The present disclosure provides isolated Bacillus strains, as well as compositions comprising one or more of the isolated strains and methods of using the isolated strains and compositions to enhance crop growth/yield.

Provided are bioactive compositions and metabolites derived from Bacillus and particularly Bacillus megaterium cultures responsible for controlling pests as well as their methods of use for controlling pests. Further provided are pesticidal Bacillus megaterium strains.

Provided herein are screening methods and animal models related to intraocular diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), for example, for identifying candidate therapeutics for treating or preventing eye diseases, such as AMD. Also provided herein are compounds/compositions that are useful for killing or inhibiting the growth of a microorganism, such as Bacillus megaterium. Further provided herein are methods of using the compounds/compositions for treating infections with a microorganism, such as Bacillus megaterium and for treating or preventing diseases or disorders associated with such infections, such as AMD.