Artificial intelligence in the mass production of natural enemies for biological control in modern agriculture

The increasing challenges posed by pest infestations in contemporary agriculture demand sustainable alternatives to conventional pesticides. Biological control (BC), which utilizes natural enemies (NEs) such as predators and parasitoids, offers an eco-friendly approach to pest management. However, large-scale production of NEs faces significant challenges, including high costs, time-consuming processes, and inconsistent quality. Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being applied in modern agriculture to enhance the efficient mass production of NEs for BC. By leveraging automation, machine learning (ML), computer vision, and real-time data analytics, AI can improve key aspects of NEs production, including diet formulation, environmental control, behavioral monitoring, and quality assurance. AI-driven systems promote consistency and scalability in NE manufacturing, while adaptive feedback mechanisms enable continuous process optimization. Furthermore, AI supports the development of predictive models and customized distribution strategies, ensuring the timely and effective deployment of NEs. Despite challenges such as high initial investment and limited data availability, the integration of AI in NEs production holds considerable promise for cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable BC strategies. This review explores the intersection of AI and BC, highlighting current applications, key challenges, and future opportunities in AI-enhanced BC and NEs mass production. It synthesizes recent advancements and identifies research gaps, providing a comprehensive overview of AI's evolving impact on crop protection. By optimizing NE production and reducing dependence on chemical inputs, AI contributes to improved biodiversity, alignment with global sustainability goals, and a more resilient agricultural future. These insights are valuable for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers working toward sustainable and inclusive pest management solutions. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.