Isolation of mycolytic enzyme producing bacteria from the environment in Sarawak, and evaluation of their potentials as biocontrol agents against Ganoderma boninense

The aims of this research study were to isolate and characterise the mycolytic producing microbes from the soil ecosystem in Sarawak and evaluate their effectiveness as biological control agents against Ganoderma boninense. The greatest threat to oil palm cultivation in Malaysia is the basal stem rot caused by white rot fungus, Ganoderma boninense. Traditionally, chemical fungicides are used to control basal stem rot. However, they do carry other side effects to both the environment and human health. Hence, this brings in the suggestion of the application of biocontrol agents, as they are a more environmentally friendly approach.