Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) play an important role in integrated pest management due to their potential to infect and kill large numbers of insect pests. Important EPF being used are Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae, Lecanicillium lecanii, and Hirsutella thompsonii, known for their pathogenicity through spore adhesion, cuticle penetration, and systemic colonization. Host specificity varies among species and strains, enabling targeted control with minimal impact on non-target organisms. EPF have been successfully applied in various field conditions against pests in crops, forests, and stored products, either through direct spraying or soil application. The compatibility of EPF with other pest management strategies, such as chemical pesticides, parasitoids, and cultural practices, is vital for integrated pest management (IPM) programs. However, their efficacy can be affected by abiotic factors like temperature, humidity, and UV radiation. Challenges such as limited persistence, slow action compared to chemicals, and difficulties in large-scale production and formulation remain significant hurdles. Recent advancements in biotechnology, formulation technology, and strain improvement offer promising prospects for enhancing fungal virulence and environmental tolerance. Future research should focus on improving field stability, understanding fungal ecology, and integrating EPF with other sustainable approaches to formulate a strong IPM.

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Entomopathogenic Fungi as Biocontrol Agents

  • Abhishek Rana,
  • Jeer Vinayaka,
  • Karthik Ramappa,
  • C. V. Nandeesha,
  • Saurabh Dubey,
  • Imtinungsang Jamir,
  • Ravinder Singh Chandel,
  • Abhishek Katoch,
  • Pooja Kapoor

摘要

Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) play an important role in integrated pest management due to their potential to infect and kill large numbers of insect pests. Important EPF being used are Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae, Lecanicillium lecanii, and Hirsutella thompsonii, known for their pathogenicity through spore adhesion, cuticle penetration, and systemic colonization. Host specificity varies among species and strains, enabling targeted control with minimal impact on non-target organisms. EPF have been successfully applied in various field conditions against pests in crops, forests, and stored products, either through direct spraying or soil application. The compatibility of EPF with other pest management strategies, such as chemical pesticides, parasitoids, and cultural practices, is vital for integrated pest management (IPM) programs. However, their efficacy can be affected by abiotic factors like temperature, humidity, and UV radiation. Challenges such as limited persistence, slow action compared to chemicals, and difficulties in large-scale production and formulation remain significant hurdles. Recent advancements in biotechnology, formulation technology, and strain improvement offer promising prospects for enhancing fungal virulence and environmental tolerance. Future research should focus on improving field stability, understanding fungal ecology, and integrating EPF with other sustainable approaches to formulate a strong IPM.