A Review on the Impact of Climate Change on Plant Pathogen Interactions

Abstract

Climate change significantly affects plant-pathogen interactions, creating major challenges for global agriculture and food security. It alters pathogen distribution, biology, and life cycles, while also impacting plant physiology and defense mechanisms. Predictive models are crucial for forecasting pathogen spread under various climate scenarios, but they face limitations due to uncertainties and the complexity of biological interactions. Advances in biotechnology and genomics, including marker-assisted selection, gene editing, and the study of plant-microbe interactions, offer promising solutions for developing climate-resilient crops. Implementing sustainable agricultural practices, such as conservation agriculture, agroforestry, and efficient water management, is vital for enhancing resilience. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, which combine biological, cultural, and chemical methods, are essential for adaptive pest control. To support these efforts, policies and regulatory frameworks, incentive programs, and international cooperation are necessary to promote the widespread adoption of these practices. There are significant research gaps, especially in long-term monitoring and interdisciplinary studies, that are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of climate change's effects on agriculture. Addressing these challenges requires global collaborative research initiatives that facilitate the exchange of knowledge, resources, and technologies, advancing our understanding and mitigation of climate impacts on agriculture.