Applications of rhamnolipid biosurfactants in agriculture

• DOI: 10.1016/j.stress.2025.100749
• Publication Date: 2025-01-20T16:35:44Z
• Authors: Elise Pierre; Elodie Shaw; Brian Corr; Karine Pageau; Sonia Rippa
• Keywords: 570; Biopesticides; Biostimulation; [SDV.BIO]Life Sciences [q-bio]/Biotechnology; Rhamnolipids; [SDV.SA.STA]Life Sciences [q-bio]/Agricultural sciences/Sciences and technics of agriculture; Biosurfactants; Biocontrol; QK900-989; Plant ecology; Plant protection; 630

Rhamnolipids are glycolipid biosurfactants naturally produced by Pseudomonas and Burkholderia bacteria, well-known for their surface-active properties and eco-friendly advantages. Indeed, these compounds efficiently reduce the surface and interface tensions, possess potent biological activities against pathogens, and display low toxicity. Rhamnolipids thus hold significant promise for various industrial applications, including agriculture, which is in need of a transition to greener and more sustainable practices by reducing synthetic inputs. This review describes the knowledge about the antimicrobial properties of rhamnolipids against different phytopathogens, mainly fungal species, as well as their ability to trigger plant defense mechanisms and phytoprotection efficacy in different species. The recent literature investigating rhamnolipids as potential plant biostimulation agents, thanks to their abilities to improve soil health and plant tolerance to abiotic stresses, is also addressed. Finally, the prospect of rhamnolipids as a biopesticide and their overall contribution to sustainable agricultural practices is discussed.