BIOLOGICAL CONTROL

This chapter focuses on the biological control that refers to the use of naturally found microorganisms that antagonize the postharvest pathogens. Antagonism between microorganisms is a ubiquitous phenomenon involving fungi and bacteria, which naturally inhabit the soil and the surfaces of various plant organs. It is assumed that biocontrol of plant diseases occurs naturally on aerial plant surfaces, and may be one of the main reasons that crops are protected to some extent during their cultivation. One of the approaches to the isolation of antagonistic microorganisms for controlling postharvest diseases is through the promotion and management of natural epiphytic antagonists, which are already present on fruit and vegetable surfaces. Preharvest pesticide application and various postharvest treatments, such as fungicide and wax sprays, washes and dips, can greatly affect the resident microflora, both qualitatively and quantitatively.