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ARS Home » Midwest Area » Columbia, Missouri » Biological Control of Insects Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #255940
Title: New Frontiers in the Biological Control of Insects

Author
item Coudron, Thomas
item Popham, Holly
item Shelby, Kent
item Stanley, David

Submitted to: Arthropod Mass Rearing and Quality Control Workshop
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 8/15/2010
Publication Date: 10/19/2010
Citation: Coudron, T.A., Popham, H.J., Shelby, K., Stanley, D.W. 2010. New Frontiers in the Biological Control of Insects [abstract]. Arthropod Mass Rearing and Quality Control Workshop. p. 65-66.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The greening movement, food security and safety, climate change and expanding applications provide opportunities for growth of the biological control industry. Plant biofortification, cost of biocontrol agent production, regulatory restrictions and non-producer decision-making present challenges to the industry. These opportunities and challenges are influencing research efforts intended to improve biological control efforts. As a result, biocontrol is undergoing a seismic shift from classical control toward conservation strategies. Two additional concepts are breeding of native beneficial agents for improved performance and increasing the susceptibility of pest insects to beneficial agents. The Biological Control of Insects Research Laboratory is developing these two ideas and partnering with producers to test the feasibility and effectiveness of their application.