Microbial- and plant-based biopesticides for management of crop pests and diseases: a bibliographical analysis
摘要
Pesticide use for controlling agricultural pests is now a significant public concern, primarily due to the associated risks to health and the environment. This paper explores the growing field of biopesticides. We analyze the development, production methods, and agricultural uses of these biological alternatives, along with a discussion of market trends and novel technologies in their extraction and formulation. To assess current trends, more than 7000 Scopus-indexed documents on biopesticides from 1985 to 2024 were analyzed via VOSviewer software. The three classes of biopesticides—biochemicals, microbials, and plant-incorporated protectants—are distinguished by their active ingredients. Representing 5% of the global pesticide market, microbial biopesticides dominate this sector, with North America leading in biopesticides market share. The growing scientific literature, as reflected by 7332 publications in 2024, underscores the interest in biopesticides. India emerges as a global leader in research output, with 1656 publications, followed by the USA (1252) and China (907). Bioactive compounds extracted from Lamiaceae and Bacillus demonstrated potent efficacy in controlling pests and diseases. Furthermore, the extraction from plant sources has evolved, moving from standard methods to more advanced techniques like ultrasound- and microwave-assisted extraction. A combination of conventional and novel methods has been shown to optimize bioactive compound efficiency. Moreover, nanotechnology offers innovative solutions for formulation, enabling the incorporation of bioactive compounds into nanostructures. These nanocarriers facilitate their controlled release and targeted delivery. Indeed, 5848 biopesticides were patented until 2024; China holds the majority with 4352 products. Such advancements herald a new era in biopesticide development. Sustainability in pest management will be improved by incorporating advanced technologies. However, the adoption of biopesticides is constrained by regulatory challenges and formulation complexities, requiring collaborative efforts to streamline regulatory pathways and foster market integration.