CONTROL OF SOIL-BORNE PATHOGENS WITH LIVING BACTERIA AND FUNGI - STATUS AND OUTLOOK

This review addresses some of the current problems with soil-borne pat hogens and their economic importance in comparison to the total plant protection market. Possible opportunities for biological control solut ions in view of the various constraints of western agricultural produc tion are discussed. More specifically, we address the scientific, econ omic and conceptual hurdles which have slowed down the development of biocontrol agents. In addition, examples of biological control of soil -borne pathogens which have already reached the market or are likely t o be exploited commercially within the next few years are presented. F inally, we speculate on certain developments which might become import ant for the further commercial development of biological control produ cts.