Parasitoids as biocontrol agents in India

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Entomology
• Biological Control
• Agroecology

Background:

• Chemical pesticide resistance and environmental concerns necessitate sustainable pest management alternatives.
• Parasitoids have emerged as a viable long-term solution for managing insect pests in agriculture.
• India's adoption of parasitoid-based pest management aligns with global trends.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the historical development and current status of parasitoid-based biocontrol in India.
• To identify challenges and advancements in implementing effective parasitoid-centered pest management strategies.
• To explore the role of parasitoids in stabilizing agroecological dynamics for sustainable food systems.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of parasitoid utilization in Indian agriculture.
• Analysis of classical, conservative, and augmentative biocontrol techniques.
• Examination of factors influencing biocontrol efficiency, including ecological and policy aspects.

Main Results:

• Successful implementation of various parasitoid-based biocontrol strategies in India.
• Identification of key factors for efficient biocontrol: phenology, deployment, quality control, environmental conditions, habitat management, and policy.
• Recent advancements in mass production and understanding ecological interactions enhance biocontrol prospects.

Conclusions:

• Parasitoids are crucial for sustainable agriculture, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides.
• Effective implementation requires addressing climate adaptability, ecological compatibility, and supportive policies.
• Continued research and strategic deployment of parasitoids can stabilize agroecosystems and support food security in India.