biocontroll

Biocontroll, also known as biological control, is the reduction of pest populations, disease organisms, or invasive species through the use of living organisms. The approach relies on natural enemies such as predators, parasitoids, pathogens, or competitive microorganisms to suppress target pests in agricultural, horticultural, and urban ecosystems. Biocontrol can be implemented as part of integrated pest management and seeks to provide long-term suppression with minimal environmental disruption.

Biocontroll methods are categorized into classical, augmentative, and conservation strategies. Classical biological control introduces established natural enemies from the pest’s region of origin to establish self-sustaining control. Augmentative biocontrol involves periodic releases of additional natural enemies, either in small inoculative quantities or large inundative releases. Conservation biocontrol aims to protect and enhance existing natural enemies by habitat management or selecting compatible pest-control tactics, such as avoiding broad-spectrum pesticides.

Common biocontrol agents include predatory insects like lady beetles and lacewings, parasitoid wasps such as Aphidius and Cotesia species, and microbial agents including Bacillus thuringiensis, Beauveria bassiana, and Metarhizium anisopliae. Entomopathogenic nematodes are also used against soil-dwelling pests. Biocontroll measures are often species-specific and operate best under suitable environmental conditions, and they are a central component of integrated pest management.

Limitations include delayed action, variable efficacy, potential non-target effects, and regulatory or ecological concerns with introducing organisms. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure safety and effectiveness.