Entomopathogens for Biocontrol in Agriculture: Current Research and Future Challenges

Abstract

The implementation of effective resources in agricultural practices with minimal effects on the ecosystem is the foundation of agro-environmental sustainability. Indeed, insect pests are the key factors causing crop losses. Over the past 50 years, a variety of agrochemicals have been used to combat crop losses brought on by insect pests. However, greater awareness of the risks associated with chemical pesticides, as well as other insect resistance and revival issues, makes the use of alternative pest management methods necessary. The use of entomopathogens such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and nematodes in biological control methods provides an excellent substitute that is effective against a variety of insect pests and pathogens. These are also is safe, affordable, and simple to implement. Because of their astonishing qualities, entomopathogens have a lot of potential for suppressing pest populations. While bacteria are host-specific, fungi are more widely distributed, and other viruses and nematodes possess specific killing mechanisms. All these entomopathogens greatly affect both terrestrial insect pests and soil-dwelling insect pests. These virulent pathogens kill target insect pests by penetrating through natural apertures, ingestions, and sometimes through integuments. They reduce pesticide use, enhance environmental health, maintain productivity, and protect natural resources. Furthermore, investigations are still being conducted to find other potential elements, particularly looking into potential entomopathogens. To address the current problems, knowledge about their identification, mechanism of action, applications, bioformulation development, and commercialization is therefore required. The present review article provides insight by revealing the biocontrol potential of entomopathogens for sustainable pest management.