Exploring endophytic bacteria as promising inducers for enhancing the immune responses in tomato plants and managing Rhizoctonia root‑rot disease

This study evaluated three endophytic bacterial strains (GT1, GT8, and GT13), individually and as a consortium, for controlling Rhizoctonia solani in tomato under greenhouse conditions. All bacterial treatments reduced disease severity and improved plant growth, biomass, and physiological performance. The consortium was most effective, reducing disease severity by approximately 75%, with effects comparable to the commercial fungicide Antracol. It also enhanced soluble carbohydrates, protein, phenolics, and antioxidant enzymes (PO, PPO, and CAT), indicating stronger plant defense. PCA confirmed positive relationships between bacterial treatments, growth, and biochemical traits, supporting bacterial consortia as sustainable alternatives to chemical fungicides.