strongly influenced by traditional feeding practices. This setting provides a unique context for examining multidimensional factors shaping child nutrition. While national and provincial studies have highlighted determinants of stunting, limited research has explored the combined impact of household food security, health behaviors, and cultural practices in coastal and island communities. This case-control study involved 314 children aged 6–59 months, comprising 157 stunted and 157 non-stunted cases, assessed through anthropometric measurements and structured questionnaires between May and June 2025. Multivariate analysis identified inappropriate feeding practices (OR = 10.215, p < 0.001) and poor access to nutritious food (OR = 2.517, p = 0.036) as the dominant predictors. Other significant factors included limited dietary diversity, incomplete immunization, inadequate antenatal care, food taboos, and low-quality caregiving. Findings underscore the urgent need for context-specific interventions to strengthen infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices and improve household food access to effectively reduce stunting in this remote setting. Keywords: Nutrition behavior, dietary diversity, food insecurity, child growth, rural Indonesia.
Effective river management is crucial for ensuring a sustainable supply of raw water. Through integrated management, rivers can remain a reliable source for communities. This study assesses the sustainability status of Lasolo River management for raw water supply in Konawe Utara Regency, Southeast Sulawesi Province. The research was conducted along the Lasolo River in 2024, with sampling at three stations representing the upstream, middle, and downstream segments. The study employed the RAPS-Lasolo software alongside the Multi-Dimensional Scaling (MDS) method to evaluate the sustainability index and status of natural resource management for raw water supply in the region. The MDS analysis across five sustainability dimensions produced a score of 49.06—falling within the range of 25.00 to 49.99—indicating a "less sustainable" status. This outcome is primarily due to the ecological and social dimensions performing at a "fairly sustainable" level, while the economic, technological, and institutional dimensions showed weaker performance. Keywords: Lasolo River, Multi-Dimensional Scaling, sustainable raw water, Konawe Utara Regency.
Anthracnose is a common disease in chili plants and is prevalent in almost all cultivation areas. Environmentally friendly control methods are needed, such as biological control using endophytic bacteria obtained from wild cherry (Muntingia calabura), suruhan (Peperomia pellucida), and wild passion fruit (Passiflora foetida) plants. This study aims to obtain endophytic bacterial isolates as biological agents for anthracnose disease, particularly on chili fruits during the early stages of fruit formation and post-harvest. The research was using a completely randomized design (CRD) with four replicates. The variables observed included incubation period, disease severity, Area Under Disease Progress Curve (AUDPC), and disease suppression index. The results showed that endophytic bacterial isolates from wild plants, namely BMH-3(1) and AK-7(4), were the most effective in suppressing development of Colletotrichum sp. in green and red chili fruits, with disease suppression indices of 87.88% and 73.65% in green chilies, and 55.41% and 45.27% in red chilies. Keywords: Capsicum annuum, anthracnose, Colletotrichum, endophytic bacteria, biological control .
Much plant growth promoter rhizobacteria research focuses on food crops and horticulture, while cashew as a plantation crop adaptive to marginal land is still underexplored. This study aims to obtain the potential of indigenous rhizobacteria from the rhizosphere of cashew plants in Kendari City which grow on marginal Ultisol land. Rhizobacterial isolates from three sub–districts in Kendari City were tested in three series of experiments. The initial selection of rhizobacterial isolates to test the ability of plant growth promoters was through viability and vigor tests, using rice seeds as indicator plants because cashew seeds were not available and at the time of the research the cashew plants were flowering. Biopriming rice seeds with rhizobacteria significantly increased germination percentage, seed uniformity, relative growth rate, vigor index, and dry weight of normal seedlings compared to the untreated control. Based on these selection results, three rhizobacterial isolates with potential as plant growth promoters were BA2, KM6, and NB2. The increase in dry weight of normal seedlings using the three isolates reached 47%, 58%, and 58% respectively compared to without using rhizobacteria isolates (control). These findings highlight the potential of locally adapted rhizobacteria as effective bioinoculants to improve seed performance and support the development of site–specific biofertilizer formulations for sustainable agricultural production. Keywords: Anacardium occidentale L., rhizobacteria, biopriming, IAA, seed viability, vigor.
Poultry products are in high demand worldwide, and industrial-scale poultry farming relies on artificial incubators. An essential factor in the hatchability of eggs is the preliminary assessment of their suitability for incubation. Computer Vision Systems (CVS) can enhance the accuracy of this assessment by eliminating human error, leading to improved hatchability. This study aimed to develop a CVS, including both hardware and software components, and to compare the large and small diameters of eggs measured using both a caliper and the CVS. A program was created to integrate the necessary CVS components, enabling the system to obtain and process images, measure the large and small diameters of eggs, and display the results in text form. The study found that the average measurement accuracy of the CVS was 99.24%. These results demonstrate the feasibility of applying the prototype CVS in agroindustrial production, reducing manual intervention in egg sorting and grading. The developed system provides a foundation for larger-scale automated solutions, including integration with accounting and quality control systems. Additionally, the technique shows promise for broader applications, such as detecting shell defects and predicting the suitability of eggs for incubation. Thus, the prototype opens new prospects for the integration of digital technologies into the agroindustrial sector and related fields. Keywords: Egg incubation, farm poultry, software, agroindustrial production, computer vision systems, python.
Local garlic varieties (Allium sativum L.) are one of Indonesia's leading germplasm sources, but their productivity remains limited in certain regions. The expansion of garlic cultivation from highland areas to lowland areas faces challenges due to poor variety adaptation. The use of Plant Growth Promoting Microbes (PGPMs) groups is an alternative to help improve the growth, yield and resistance of garlic to growing environments with extreme climate conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the growth and production capabilities of garlic using microbial groups at various altitudes. This experiment used a two-factor randomized block design with three replications. The first factor used four varieties of garlic (Jangkiriah Adro, Lumbu Hijau, Lumbu Putih and Lumbu Kuning), and the second factor applied five microbial treatments (control, PGPMs1, PGPMs2, PGPMs3, PGPMs4). The results of the study in the highlands showed that the Jangkiriah Adro variety with the provision of PGPMs1 and PGPMs2 was the best with an average plant height of 42.64 cm, 6.92 leaves, and tuber weight of 9.91 g which was significantly different from the Lumbu Hijau, Lumbu Putih and Lumbu Kuning varieties, but in the lowlands Jangkiriah Adro did not produce tubers this was because the variety was sensitive to extreme climate factors. In the lowlands, it showed that the Lumbu Hijau variety with the provision of PGPMs1 and PGPMs3 was the best with an average plant height of 26.27 cm, 3.58 leaves, and tuber weight of 3.22 g which was significantly different from the Jangkiriah Adro and Lumbu Kuning varieties. Lumbu Hijau variety with the help of microbial was able to adapt to a growing environment that was very different from the area of origin of the variety, namely the highlands, by showing the same results as Lumbu Putih which was an adaptive variety in the lowlands. Keywords: Amaryllidaceae, genetic resources, altitude adaptation, microbes, osmolytes, phytomicrobiome
This study aims to analyze the institutional performance of organic rice farmer groups in implementing SNI 6729:2016 in South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia, and to examine how resources, organization, and social norms influence implementation, including the Internal Control System (ICS) as a quality assurance mechanism.The research was purposively conducted in Sidenreng Rappang (Sidrap) and Pinrang districts, involving six organic farmer groups (two in Sidrap and four in Pinrang). Data were collected from 18 purposively selected informants (farmers, group leaders, extension workers, and relevant officials) through in-depth interviews, field observations, and document reviews. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach guided by Ohama’s R-O-N (Resources-Organization-Norms) framework. Institutional performance varied across farmer groups. Groups in Sidrap—particularly Karya Bersama—showed higher performance supported by relatively complete cultivation and post-harvest facilities, an active organizational structure, a consistently functioning ICS, and strong social norms expressed through deliberation (tudang sipulung) and mutual cooperation. In contrast, groups in Pinrang faced constraints such as limited infrastructure, difficult access to locations, minimal visits from extension workers, low member participation, and weak internal organization and norms, resulting in partial implementation of SNI 6729:2016. Successful implementation of SNI 6729:2016 depends on synergy among resource adequacy, organizational effectiveness, and supportive social norms. Strengthening farmer institutions should focus on increasing member participation, optimizing organizational functions, improving facilities that meet organic standards, and ensuring sustained facilitation from local governments and related institutions to support the sustainability of organic farming in South Sulawesi. Keywords: Organic agriculture, farmer Institutions, SNI 6729:2016, Organic Rice, R-O-N (Resources-Organization-Norms), Sustainable
Preliminary yield tests were conducted to determine the characters of candidate hybrid maize varieties compared to other varieties. This research aimed to assess the production supporting characters of hybrid maize candidates under optimal conditions and drought stress. A simple lattice design (7x7) was used for the 49 maize genotypes, with the experiment conducted under two conditions: optimal and drought stress. Drought stress was imposed from 40 days after planting (DAP) until harvest by withholding irrigation, while optimal conditions maintained regular watering. The observed characters were ear length, ear diameter, kernel length, kernel width, kernel thickness, 1000-kernel weight, and production per hectare. Research results showed that drought stress reduced production from 7.29 tons per hectare (optimum) to 4.17 tons per hectare (under drought stress), resulting in a 42.84% decrease. The hybrid maize candidates recommended for release as hybrid maize varieties resistant to drought stress were G2, G7, G9, G27, G30, G34, G35, G37, G39, G44, and G45. The selection of eleven candidates was based on the DSI value (DSI value <1.00) and lower production reduction under drought stress conditions than the three comparison varieties (Bisi-X, Jakaring, and Pioneer-X). Keywords: Production supporting characters, hybrid maize candidates, drought stress, DSI.
Two open–air pot experiments were conducted with Paspalum vaginatum (C4) and Argania spinosa (CAM), using sandy loam and loam soils, respectively. Biochar and compost were incorporated at varying proportions, and plants were maintained at 20% of field capacity for three growing seasons. A comprehensive set of parameters for both plant species, including plant biomass, photosynthetic rates, chlorophyll concentration, stomatal features, and relative water content (RWC) were measured. Additionally, pH and electrical conductivity were measured for both soil types. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the impact of banana waste biochar and compost on soil characteristics and to understand the physiological response mechanisms of the C4 and CAM plants. The application of biochar significantly improved soil fertility and increased the chlorophyll content in the leaves of both Argania spinosa and Paspalum vaginatum when compared to control treatments. The decomposition of biochar led to nutrient accumulation in the soil, which in turn substantially enhanced the physiological traits of both species. These positive effects were particularly evident during the summer season, showing a marked improvement over the winter and spring periods. Moreover, the application of biochar and compost in combination was found to reduce the water requirements of Paspalum vaginatum. The most beneficial results were achieved with the incorporation of 6% banana waste biochar along with 6% compost into the soil. This specific blend led to significant improvements in chlorophyll levels, soil fertility, and drought tolerance for both studied species, especially during the summer months, demonstrating a marked advantage over the control group maintained at 20% field capacity. The study concludes that these findings hold significant potential for applications in golf management, offering a method to reduce irrigation needs. Furthermore, the approach serves as a promising solution for sustainable agriculture practices, particularly in arid regions where water conservation is critical. Keywords: Drought, banana waste biochar, Argania spinosa, Paspalum vaginatum, physiological responses.
Empirical quantitative evidence on social capital dynamics in nomadic/semi–nomadic Indigenous communities is limited, specifically in agricultural empowerment programs. Therefore, this study aims to present descriptive evidence of changes in important dimensions of social capital, trust, networks, reciprocity, shared values, and solidarity among Suku Anak Dalam (SAD) community in Jambi Province, Indonesia, after willing participation in government–supported agricultural empowerment programs. Data collection was conducted among 93 participants diagnosed with SAD based on a census–based survey. The measurement was carried out using a five–point Likert–scale scoring system. Semi–structured interviews with government officials and local experts were performed to provide a context for the quantitative design. The results showed that there were observable increases in all the dimensions of social capital, with the greatest relative gains observed in the dimensions of trust and reciprocity. Furthermore, patterns of association were described between program participation and the perceived social capital outcomes rather than causal effects. This context–specific work offered empirical data of an underserved Indigenous population and identified the connection of agricultural empowerment programs to social capital enhancement among marginalized rural population. The results were conservative to policymakers and development practitioners, designing contextualized empowerment interventions. Keywords: Agricultural empowerment, community dynamics, social capital reciprocity, social trust .
Processed meat products occupy a significant place in global food culture. Indonesia, renowned for its rich culinary diversity, offers a wide array of traditional meat products, among which the Minangkabau people of West Sumatra have developed several iconic dried-beef products collectively known as dendeng. Despite their cultural and culinary importance, scientific research on dendeng remains limited. A bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer 1.6.19, focusing on trends over the past decade (2016-2026), highlights the strong connection between processed meat and preservation technologies. This relationship shows that processed meat is not merely a product category but represents a series of preservation-oriented practices designed to enhance stability, safety, and shelf life. Dendeng exemplifies the rich culinary heritage of the Minangkabau people, reflecting the integration of traditional processing techniques, local ingredients, and culturally driven taste preferences. By combining heritage and scientific approaches, dendeng demonstrates the sustainable valorization of ethnic meat products, supporting both local traditions and broader global food markets.
Commodity exchanges can provide producers with greater profits and enhance market stability by standardizing products, reducing the role of intermediaries, and providing risk management tools. In addition, by facilitating access to finance and reducing transaction costs, commodity exchanges can strengthen farmers' incentives to increase production. Despite the importance of commodity exchanges, limited studies have examined their impact specifically on agricultural production growth. Most domestic research has addressed general aspects of financial development or value addition. This study is quantitative and based on time series analysis. Data related to the growth of agricultural production (including barley, wheat, saffron, crude oil, oilseeds, and dates) during the years 2011 to 2023 were collected from the National Statistics Portal, the Ministry of Agricultural Jihad, and the website of the Iranian Commodity Exchange. Data analysis was performed using partial least squares methods, vector autoregressive model, variance analysis, vector error correction model, and structural stability tests in EViews version 11 software. The findings demonstrate the potential of commodity exchanges as a tool to reduce price risks, increase market transparency, and strengthen producer incentives. Commodity exchange sustainably strengthens agricultural production, such that about 15 percent of the changes in production growth in the long term are explained by the commodity exchange. It is suggested that policymakers develop commodity exchange infrastructure and design training programs for farmers to increase their participation. Keywords: Food security, agricultural commodity exchange, agricultural products, production growth, sustainable development.
Insect pest infestation has become significant problem for sustainable food supply in the world. These cause great waste in stored food. Application of synthetic pesticides has resulted in resistance development in insects and also posed a safety concern for human health. This has triggered the need to use environmentally friendly alternatives. Hence, the present research was designed to assess the plant extract based pellets of the rhizome extract Acorus calamus and sesame oil for the control of storage grains insect pests. Populations of two insect species, Sitophilus spp. and Tribolium castaneum, were obtained from paddy and rice storage areas in Bantaeng Regency in the South Sulawesi. Pelletized attractants were prepared through mixing A. calamus extract or sesame oil with maize or rice bran and adhesive traps were used to compare. Two- factorial Completely Randomized Design and 1 control, and 2 types of packaging and four formulations of the pellets were used where 3 replications were used (27 experimental units). The measure of attractiveness was done through the four-arm olfactometer, which found the abundance of insects, the percentage of attraction, and the longevity of the attraction with a period of four weeks. GC–MS was used to analyze the volatile compounds. The analysis revealed an α-, β-, and γ-asarone as the major components (56.9%), with the minor presence of sesquiterpenoids and aromatic alcohols, which were expected by insect behavior responses. Findings revealed that the unpackaged, unpackaged+A. calamus-sesame oil pellets were found to be the most attractive and lasted 13- 14 days in attractiveness, as opposed to low-feed or the packaged pellets which lasted 3-6 days. The greatest response was in treatment P1K1-Unpackaged+A. calamus + sesame oil + 15% maize, which had 45 Sitophilus and 36 T. castaneum individuals within Week 4. Overall results disclosed that high-feed have a high and persistent olfactory appeal, which is triggered by asarone-rich volatiles, providing a promising and eco-friendly option in the postharvest pest management. Keywords: Insect attractant, natural plant extract, postharvest pest management, Sitophilus spp.; Tribolium castaneum.
Downy mildew is one of the major diseases affecting maize (Zea mays L.), caused by obligate Oomycetes of the species Peronosclerospora spp. The infection can lead to severe yield losses sometimes reaching 100%. Overdependence on chemical fungicides has led to issues such as the development of resistant pathogen, environmental contamination, and health risks, emphasizing the need for safer, and more sustainable control strategies. Rhizosphere fungi have attracted considerable inteterst as biological control agents. However, many of these beneficial microorganisms in the rhizosphere remain unculturable and poorly characterized. This review aims to synthesize current findings on rhizosphere fungi and explore how metagenomic can be applied to streghten their role in sustainable management of downy mildew on maize. Fugal communities in rhizosphere contribute to protecting plants through multiple mechanisms, including direct antagonism, competition for nutrients and space, secretion of lytic enzymes, induction of systemic resistance, and the production of secondary metabolites and antibiotics. The advancement of multi-omic technology, especially the combination of metagenomics, next-generation sequencing (NGS), and ITS rRNA profiling—has opened opportunities to uncover unculturable fungi, identify gene related to biocontrol, microbial diversity, nutrient cycling, and stress tolerance. This review summarizes recent progress, outlines research gaps, and provides insight in to future integration of rhizosphere fungi and metagenomic tools as environtmental friendly alternatives to conventional fungicides. Such integration could enhance the resilience and sustainability of maize production systems. Keywords: Plant protection, diversity of microorganisms, multi-omics, oomycetes.
