Potential of Streptomyces Strains Isolated from Soils as Biocontrol Agents Against Fusarium Species

Background: Fusarium species are significant plant and human pathogens. Current chemical agents against them are limited by their side effects and developed resistance, requiring an alternative way to overcome this problem. Objective: We aimed to assess the inhibitory effects of Streptomyces strains isolated from soil samples against Fusarium species. Methods: Totally 250 samples were collected. Morphological and physiological characterizations of the isolates were investigated. All isolates were evaluated to test their antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium solani. Molecular identification of active Streptomyces isolates was conducted using the 16S rRNA gene. Results: Fifty Streptomyces isolates were obtained. Among them, two strains showed the most antagonistic effect against Fusarium species. According to the analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences, these isolates were identified as Streptomyces rochei. Conclusion: The obtained results of this study indicated that S. rochei could use as a potent source of bioactive compounds with antifungal activity.