Fungi as biocontrol agent: An alternate to chemicals

Abstract

To increase production, we are using fungicides indiscriminately leading to much negative effect on humans, animals and environment. An alternative to these fungicide is application of biological control agents which not only helps directly in management of diseases below economic threshold level but also have many folds beneficial effect on growth and production. Out of these biocontrol agent’s fungus plays very important role. These fungi are ubiquitous in nature, and many strains are present within the species making it more specific against insects and diseases. They are self-sustainable since spores are the means by which the infection occurs, which are produced in large numbers and are produced continuously as long as the growth conditions for it remain favourable. Thus, cost of application is also reduced. Moreover, their handing and application are also convenient, and they neither cause any harmful effect to humans and livestock nor cause any other environmental issues. The main advantage is that they readily fit into the integrated management programmes.