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ARS Home » Plains Area » Sidney, Montana » Northern Plains Agricultural Research Laboratory » Pest Management Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #303739
Title: Advances in microbial insect control in horticultural ecosystems

Author
item SHAOHUI, WU - Montana State University
item REDDY, G.V. - Montana State University
item Jaronski, Stefan

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 10/15/2014
Publication Date: 10/15/2014
Citation: Shaohui, W., Reddy, G.P., Jaronski, S. 2014. Advances in microbial insect control in horticultural ecosystems. In: Nandwani, D., editor, Sustainable Horticultural Systems: Sustainable Development and Biodiversity. Switzerland: Springer International Publishing. 2:223-252.

Interpretive Summary: This chapter discusses research advances for entomopathogens, especially commercialization, formulation and application techniques, for microbial biocontrol of insect pests in the horticultural ecosystem.

Technical Abstract: The use of microbial organisms as biological control agents has progressed significantly since Metschnikoff launched the first attempt at microbial insect control with Metarhizium anisopliae in 1879. Following the lead of Metschnikoff, entomopathogenic nematodes, fungi, bacteria and viruses have been extensively studied for commercialization and practical use as biopesticides in inundative releases against insect pests in various cropping systems. However, compared with chemical insecticides, these microbial products represent less than 2% of the total insecticide market share. Factors such as control efficacy, cost, formulation, shelf life, application techniques, and persistence have limited the commercial use of these microbial control agents in insect pest management. This review discusses research advances for entomopathogens, especially commercialization, formulation and application techniques, for microbial biocontrol of insect pests in the horticultural ecosystem.