Biological control of the soil-borne fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici ––a review

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is one of the most widely cultivated vegetables worldwide, yet its productivity is severely constrained by Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (FOL). The pathogen invades the root system and vascular tissues, leading to systemic wilting, plant collapse, and significant yield losses. Although chemical fungicides have been extensively used for management, their long-term effectiveness is declining due to the emergence of fungicide-resistant strains and the associated environmental and health hazards. This growing challenge underscores the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. In this review, we critically synthesize recent advances in the biological control of FOL, focusing on antagonistic fungi, beneficial bacteria, and the role of organic amendments in creating suppressive soils. Unlike earlier reviews that address these components separately, we emphasize their integration within holistic disease management frameworks. We also highlight promising directions, including microbial consortia, molecular insights into pathogen-antagonist interactions, and the potential of combining biological control with precision agriculture tools. Collectively, these strategies offer a sustainable pathway for mitigating Fusarium wilt and ensuring resilient tomato production systems.