Biocontrol Potential of Rhizobacteria Isolated from Aquaponic Systems with Eruca vesicaria Against Fusarium sp.

The agroecosystems are affected by phytopathogens such as Fusarium sp . Nevertheless, rhizobacteria isolated from different crops have demonstrated effective biocontrol against various phytopathogens. The in vitro biocontrol effect of rhizobacteria isolated from arugula ( Eruca vesicaria ) in an aquaponic system against Fusarium sp . was evaluated. Thirty rhizobacteria were isolated from the rhizosphere and characterized phenotypically and biochemically. Most isolates were Gram-positive bacilli, showing variable enzymatic activity, motility, and low sulfate and indole reduction capacity. Antagonism tests revealed four morphotypes that exceeded 50% inhibition of the phytopathogen. These were molecularly identified as Bacillus pumilus (61.29%), Bacillus cereus JCM (55.56%), Brucella pecoris (52.40%), and Bacillus cereus ATCC (50.00%). The results demonstrate a high diversity of rhizobacteria in aquaponic systems. Furthermore, four of these isolates exhibited significant biocontrol potential against the phytopathogen Fusarium sp . These findings suggest that aquaponic systems represent a promising source of beneficial microorganisms for biological control strategies. Further studies are required to evaluate their efficacy under in vivo conditions and to elucidate the mechanisms involved in pathogen suppression. In conclusion, the rhizobacteria isolated from E. vesicaria in aquaponics constitutes a valuable alternative for sustainable management of Fusarium diseases.