Characterization and analytical validation of phenazine producing rhizobacteria for sustainable control of soil borne pathogens in wheat using TLC and HPLC based approaches

Rhizosphere-associated bacteria, particularly phenazine-producing strains, are known for their ability to enhance plant growth and suppress soilborne pathogens. This study aimed to isolate and characterize bacterial strains from wheat rhizosphere soils and assess their antifungal potential against Fusarium oxysporum. A total of 74 isolates were obtained, with 20 demonstrating significant antifungal activity in vitro. Morphological and chromatographic analyses confirmed the production of phenazine derivatives, which were further quantified using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Out of 20 isolates, four were confirmed with the presence of either phenazine or its derivative. The findings highlight the role of phenazine-producing rhizobacteria as potential biocontrol agents, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides. Understanding the environmental factors influencing phenazine biosynthesis could further enhance their application in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for sustainable agriculture.