The entomopathogenic fungi Isaria farinosa (formerly Paecilomyces farinosus) and the Isaria fumosorosea species complex (formerly Paecilomyces fumosoroseus): biology, ecology and use in biological control

Abstract

The entomopathogenic fungi, Isaria farinosa and Isaria fumosorosea were known as Paecilomyces farinosus and Paecilomyces fumosoroseus, for more than 30 years. Both fungi have a worldwide distribution and a relatively wide host range. While I. farinosa currently is of minor importance in research and as biocontrol agent, I. fumosorosea is regarded as a species complex, and various strains are successfully used for biocontrol of several pest insects, mainly whiteflies. During the past 40 years, numerous scientific papers on both fungal species covering various research areas were published. This is the first monographic review on the biology, ecology and use of I. farinosa and I. fumosorosea as biocontrol agents. In the following compilation, data on the identity, natural occurrence and geographical distribution, host range, production of metabolites, effect of abiotic and biotic factors (temperature, relative humidity, solar radiation, fungus, host plant) and on the use of these species in biocontrol experiments against pest insects, plant pathogens and nematodes in the laboratory and the field are summarised. Sections on their effects on non-target organisms and safety issues are also included. The aim of this review is to increase our knowledge on these entomopathogenic fungi.