Shehri Kisaan

Biopesticides are naturally derived agents used for controlling pests, including insects, weeds, fungi, bacteria, and viruses, in agricultural and horticultural environments. They are considered an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides, offering effective pest control while minimizing harm to the environment, non-target species, and human health. Here is a detailed description of biopesticides:

• Microbial Pesticides:

  • Bacteria: Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a well-known example, producing toxins that kill insect larvae.
  • Fungi: Beauveria bassiana infects and kills various insect pests.
  • Viruses: Insect-specific viruses, such as nuclear polyhedrosis viruses (NPVs), target and kill specific insect species.
  • Nematodes: Parasitic nematodes that infect and kill insect larvae in the soil.

• Biochemical Pesticides:

  • Plant Extracts: Neem oil, pyrethrins (from chrysanthemums), and essential oils that repel or kill pests.
  • Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs): Substances that interfere with the growth and development of insects, such as juvenile hormone analogs.
  • Pheromones: Chemicals used to disrupt pest mating by confusing or attracting them to traps.