Biological control in the context of Integrated Pest Management
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a strategy that combines different management methods to control pests and is widely practiced in the EPPO region. Chemical control methods using synthetic plant protection products are an important part of IPM, though there is the desire, both from regulators and the public to reduce the levels of chemicals used in agricultural systems. Biological control, by using beneficial insects, fungi, bacteria, and plant-based substances, can help reduce the need for synthetic chemicals. However, some barriers prevent farmers from fully adopting biocontrol, such as costs, the lack of clear regulations, limited availability of effective products, and doubts about its reliability. For example, in EU Member States, currently only 15 % of all crop/pest combinations have a biological control agent approved. Further research is needed to increase the number of available biological control agents. In addition, sustainable pest management can include an area wide management approach, promoting interconnectivity of agricultural and natural systems and the utilization of existing food webs. If these and other aspects are addressed, biocontrol could become an integral component in IPM by reducing the use of chemical plant protection products. The current publication provides a useful review of methods and strategies for biological control in an IPM framework.
Sources
Galli M, Feldmann F, Vogler UK, Kogel KH (2024) Can biocontrol be the game changer in integrated pest management? A review of definitions, methods and strategies. Journal of Plant Diseases and Protection 131, 265-291. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41348-024-00878-1