Author
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McGuire, Michael |
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Submitted to: Entomology International Congress
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 8/20/2000 Publication Date: 8/20/2000 Citation: MCGUIRE, M.R. FORMULATION AND APPLICATION OF BIOPESTICIDES. ENTOMOLOGY INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS. 2000. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Biopesticides, such as those based on insect pathogens, offer an alternative to chemical insecticides. However, commercialization of biopesticides has lagged behind expectations. There are several issues involved with their lack of use, including poor shelf stability, limited host range, time to kill, and poor residual activity after application. Unlike most chemicals that work on contact, most biopesticides must be ingested to be effective. The challenge of increasing the acceptance of biopesticides by the consumer must be met with a new paradigm of formulation and application technology. Insect pathogens are particulate, and suspension problems may be an issue in the spray tank. They lose activity quickly under direct sunlight, and additives may be necessary to shield the active agent from ultraviolet light. Insects must ingest active agents that may be unpalatable (e.g., Bt) so feeding stimulants may be necessary. Application technology also must be addressed to ensure proper deposition and placement of the active agents. Conventional hydraulic applications over the top of plants will have limited success, especially with sunlight sensitive active agents. Recent developments in several laboratories will be discussed relevant to improved biopesticide formulation and application procedures. |
