Optimization of biosurfactant production by Pseudomonas aeruginosa using rice water and its competence in controlling Fusarium wilt of Abelmoschus esculentus

•Rice water was selected as the cheapest carbon source for formulating rice water medium in order to optimize biosurfactant synthesis by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.•The in vitro and in vivo antifungal efficacy and biocontrol strategy of the biosurfactant against Fusarium wilt of Abelmoschus esculentus were demonstrated.•The identification of the rhl gene, TLC, FT-IR, HPLC, and GC–MS analyses suggested the biosurfactant was rhamnolipid.•The biosurfactant that has been produced will aid in large-scale commercialization and will replace the usage of chemical surfactants in agricultural wastes.