Author
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Lacey, Lawrence |
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Submitted to: Controle Microbiano de Pragas na America Latina Avancos e Desafios
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 4/10/2008 Publication Date: 5/10/2008 Citation: Lacey, L.A. 2008. Forward. In: Controle Microbiano de Pragas na America Latina Avancos e Desafios (S.B. Alves and R.B. Lopes, eds.) pp 19-20. Biblioteca de Ciencias Agrarias Luiz de Queiroz. Interpretive Summary: A multitude of insects and mites attack crops, humans and their domestic animals throughout the tropics and in temperate regions. The traditional method for controlling most of these pests is the application of broad spectrum chemical pesticides. Growing concern over the negative environmental effects of pesticides has encouraged development of alternatives to broad spectrum chemical pesticides. Insect-specific pathogens have been developed as alternatives to chemical pesticides for control of a wide variety of insect and mite pests of humans and a number of crops in Latin America, especially in Brazil. A scientist at the USDA-ARS Laboratotory in Wapato, WA and several scientists throughout Brazil, have reviewed the literature on microbial control of insect pests in Latin America and provide suggestions for integration of insect pathogens into integrated pest management of these pests. Technical Abstract: Broad spectrum pesticides have traditionally been used for pest control, serious concerns regarding a variety of deleterious effects associated with these non-selective pesticides and the questionable sustainability of this strategy have stimulated interest and action in the development of softer alternative control strategies. Microbial control agents (viruses, bacteria, fungi and nematodes) offer alternatives to chemical pesticides that are safe and provide selective options for integrated pest management and sustainable agriculture. The strategies for their use include all categories of biological control (conservation, augmentation, classical). Despite obstacles for widespread grower acceptance, the pace of research and development of microbial control in Latin America, especially in Brazil, has been growing over the past 30+ years. The continuing success of microbial control in Latin America is evident from the number of papers presented at meetings such as SICONBIOL, the increasing number of scientific publications, and the growth of programs employing microbial control. As evidenced in the 16 chapters of the book “Controle Microbiano de Pragas na América Latina: Avanços e Desafios”, the successful production and use of microbial control agents in Latin America has been amply demonstrated by a large cadre of highly qualified researchers. Brazil in particular has led the way in the rapid and successful development of microbial control agents and strategies for their implementation. Currently more the four million hectares in the country are treated with microbial control agents for control of several agricultural and public health pests. The examples provided by the authors of “Controle Microbiano de Pragas na América Latina: Avanços e Desafios” for large scale control of key pests should be an inspiration not only for Latin America, but also the world. |
