Identification of the causative agent of bacterial leaf spot disease on pepper (Capsicum spp.) in the Mekong Delta and selection of antagonistic bacteria for biocontrol

Pepper (Capsicum spp.) is a key crop in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam, but bacterial leaf spot caused by Xanthomonas euvesicatoria severely reduces yield and quality. This project seeks to identify the causal pathogen and evaluate native antagonistic bacteria as biocontrol agents. In particular, Bacillus velezensis BP5 and BP103 show strong activity against X. euvesicatoria, offering promising eco-friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides and supporting sustainable pepper production.