Harnessing Fungal Bioagents Rich in Volatile Metabolites for Sustainable Crop Protection: A Critical Review.

Summary: Farmers have long relied on chemical sprays to protect crops from bugs and diseases, but these can harm the environment. A smarter, natural solution involves using specific "friendly" fungi. These microscopic helpers release invisible gases (volatile organic compounds) that act like a force field. These gases can communicate with plants to boost their immune systems or directly repel and stop pests. By using these fungal bioagents, farmers can grow healthier food, improve soil quality, and reduce the need for harsh chemicals, making agriculture more sustainable for everyone.