Role of entomopathogenic fungi in controlling agricultural pests

Abstract

Entomopathogenic fungi are considered important natural enemies that contribute to limit pest spread with minimal negative effects to the environment. Infection with entomopathogenic fungi reduces the potential of insect host for nutrition, reduce its fertility and ultimately causing its death. Fungus spores penetrate the host surface by both mechanical pressure and enzymatic action. It is worth noting that virulence of different isolates and their pathogenicity differ with different hosts. Environmental conditions, especially temperature, humidity and solar radiation play an important role in the ability of pathogenic fungi to cause infection and sporulation. Entomopathogenic fungi can be used in biological control in different ways, as to introduce it in long term control programs, or by submerging plants into biocontrol pathogens. The rate of fungus spread and its ability to reduce pest population can be strengthened by conservation procedures. Interest in entomopathogenic fungi in the Arab world has increased recently. Many fungi were studied and tested against numerous pests and showed efficacy in their control under both lab and field conditions, therefore their use in integrated management programs has become a promising approach.