Biological Control Potential of Entomopathogenic Fungi

TOLEDO, A. V.

Microbial Insecticides: Principles and Aplications

Nova Science Publishers Inc.

Lugar: New York; Año: 2011; p. 29 - 46

Fungi have one of the widest host ranges among arthropod pathogens . Theoretical and practical researches have focused on several aspects of fungi biology, physiology, ecology, and epidemiology, but predominantly from the viewpoint of their potential in host population regulation. In an Integrated Pest Management program, fungi are compatible with some fungicides and many other types of pesticides, although their activity is strongly influenced by the environment. This chapter shows how some of the abiotic and biotic factors of the environment, as well as the interactions between fungal pathogens and their hosts, influence the use of entomopathogenic fungi as biological control agents.