BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF PEST AND WEED MANAGEMENT
Authored By Awanindra Kumar Tiwari, Wajid Hasan, Milind D. Joshi, Pradeep Natthuji Dawane, Radhika Negi, Sheetanshu Gupta, Dhirendra Kumar
Biological Control of Insect Pests and Weeds is meticulously organized to provide readers with a logical and comprehensive understanding of biological control as a fundamental component of sustainable agriculture. The textbook is divided into four detailed units, each focusing on specific aspects of biological control, from theoretical underpinnings to practical applications. This structured approach ensures that readers can build on their knowledge progressively while gaining deep insights into both the science and implementation of biological control strategies.
Unit Ilays the foundational knowledge by discussing the history, principles, and scope of biological control. Unit II examines the biology and behavior of predatory and parasitic organisms that are critical to effective biological control. Unit III addresses the practical aspects of biological control, focusing on the mass production, formulation, and deployment of biocontrol agents. Unit IV evaluates the impact and future directions of biological control practices. It features case studies of successful biological control projects from around the world, providing real-world examples of how these strategies can be implemented effectively.
Throughout the book, emphasis is placed on the integration of biological control within broader pest management systems, considering environmental, economic, and social factors. The text is enriched with diagrams, tables, and photographs to aid in the understanding of complex concepts and to visualize the biological phenomena discussed. Each chapter concludes with key points, review questions, and references to encourage further exploration and critical thinking about the topics covered.
By the end of this textbook, readers will have gained a comprehensive understanding of biological control, equipped with both the theoretical insights and practical knowledge necessary to contribute to the field of integrated pest management. The aim is to inspire and educate a new generation of scientists and practitioners who will champion the adoption and innovation of biological control techniques, ensuring the sustainability of agricultural practices and the preservation of ecological health worldwide.
Awanindra Kumar Tiwari: is currently working as a Scientist- Plan Protection (Entomology) at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Raebareli of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, UP. He has completed his Ph.D. (Agricultural Zoology and Entomology) from the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj. He has 15 years’ experience as a Scientist. He obtained the Excellence in Extension Award and the Best KVK Scientist Award. He has published many national and international research papers, many Books, chapters, and popular articles. He has participated in and presented papers on different topics at national and international workshops, seminars, and conferences. Dr. Tiwari has vast experience and expertise in Apiculture, Economic Entomology, Applied Entomology, Biological Control, Integrated Pest Management, Organic Farming, and Natural Farming.
Wajid Hasan: PhD PDF, is devoted toresearch and extension activities in Agriculture Entomology. Dr Hasan is a Subject Matter Specialist in Entomology at KVK Jehanabad, Bihar Agricultural University in Bihar. He was awarded Dr DS Kothari UGC-Post Doctoral Fellow (PDF) in 2010, offered by the University Grant Commission of India. He holds a doctorate in Agricultural Entomology from GB Pant University of Agri & Tech, Pantnagar, UK, India. He has good terms with farmers, and he serves them as an adviser for plant protection measures. Dr Hasan has received eleven awards from several societies for his outstanding contribution to the relevant discipline. He has 75 research papers, 42 books, 65 book chapters, 45 popular articles, 140 success stories, 3 Practical Manuals, 16 success stories and 52 delivered lectures in different seminars/symposia/conferences/workshops and seven radio talks. Dr Hasan stayed as the chief organizer for eleven international conferences with more than three thousand participants each and managed a team of about three hundred co-organizers each. He has also organized 589 training programs for farmers, rural youth and agricultural professionals with 24250 participants. In addition, he has conducted three skill development training programs of 200 hours each and 45 On-Farm Trials (OFT). Dr Hasan has a lifetime membership in 6 scientific societies. He is the Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Agricultural and Applied Sciences (IJAAS) and an Editorial board member for 5 scientific International Journals.
Milind D. Joshi: Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Protection), Agricultural Development Trust’s Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Baramati, has more than 15 years of experience in research and extension. He has a Ph.D. in Agricultural Entomology. He has been awarded 8 various state & national-level awards for his contribution to the field of agriculture. He has visited 6 countries viz. The Netherlands, Turkey, Belgium, France, Spain & Indonesia for exposure. He is also the Editorial Member for various journals and magazines. He is also the Technical Committee Member and Advisor for various organizations. He has attended more than 31 seminars, conferences, and workshops and about 19 trainings, summer schools, and winter schools. He has published over 35 professional research papers in International and National refereed Journals in agriculture. He also has more than 50 popular articles and about 30 radio talks for the benefit of the farming community.He is the Principal Investigator for the ICAR-funded Project on All India Coordinated Research Project on Honey Bee & Pollinators for Maharashtra State. He also has been the Principal Investigator for DBT and other projects of government & private funding.
Pradeep Natthuji Dawane: is engaged in research at, the Department of Agriculture Entomology, Regional Fruit Research station Katol, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra. He completed his Ph. D. (Agril. Entomology) in 2013 from Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, (M.S.), M. Sc. (Agril. Entomology) in 1998 from College of Agriculture, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, (M. S.) with remarkable distinction of being in his field of study. He has attended several National and International conferences, Seminars, and Conclave, where he received several prestigious Awards for his research including the Best Oral Presentation Award. He has been Awarded the Distinguished Scientist Award 2023 and Eminent Scientist Award 2023. The author has published more than 25 Research Articles and 5 Popular Articles in National and International journals and Magazines. One textbook published Introductory Nematology by Agromet publishers Dharmpeth, Nagpur (M. S.).
Radhika Negi: is presently working as a Subject Matter Specialist (Vegetable Science and Floriculture) at CSK HPKV, KVK, Lahaul, and Spiti 1 at Kukumseri. She has done her post-graduation in Vegetable Science from Dr YSP UHF, Nauni, Solan, and qualified ASRB-ICAR NET in Vegetable Science in 2018. She has 3 years and 8 months of experience in the field of extension and research and is involved in various projects. In recognition oftheir outstanding contribution to the field of Vegetable Science and Floriculture, she washonored with the Young Scientist Award and begged best paper presentation certificate in 3 days International Conference on “Advances in Agriculture, Veterinary and Allied Science for Improving Livelihood and Environmental Security-2022”. She published 7 research papers and review papers/articles in international and national reputed journals, 6 book chapters, 8 popular articles, and 5 abstracts published in different conferences. Besides this, she has conducted and attended numerous training programs (on and off campus), workshops and seminars, etc.
Sheetanshu Gupta: working in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology for the last 12 years, an alumnus of G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, India, ICAR ARS NET (Plant Biochemistry and Plant Physiology) and CSIR NET. Dr. Gupta gained valuable experience in the areas of environmental problems, aeroponics and hydroponics, and protein biochemistry. His work showcased his expertise in applying innovative farming techniques and exploring novel approaches to plant protection. Dr. Gupta researched tissue culture hydroponics and mushroom farming, contributing to the advancement of these fields. Dr. Gupta's academic qualifications, research experience, and expertise in biochemistry and biotechnology make him a valuable asset in the field. With his passion for teaching and research, dedication to innovative farming techniques, and student advocacy, Dr. Gupta continues to contribute significantly to the advancement of agricultural and biochemical sciences with more than 10 published books and nearly 20 Research/ Review papers.
Dhirendra Kumar: is a distinguished Scholar, with more than 15 years of teaching and industrial experience. Currently working as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Botany at Chaudhary Bansi Lal University, Haryana, India. His areas of interest are Plant Biology, Biotechnology, Bioprocess Development, Termite Biology, and Waste Management and currently working on the green synthesis of nanomaterials. In addition, he also received the Outstanding Achievement Award 2021 at the 3rd International Conference (GIAFAS-2021), the Best Young Faculty Award GAREA-2021(Global Academic Research Excellence Award) India, Young Botanist Award 2020” from the Deccan Environmental Research Organization, Bijapur, Karnataka, India. Young Scientist Awards 2015 and 2022 Sponsored by CGCOST (Chhattisgarh Council of Science and Technology), Chhattisgarh State, GAFEF with Tribhuvan University Nepal and India. Currently, he has completed one University research project, has five granted patents (One Australian and four Indian), Four books, 10 book chapters, and more than 25 research papers in good impact International and National reputed Journals with 20+ national and international Conferences/Seminars paper and oral presentations in India and neighboring countries.
1. Unit I
2.Unit II
3.Unit III
4.Unit IV
Biological control stands as a pivotal strategy for managing pest populations through environmentally sustainable methods. As the detrimental impacts of conventional pesticides continue to surface, a growing consensus among scientists, policymakers, and practitioners supports the need to embrace more ecological pest management methods. "Biological Control of Pest and Weed Management" is a comprehensive textbook designed to meet this demand, offering detailed insights into the use of natural processes for controlling pests and weeds. This book is aimed at providing a thorough grounding in the principles, history, and practical applications of biological control. It targets a diverse audience, including students, researchers, and professionals in entomology, ecology, and agricultural sciences, who seek to deepen their knowledge and apply biological control principles effectively. Bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical applications, this textbook serves both as an academic resource and a practical guide. The concept of biological control involves using living organisms—such as insects, mites, nematodes, and microorganisms—to regulate the population of pest species naturally and sustainably. This approach helps reduce the dependence on chemical pesticides, which can lead to environmental degradation and resistance among pest populations, while also promoting biodiversity and ecological balance. Given the interdisciplinary nature of biological control, this textbook provides a comprehensive examination of the biological, ecological, and technological aspects involved.
A. History, Principles, and Scope of Biological Control Biological Control Biological control, defined as the use of living organisms to reduce the population of pest species, stands out as one of the most successful, cost effective, and environmentally friendly methods of pest management. This natural process is intrinsic to maintaining ecological balance and supporting the greenery of our planet by enabling plants to produce the necessary biomass to sustain diverse forms of life. The Essence and Impact of Biological Control Biological control is an omnipresent force in both natural and human-made ecosystems, constantly active without any human intervention. Its origins trace back over 500 million years with the evolution of the first ecosystems. The process involves naturally occurring reductions in pest populations, which historically, have allowed for the flourishing of plant life critical to the earth’s ecological systems. Without these biological control mechanisms, the amount of energy produced by plants would be a fraction of current levels, drastically reducing the earth’s capacity to support life.
A. Biology, Adaptation, and Host-Seeking Behavior of Predatory and Parasitic Insects The study of the biological processes, adaptations, and host-seeking behaviors of predatory and parasitic insects is fundamental for enhancing the efficacy of pest management strategies. These aspects are central to leveraging natural predator and parasite behaviors for biological control. i. Biology of Predatory and Parasitic Insects The study of the biology of predatory and parasitic insects is a cornerstone in understanding how these organisms function as critical components of biological control programs. These insects play a pivotal role as natural enemies of pest species, with physiological and developmental traits finely tuned for the effective management of pest populations. By examining their complex life cycles, reproductive strategies, and other biological traits, researchers can optimize the use of these insects in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
A. Mass Production of Quality Bio-control Agents: Techniques, Formulations, Economics, Field Release/Application, and Evaluation Biological control agents, such as phytophagous insects, play a significant role in integrated pest management by targeting and suppressing weed populations naturally. Effective utilization of these agents requires understanding their mass production, formulation, economics, field release/application, and evaluation. Techniques for Mass Production of Bio-control Agents Mass production of bio-control agents involves rearing insects or other organisms in large quantities while maintaining their effectiveness and quality. The following are key techniques used in mass production: 1. Laboratory Rearing: Laboratory rearing of bio-control agents is a meticulous process that ensures the continuous production of high quality insects under controlled environmental conditions. This technique involves creating optimal conditions for temperature, humidity, and light to simulate natural habitats. Nutritional requirements are met by providing specific diets, which can be natural or artificial, tailored to the needs of the bio-control agents. Breeding protocols are established to manage mating, egg-laying, and larval development cycles efficiently. By controlling these factors, laboratory rearing ensures a stable and sustainable supply of bio-control agents for field application.
A. Successful Biological Control Projects Biological control, the use of natural enemies to manage pest populations, has seen numerous successful implementations globally for example: 1. Control of Cottony Cushion Scale (Icerya purchasi) The case of the cottony cushion scale, Icerya purchasi, in California's citrus orchards serves as a seminal example of biological control's efficacy. Originating from Australia, this pest posed a severe threat to the burgeoning citrus industry in California in the late 19th century. The story of its control through the introduction of natural enemies is not only a landmark in biological control history but also a demonstration of ecological problem-solving. Background and Impact Icerya purchasi is a sap-sucking insect that infests a wide range of host plants but shows a particular fondness for citrus trees. The infestation is damaging as the scale excretes a sticky substance known as honeydew, which promotes the growth of sooty mold, impairing photosynthesis and weakening the plants. The severity of the infestation threatened the economic viability of the citrus industry in California during the 1880s.
Keywords
biological control, insect pests, weeds, sustainable agriculture, predatory organisms, parasitic organisms, biocontrol agents, pest management, environmental factors, economic factors, social factors, integrated pest management, case studies, practical applications, ecological health