ARS | Publication request: METHODS FOR PRODUCING STABLE, EFFECTIVE MICROBIAL BIOINSECTICIDES

Submitted to: United States of America and Mexico Symposium
Publication Type: Proceedings/Symposium
Publication Acceptance Date: December 3, 2004
Publication Date: December 15, 2004
Citation: Jackson, M.A. 2004. Methods for producing stable, effective microbial bioinsecticides [CD-ROM]. Proceedings of the Biotechnological Processes Workshop, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, San Nicolas de los Garza, Neuvo Leon, Mexico, November 29-December 3, 2004.

Technical Abstract: The control of insects with microbial biopesticides has been practiced using bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens. The biopesticide or 'inundative' approach to biological control mimics chemical control practices in that massive quantities of pathogens or antagonists of the insect pest are applied, as needed. Most bacterial biocontrol agents produce specific insecticidal compounds that kill the insect host following ingestion. Most viral bioinsecticides must also be ingested by the insect host to be effective. Conversely, most fungal bioinsecticides are capable of actively infecting, colonizing, and killing their insect host. The selection of the appropriate biocontrol agent for a given insect pest is dependent on the biology of the pest-pathogen interaction. Bacterial and viral biocontrol agents effectively control foraging insect pests. Fungal biocontrol agents work well as contact biopesticides. Commercial requirements for use of all biopesticides include low-cost production methods, stable products with an adequate shelf-life, and consistent pest control under field conditions. Commercial production processes for biopesticidal propagules include production in a living host, liquid-culture fermentation, and solid-substrate fermentation. All production methods must be optimized to yield high concentrations of stable, effective biopesticidal propagules. In general, biopesticidal propagules are stabilized as dry preparations. Production, formulation, and application technology all play key roles in assuring consistent pest control. The development of living microbial biopesticides for insects has augmented current chemical pest control measures by providing farmers and greenhouse operators with an additional pest control tool.