Biological control in Latin America and the Caribbean
The benefits and risk of native and exotic biological control agents was assessed from Latin America, and the Caribbean. Information was collected through literature and databases (e.g. BIOCAT database). A biological control agent was assessed as successful when it is detailed in the literature that it plays a role in pest reduction. In total, 1099 biocontrol agents were identified as used in arthropod biocontrol in Latin America and the Caribbean. Approximately, 40% of these biological control agents were exotic to the region. Depending on the type of biological control used (e.g., natural, conservation, classical or augmentative biocontrol), pest reduction was achieved between 40 – 100 %. Eighty-eight percent of the established exotic parasitoids introduced to Latin America and the Caribbean had a pest-reducing effect. Most of these biological control agents were introduced as classical biocontrol agents, though a large number were also utilised in augmentative biological control programmes. Of predators, 370 native biological control agents were recorded, all of which had a pest-reducing effect. Of the 55 species of exotic predators which have been recorded as established, 78% are recorded as having a pest-reducing effect. Many species contributed to significant reductions in pest populations and, thus, provided an important benefit in the form of sustainable pest management. This approach offers an environmentally sound alternative to conventional synthetic chemical pest control, minimizing pollution and reducing risks to field workers, consumers, and non-target organisms.
Sources
Van Lenteren JC, Buenio VH (2026) Benefits and risks of native and exotic biological control agents used in Latin America and the Caribbean: performance of 1099 arthropod natural enemies. Neotropical Entomology 55, 69 https://doi.org/10.1007/s13744-026-01412-8