Induced mutation breeding of Brevibacillus brevis FJAT-0809-GLX for improving ethylparaben production and its application in the biocontrol of Lasiodiplodia theobromae

•The mutant B. brevis strains were more stable against temperature and pH changes.•Ethylparaben production from mutant strains was higher than the wild type strain.•Mutant strains could decrease the wax apple fruits decay rates significantly.