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ARS Home » Midwest Area » Peoria, Illinois » National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research » Crop Bioprotection Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #380971
Research Project: Discovery and Production of Beneficial Microbes for Control of Agricultural Pests through Integration into Sustainable Agricultural Production Systems

Location: Crop Bioprotection Research

Title: Formulations of entomopathogens as bioinsecticides

Author
item Behle, Robert
item BITHISEL, TIM - Retired Non ARS Employee

Submitted to: Mass Production of Beneficial Organisms: Invertebrates and Entomopathogens
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 7/25/2022
Publication Date: 9/20/2022
Citation: Behle, R.W., Bithisel, T. 2022. Formulations of entomopathogens as bioinsecticides. In: Mass Production of Beneficial Organisms: Invertebrates and Entomopathogens. 2nd edition. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Elsevier. pp. 407-429.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/C2018-0-00128-0

Interpretive Summary: Proper formulation of mass-produced microbial agents is critical for successful commercialization as biopesticides. Formulation research generally focuses on biological (viability, efficacy, etc.) and physical (form, mixing, application, etc.) aspects of potential biopesticide products. This chapter covers a wide range of formulation related topics that require consideration during creation of ecologically benign and cost effective pest control products. This chapter provides both general and specific information on this critical aspect in the development of microbial-based biopesticides.

Technical Abstract: Developing a proper formulation is a necessary component for commercialization of entomopathogenic microbes as biological insecticides. The objective of this chapter is to present broad-ranging information about formulations to foster research toward developing commercial microbial-based insecticides. There are numerous combinations of pathogens, ingredients, processes, formulation types and application environments to consider for potential commercial biopesticides. Suitable combinations can be identified by a thorough understanding of the entire system beginning with the microbe through various manufacturing processes to the application environment. Key factors can then be addressed by applying specific formulation technologies. Formulation research generally focuses on biological (viability, efficacy, etc.) and physical (form, mixing, application, etc.) aspects of potential biopesticide products. Formulation scientists also need to consider how processes and ingredients impact worker safety, manufacture hazards, and product registration. Such is the breadth of information presented in this chapter.