biopesticide

A biopesticide is a pesticide derived from natural materials, including microorganisms, plants, animals, and minerals. Biopesticides are designed to control pests with mechanisms that are often more targeted and less persistent in the environment than conventional chemical pesticides.

Major categories include microbial pesticides, plant-derived products, biochemical pesticides, and plant-incorporated protectants. Microbial pesticides use living organisms such as Bacillus thuringiensis, Beauveria bassiana, or Metarhizium species to suppress pests. Plant-derived products include neem oil and pyrethrins. Biochemical pesticides use semiochemicals such as pheromones for mating disruption or pest monitoring, and plant-incorporated protectants are pesticidal proteins produced by a genetically modified crop.

Biopesticides typically act in specific ways: microbial pesticides may colonize pests or produce toxins; botanical products often disrupt feeding or repellent behavior; semiochemicals attract or confuse pests; and PIPs produce active proteins in planta. Because of their targeted action, they are often used within integrated pest management programs to reduce reliance on broad-spectrum pesticides.

Advantages include lower risk to humans and non-target organisms, reduced residue concerns, and compatibility with natural enemies. Limitations include variable field efficacy due to environmental conditions, narrower pest spectrum, higher costs, and potential development of pest resistance if not managed properly.

Regulation typically requires registration and labeling to ensure safety and efficacy. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency evaluates biopesticides; in the European Union, EFSA coordinates authorizations. Biopesticides are generally considered safer alternatives but still require careful assessment of non-target effects and resistance management.

Research continues to expand the range of targets and improve formulations, shelf life, and delivery methods, with emphasis on sustainable agriculture and compatibility with farming systems that rely on ecological pest control.