Serratia marcescens (Enterobacteriaceae): plant health promoter

Abstract

Since its discovery in 1823, Serratia marcescens has been one of the most studied bacteria and that has increasingly gathered the attention of the scientific research, due to its rich secondary metabolism that confers a great potential as plant health promoter. One of the main handicaps of its generalized use as biocontrol agent (BCA) of pest and pathogens in agriculture, is its pathogenicity for immunocompromised patients, which might eventually represent risks for human health and non-target organisms in the field. The current research challenges are to detect non-pathogenic strains of S. marcescens with potential as BCA and to complement plant protection programs, or potentialize the antagonistic activities of its secondary metabolites by bioengineering approaches, avoiding the intentionally delivery of free bacteria into the environment. This work reviews the uses and possible applications of the bacteria as BCA of pest and pathogens, as well as a complement for plant nutrition.