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ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #267569
Title: Biological control: Insect pathogens, parasitoids, and predators

Author
item Flinn, Paul
item SCHOLLER, MATTHIAS - Federal Research Centre (FAL)

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 5/26/2011
Publication Date: 9/1/2012
Citation: Flinn, P.W., Scholler, M. 2012. Biological control: Insect pathogens, parasitoids, and predators. In: Hagstrum, D.W., Phillips, T.W., Cuperus, G., editors. Stored Product Protection. S156. Manhattan, KS: Kansas State University. p. 203-212.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: This book chapter provides an overview of biological control of insect pests of stored grain and stored products. The advantages and disadvantages of biological control for stored-product insect control are discussed. There are several species of protozoa, viruses, and bacteria that could be used to control stored-product insects; however, none are commercially available in the USA. An in-depth discussion of the use of insect parasitoids and predators to control stored-product moths and beetles is provided. The use of these control agents in commercial facilities provides insight into the problems of using biological control in both the USA and in Europe. Biological control can be successfully integrated with other management techniques, such as aeration and sanitation. Insecticidal protectants will probably not be compatible with parasitoids because beneficial insects are typically more susceptible to insecticides than their hosts. Although parasitoids and predators of stored-product insects have been marketed in the USA, there are currently few companies that rear beneficial insects for stored-product insect biological control. With the rapid growth of the organic food industry, there may be increased interest in biological control in the future.