The objectives of this study were to (i) isolate and evaluate indigenous
soil bacteria for their biocontrol potential against fungal
and oomycete pathogens; (ii) identify and characterize the selective
antagonistic bacteria based on phenotypic characteristics,
biochemical tests, and sequence analysis of 16S–23S rDNA gene;
(iii) study the effects of these bacteria alone or in combinations on
suppression of damping-off and root rot disease of cucumber
caused by P. ultimum and on plant fresh masses under growth
room conditions; and (iv) develop suitable formulations of these
selective bacteria using talc powder and irradiated peat as carrier
materials.