Antibiotics, secondary metabolites produced by microorganisms, can inhibit or kill other microorganisms at low concentrations. Their selective action against plant pathogens, low phytotoxicity, and ability to be absorbed through foliage and translocated systemically make them effective in managing plant diseases, particularly those caused by bacteria, mycoplasma, and rickettsia. Antibiotics do not participate in primary metabolic processes such as cell wall formation or energy production. The use of antibiotic mixtures is common to prevent or delay resistance development in pathogens, enhancing their efficacy in disease management.
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