Bacillus spp. and their biotechnological roles in green industry

Abstract

Bacillus is one of the genera rich in species with diverse biotechnological applications. A number of review reports addressing various aspects of different species belonging to Bacillus have so far been published. However, most of the up-to- date reviews addressed either details of a single species of the genus Bacillus or particular aspect of a given species of the genus. Thus, in this chapter comprehensive review covering most of Bacillus spp. and their biotechnological roles in the green industry is presented. Accordingly, assorted biotechnological roles of Bacillus spp. in the fermentation industry, bioremediation of recalcitrant compounds and their use as probiotic supplements are summarised. Moreover, their well-known role in bioprotecting their host plants, through either directly antagonising the pathogens or indirectly promoting growth of their host plants or as an entomopathogen against insect pests, is also dealt with. In line with the theme of the book, special emphasis was given to the part that dealt with the role of Bacillus spp. in phytobioprotection.