Encyclopaedia of Biological Control of Insect and Pest

Biological control of pests in agriculture is a method of controlling pests (including insects, mites, weeds and plant diseases) that relies on predation, parasitism, herbivory, or other natural mechanisms. It can be an important component of integrated pest management (IPM) programmes. Biological control is defined as the reduction or protection of pest populations by natural enemies and typically involves an active human role. . Natural enemies of insect pests, also known as biological control agents, include predators, parasitoids, and pathogens. Biological control agents of plant diseases are most often referred to as antagonists. Biological control agents of weeds include herbivores and plant pathogens. The book is divided into several chapters representing different ways of looking at crop protection. This book will be highly beneficial to students, teachers and research workers in the field of biological control of insects.