Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
greenhouse and field, there are few commercially
available biocontrol products. The reasons may
be due to:
An insufficient understanding of the mode of
action of most biocontrol agents;
To need to develop mass production and
delivery systems;
Little methodology for integrating biocontrol
with other
There have been searches in recent years for
“natural” substances that may bear profound anti-
fungal/antibacterial properties and that exhibit
low mammalian and environmental toxicities.
These chemicals are termed biocompatible and
there are four of interest:
Neem from the neem tree (Melis azedarach)
Bicarbonates (used in baking)
Horticultural oils
Strobilurins (from fungal extracts)
Some of these have now been formulated
for the commercial market and are exhibiting
excellent disease control. There are numerous
biocompatible chemicals under investigation for
their efficacy in disease and pest control. The
great benefit of these products is their safety for
the user and the environment.
control
strategies
and crop
production methods; and
Competition of the biocontrol agent with other
microorganisms.
It should also be recognized that biocontrol
products are effective against specific pathogens
and that the use of pesticides on foliage or soil
may have detrimental effects on the biocontrol
agent.
