Utilization of biological control against regulated pests in the EPPO region
Experts from the Joint EPPO/IOBC Panel on Biological Control Agents, and the EPPO Secretariat have produced an assessment on the current use of classical and augmentative biological control to manage regulated plant pests. The paper discusses challenges for the uptake of biological control for regulated pests and provides recommendations to increase the safe use of biological control agents in the EPPO region. The proven safety record of both augmentative and classical biological control technologies allows their utilization against indigenous and non-indigenous but well-established pests, whether under protected conditions (e.g., glasshouses) or in open field cropping systems. Considering the following recommendations can promote and strengthen the utilisation of biological control in the EPPO region. (1) Information dissemination: consider the information requirements of different stakeholders and tailor key communication messages; (2) Awareness raising: is important to inform stakeholders on the benefits and safety of BCAs; (3) Regional cooperation: is essential for a joined-up approach to the management of regulated pests; (4) Regional guidance: EPPO PM 6 Standards provide a harmonized approach to the safe use of biological control; (5) Pre-emptive biological control: can provide a level of preparedness against priority regulated pests; (6) Contingency planning: integrating biological control techniques in contingency planning can ensure its consideration for emergency measures; (7) Integrated Pest Management (IPM) biological control techniques can be incorporated when relevant into IPM strategies.
Sources
Tanner R, Blumel S, Kapranas A, Kenis M, Matosevic D, Horn N (2025) The utilization of biological control against regulated pests in the EPPO region: challenges and opportunities. EPPO Bulletin (early view), https://doi.org/10.1111/epp.13072