Volatile organic compounds from Bacillus mojavensis I4 promote plant growth and inhibit phytopathogens

The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) harbor several plant beneficial properties. In this study, we evaluated the ability of VOCs released by Bacillus mojavensis I4 to inhibit the development of phytopathogens and to promote plant growth. Our results showed that the I4 VOCs exhibit antagonistic activity against Fusarium verticillioides, Fusarium graminearum, and Rhizoctonia solani in vitro. Indeed, this growth inhibition was confirmed by microscopic observation of fungal morphological changes. Moreover, significant increases in plant growth, biomass production, and chlorophyll content were observed in Arabidopsis plants exposed to I4 VOCs. Furthermore, twelve VOCs produced by I4 strain were identified using Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The results of this study confirmed the role of VOCs in supporting eco-friendly agriculture based principally on the biological control agents.