Abstract
Global food security is threatened by insect pests of economically important crops. Chemical pesticides have been used frequently for the last few decades to manage insect pests throughout the world. However, these chemicals are hazardous for human health as well as the ecosystem. In addition, several pests have evolved resistance to many chemicals. Finding environment friendly alternatives lead the researchers to introduce biocontrol agents such as entomopathogenic fungi (EPF). These fungi include various genera that can infect and kill insects efficiently. Moreover, EPFs have considerable host specificity with a mild effect on non-target organisms and can be produced in bulk quantity quickly. However, insights into the biology of EPF and mechanism of action are of prime significance for their efficient utilization as a biocontrol agent. This review focuses on EPF-mediated insect management by explaining particular EPF strains and their general mode of action. We have comprehensively discussed which criteria should be used for the selection of pertinent EPF, and which aspects can impact the EPF efficiency. Finally, we have outlined various advantages of EPF and their limitations. The article summarizes the prospects related to EPF utilization as biocontrol agents. We hope that future strategies for the management of insects will be safer for our planet.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
