Abstract: Strains of Pseudomonas have been genetically engineered to have enhanced biocontrol properties. The strains of the invention are particularly effective against plant pathogenic fungi such as species of Rhizoctonia and Pythium, because the strains produce enhanced amounts of antifungal metabolites such as pyrrolnitrin that are active against these fungal pathogens. Both the genetically modified biocontrol strains and the antifungal metabolites can be used as active agents for biocontrol compositions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for enhancing colonization of desired microorganisms in a localized environment comprising introducing into said localized environment a genetically engineered microorganism comprising a gene comprising a DNA sequence coding for one or more substrate utilizing protein, wherein said substrate utilizing protein confers a competitive effective ability to utilize a substrate by a microorganism in which it is genetically engineered, as well as the isolated genes and the genetically engineered microorganisms of such a method.