November 21, 2024

Biopesticides meaning types and importance and all you know about it

arvindkasewad1401039 mins

Who is the father of biopesticides?

The first, and still most, widely used biocontrols included spores of the bacteria Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). I n 1901, Bt was isolated from a diseased silkworm by Japanese biologist Shigetane Ishiwata.

What are Biopesticides?

Biopesticides are a type of pest management product derived from natural materials such as animals, plants, bacteria, and certain minerals. They are used to control pests in an environmentally friendly manner.  For example, canola oil and baking soda have pesticidal applications and are considered biopesticides.

What are the classes of Biopesticides ?

Biopesticides are broadly classified into three main categories based on their origin and mode of action. These classes are:

  1. Microbial Pesticides:
    • Definition: These contain microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, fungi, viruses, or protozoans) as the active ingredient.
    • Examples:
      • Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): A bacterium that produces proteins toxic to specific insect larvae.
      • Trichoderma spp.: Fungi used to control plant pathogens by outcompeting harmful fungi.
      • Beauveria bassiana: A fungus that infects and kills various insect pests.
    • Mode of Action: Microbial pesticides typically work by infecting and killing the pest or by producing toxins that are harmful to the pest.
  2. Plant-Incorporated Protectants (PIPs):
    • Definition: These are pesticidal substances that plants produce from genetic material that has been added to the plant.
    • Examples:
      • Bt Corn: Corn genetically modified to produce Bt toxins, which are harmful to specific insect pests.
      • Virus-resistant papaya: Papaya modified to be resistant to the Papaya ringspot virus.
    • Mode of Action: The plant itself produces a substance (often a protein) that provides protection against pests or diseases.
  3. Biochemical Pesticides:
    • Definition: These are naturally occurring substances that control pests by non-toxic mechanisms. They include substances like insect pheromones, plant extracts, and certain natural oils.
    • Examples:
      • Neem Oil: Extracted from the neem tree, it acts as an insect repellent and growth regulator.
      • Pyrethrin: Derived from chrysanthemum flowers, it affects the nervous system of insects.
      • Insect pheromones: Used to disrupt the mating patterns of insects, thereby reducing their population.
    • Mode of Action: These substances control pests by interfering with their behavior, such as mating, or by deterring feeding, rather than by directly killing

What are the advantages of using biopesticides?

Biopesticides offer several advantages over conventional chemical pesticides, making them an attractive option for sustainable agriculture and integrated pest management. Here are the key benefits:

Biopesticides offer several advantages over conventional chemical pesticides, making them an attractive option for sustainable agriculture and integrated pest management. Here are the key benefits:

  1. Environmental Safety:
    • Biopesticides are generally less toxic to non-target organisms, including humans, animals, and beneficial insects like pollinators and natural predators of pests. This reduces the risk of ecological imbalances and promotes biodiversity.
  2. Reduced Residues:
    • Biopesticides often degrade more quickly than synthetic pesticides, leading to lower residue levels in food and the environment. This can be beneficial for both consumer health and compliance with regulatory standards.
  3. Target Specificity:
    • Many biopesticides are highly specific to particular pests, which minimizes collateral damage to beneficial insects and other non-target species. This specificity can help maintain the ecological balance in agricultural ecosystems.
  4. Resistance Management:
    • Pests are less likely to develop resistance to biopesticides due to their complex modes of action. This helps in maintaining the long-term effectiveness of pest management strategies.
  5. Compatibility with Integrated Pest Management (IPM):
    • Biopesticides can be easily integrated into IPM programs, which aim to use multiple, complementary strategies for pest control. This integration supports sustainable farming practices by reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.
  6. Safer for Humans and Animals:
    • Biopesticides pose fewer risks to human health and are often safer for farm workers and consumers. They are less likely to cause acute poisoning or long-term health issues compared to synthetic pesticides.
  7. Regulatory and Market Acceptance:
    • Increasing regulatory restrictions on chemical pesticides and growing consumer demand for organic and sustainably produced foods have made biopesticides more attractive in the market. They often face fewer regulatory hurdles and are more acceptable in organic farming systems.
  8. Preservation of Soil and Water Quality:
    • By reducing the use of synthetic chemicals, biopesticides help preserve soil health and water quality. They minimize the risk of soil contamination and water pollution, contributing to overall environmental sustainability.
  9. Versatility and Innovation:
    • Ongoing research and technological advancements are continually expanding the range of available biopesticides, enhancing their effectiveness and applicability to a wider array of crops and pest problems.

These advantages make biopesticides a key component of modern, sustainable agricultural practices, helping to ensure food security while protecting the environment and human health.

What are the most famous biopesticides?

veral biopesticides have gained recognition for their effectiveness in pest management and their environmentally friendly profiles. Here are some of the most famous biopesticides:

  1. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt):
    • Type: Microbial pesticide.
    • Application: Widely used to control insect pests, Bt produces toxins harmful to specific insect larvae when ingested, making it effective against caterpillars, mosquitoes, and blackflies.
    • Example Product: Dipel, Thuricide.
  2. Neem Oil:
    • Type: Biochemical pesticide.
    • Application: Extracted from the neem tree, neem oil acts as an insect repellent and growth regulator. It disrupts the life cycle of pests and is effective against a wide range of insects.
    • Example Product: Neemix, Azatrol.
  3. Spinosad:
    • Type: Microbial pesticide.
    • Application: Derived from the bacterium Saccharopolyspora spinosa, spinosad is effective against various pests like thrips, leafminers, and caterpillars by affecting their nervous system.
    • Example Product: Entrust, Success.
  4. Pyrethrin:
    • Type: Biochemical pesticide.
    • Application: Derived from chrysanthemum flowers, pyrethrin affects the nervous system of insects, leading to paralysis and death. It is used against a wide range of pests, including mosquitoes, flies, and moths.
    • Example Product: Pyganic, EverGreen.
  5. Trichoderma spp.:
    • Type: Microbial pesticide.
    • Application: Trichoderma fungi are used to control plant pathogens by outcompeting harmful fungi. They promote plant growth and protect against diseases.
    • Example Product: RootShield, PlantShield.
  6. Beauveria bassiana:
    • Type: Microbial pesticide.
    • Application: This fungus infects and kills various insect pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and beetles by growing on and inside them.
    • Example Product: BotaniGard, Mycotrol.

These biopesticides are renowned for their efficacy, safety, and environmental sustainability, making them popular choices for integrated pest management in agriculture, horticulture, and forestry.

What plants are used as biopesticides?

 

Several plants and plant-derived substances are utilized as biopesticides due to their natural pesticidal properties. Here are some examples:

  1. Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem oil is one of the most widely used biopesticides. It contains compounds like azadirachtin, which disrupt insect growth and development, repel insects, and deter feeding.
  2. Pyrethrum (Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium): Pyrethrum is derived from the flowers of certain chrysanthemum species. It contains pyrethrins, which are natural insecticides that affect the nervous system of insects, leading to paralysis and death.
  3. Nicotine (Nicotiana spp.): Nicotine is extracted from tobacco plants. It acts as a potent insecticide, affecting the nervous system of insects. However, its use is highly regulated due to its toxicity to humans and non-target organisms.
  4. Rotenone (Derris spp., Lonchocarpus spp.): Rotenone is derived from the roots of certain tropical plants in the genera Derris and Lonchocarpus. It is effective against a wide range of insect pests and fish parasites but is also toxic to fish and aquatic organisms.
  5. Ryania (Ryania speciosa): Ryania is derived from the powdered root of the Ryania speciosa tree. It contains ryanodine, which disrupts insect muscle function, leading to paralysis and death.
  6. Limonene (Citrus spp.): Limonene is a compound found in citrus fruit peels. It acts as an insect repellent and insecticide, disrupting the insect’s respiratory system and causing suffocation.
  7. Garlic (Allium sativum): Garlic extracts have insecticidal properties and are used to repel and control various pests, including aphids, mosquitoes, and caterpillars.
  8. Capsaicin (Capsicum spp.): Capsaicin is the compound responsible for the spicy heat in chili peppers. It has insecticidal properties and is used to repel and deter feeding by certain insects.

These plants and their derivatives offer effective alternatives to synthetic chemical pesticides, providing farmers with natural and environmentally friendly pest control options. However, it’s important to note that while these substances are derived from plants, their use should be regulated and applied with caution to minimize potential risks to humans, non-target organisms, and the environment.

Which biopesticides are used in India?

India, with its diverse agriculture and focus on sustainable practices, utilizes various biopesticides to manage pests effectively. Some of the commonly used biopesticides in India include:

  1. Neem-based products: Neem (Azadirachta indica) is widely utilized in India for its pesticidal properties. Neem oil, neem seed extract, and neem-based formulations are used to control a broad spectrum of pests in crops such as cotton, vegetables, fruits, and pulses.
  2. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): Bt formulations are extensively used in India, particularly in crops like cotton and vegetables, to control caterpillar pests such as bollworms and fruit borers. Bt cotton, engineered to produce Bt toxins, is also widely cultivated in the country.
  3. Pheromone traps and lures: Insect pheromones are utilized in India for monitoring and controlling pests such as fruit flies, moths, and beetles. Pheromone-based traps and lures are commonly employed in orchards, vegetable crops, and stored grain facilities.
  4. Trichoderma: Trichoderma species are used as biocontrol agents to manage soil-borne pathogens and promote plant growth. Trichoderma-based formulations are applied to seeds, soil, or plant roots to suppress diseases and enhance nutrient uptake in crops like vegetables, pulses, and cereals.
  5. Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae: These fungal species are utilized as biopesticides to control various insect pests, including aphids, whiteflies, thrips, and beetles. They are applied as microbial sprays or incorporated into soil to target pests in different cropping systems.
  6. Azadirachtin-based products: Azadirachtin, a compound derived from neem seeds, is used as an insect growth regulator and repellent. Azadirachtin-based formulations are effective against a wide range of pests, including chewing and sucking insects, in crops such as vegetables, fruits, and cereals.
  7. Pongamia (Pongamia pinnata) seed oil: Extracts from pongamia seeds are utilized as biopesticides and insect repellents in India. Pongamia oil formulations are effective against pests like aphids, caterpillars, and leafhoppers in various crops.

These are just a few examples of the biopesticides commonly used in India. The country’s rich biodiversity and emphasis on sustainable agriculture have led to the development and adoption of numerous bio-based pest management products tailored to the diverse agroecological conditions across different regions.

What microbes are used in biopesticides?

Microbial biopesticides utilize various types of microorganisms to control pests. Here are some commonly used microbes in biopesticides:

  1. Bacteria:
    • Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): Produces toxins that are harmful to specific insect larvae, widely used against caterpillars, mosquitoes, and blackflies.
    • Bacillus subtilis: Used to control plant pathogens, particularly fungal diseases, by inhibiting their growth and promoting plant health.
    • Pseudomonas fluorescens: Used to suppress soil-borne pathogens and promote plant growth by producing antibiotics and other compounds that inhibit harmful microorganisms.
  2. Fungi:
    • Trichoderma spp.: Effective against a range of plant pathogens. It acts as a biocontrol agent by outcompeting harmful fungi and enhancing plant growth.
    • Beauveria bassiana: Infects and kills various insect pests by growing on and inside them, leading to death through fungal infection.
    • Metarhizium anisopliae: A fungus that acts as an insect pathogen, effective against pests like beetles, termites, and grasshoppers.
    • Verticillium lecanii (Lecanicillium lecanii): Targets soft-bodied insects like aphids, whiteflies, and thrips.
  3. Viruses:
    • Nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV): Used to control caterpillar pests in crops like cotton and vegetables. The virus infects and kills the larvae of specific insect species.
    • Granulovirus (GV): Effective against specific insect larvae, often used in orchards to control pests like codling moths in apples.
  4. Protozoa:
    • Nosema locustae: Used to control grasshoppers and crickets by infecting and killing these pests through parasitism.

These microbial biopesticides offer targeted pest control with minimal impact on non-target organisms and the environment, making them valuable tools in integrated pest management and sustainable agriculture.

How to use biopesticides?

Using biopesticides effectively involves proper selection, application, and management to ensure optimal pest control while minimizing environmental impact. Here’s a guide on how to use biopesticides:

1. Selection of Biopesticides

  • Identify the Target Pest: Determine the specific pest(s) you need to control.
  • Choose the Appropriate Biopesticide: Select a biopesticide that targets the identified pest. Consider factors like the life stage of the pest, environmental conditions, and crop type.

2. Preparation and Application

  • Read the Label: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines on the biopesticide label for dosage, timing, and method of application.
  • Mixing: Prepare the biopesticide solution according to the instructions. Ensure the equipment used for mixing and application is clean and calibrated.
  • Application Methods:
    • Spraying: Use sprayers to apply liquid formulations evenly over the crop. This method is common for foliar applications.
    • Soil Drenching: Apply the biopesticide directly to the soil to target soil-borne pests or pathogens.
    • Seed Treatment: Coat seeds with biopesticides before planting to protect against soil-borne diseases and pests.
    • Incorporation into Soil: Mix granular or powdered biopesticides into the soil to control pests and pathogens at the root level.
    • Baiting: Use biopesticide baits to attract and kill specific pests.

3. Timing and Frequency

  • Timing: Apply biopesticides at the optimal time for maximum effectiveness, such as during specific pest life stages or early in the morning/late afternoon when conditions are favorable.
  • Frequency: Reapply biopesticides as recommended, considering the pest life cycle and infestation levels. Some biopesticides may require multiple applications for sustained control.

4. Environmental Considerations

  • Weather Conditions: Avoid applying biopesticides during adverse weather conditions like heavy rain or extreme heat, as this can reduce their effectiveness.
  • Non-Target Organisms: Minimize impact on beneficial insects and other non-target organisms by applying biopesticides selectively and following recommended practices.

5. Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

  • Integration: Use biopesticides as part of an integrated pest management (IPM) strategy, combining them with cultural, mechanical, and biological control methods to enhance overall pest control.
  • Monitoring: Regularly monitor pest populations and crop health to assess the effectiveness of biopesticide applications and adjust strategies as needed.

6. Safety Measures

  • Protective Gear: Wear appropriate protective clothing and equipment during mixing and application to avoid exposure.
  • Storage and Disposal: Store biopesticides in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Dispose of any unused biopesticides and containers according to local regulations.

7. Record Keeping

  • Documentation: Keep detailed records of biopesticide applications, including dates, rates, methods, and observed outcomes. This helps in tracking effectiveness and making informed decisions for future pest management.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively use biopesticides to manage pests while supporting sustainable agriculture and protecting the environment.

How to use biopesticides?

Using biopesticides effectively involves proper selection, application, and management to ensure optimal pest control while minimizing environmental impact. Here’s a guide on how to use biopesticides:

1. Selection of Biopesticides

  • Identify the Target Pest: Determine the specific pest(s) you need to control.
  • Choose the Appropriate Biopesticide: Select a biopesticide that targets the identified pest. Consider factors like the life stage of the pest, environmental conditions, and crop type.

2. Preparation and Application

  • Read the Label: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines on the biopesticide label for dosage, timing, and method of application.
  • Mixing: Prepare the biopesticide solution according to the instructions. Ensure the equipment used for mixing and application is clean and calibrated.
  • Application Methods:
    • Spraying: Use sprayers to apply liquid formulations evenly over the crop. This method is common for foliar applications.
    • Soil Drenching: Apply the biopesticide directly to the soil to target soil-borne pests or pathogens.
    • Seed Treatment: Coat seeds with biopesticides before planting to protect against soil-borne diseases and pests.
    • Incorporation into Soil: Mix granular or powdered biopesticides into the soil to control pests and pathogens at the root level.
    • Baiting: Use biopesticide baits to attract and kill specific pests.

3. Timing and Frequency

  • Timing: Apply biopesticides at the optimal time for maximum effectiveness, such as during specific pest life stages or early in the morning/late afternoon when conditions are favorable.
  • Frequency: Reapply biopesticides as recommended, considering the pest life cycle and infestation levels. Some biopesticides may require multiple applications for sustained control.

4. Environmental Considerations

  • Weather Conditions: Avoid applying biopesticides during adverse weather conditions like heavy rain or extreme heat, as this can reduce their effectiveness.
  • Non-Target Organisms: Minimize impact on beneficial insects and other non-target organisms by applying biopesticides selectively and following recommended practices.

5. Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

  • Integration: Use biopesticides as part of an integrated pest management (IPM) strategy, combining them with cultural, mechanical, and biological control methods to enhance overall pest control.
  • Monitoring: Regularly monitor pest populations and crop health to assess the effectiveness of biopesticide applications and adjust strategies as needed.

6. Safety Measures

  • Protective Gear: Wear appropriate protective clothing and equipment during mixing and application to avoid exposure.
  • Storage and Disposal: Store biopesticides in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Dispose of any unused biopesticides and containers according to local regulations.

7. Record Keeping

  • Documentation: Keep detailed records of biopesticide applications, including dates, rates, methods, and observed outcomes. This helps in tracking effectiveness and making informed decisions for future pest management.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively use biopesticides to manage pests while supporting sustainable agriculture and protecting the environment.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of biopesticides?

Biopesticides offer a more eco-friendly alternative to conventional pesticides, but they come with their own set of pros and cons. Here’s a breakdown of the key advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages:

  • Safety: Biopesticides are generally less toxic to humans, beneficial insects, and wildlife compared to synthetic pesticides. This is because they often target specific pests through biological mechanisms rather than relying on broad-spectrum chemical action.
  • Environmental Benefits: Biopesticides typically break down quicker in the environment compared to synthetic pesticides. This reduces the risk of soil and water contamination, minimizing long-term environmental damage.
  • Targeted Effects: Biopesticides can be more specific to certain pests. They may target a particular insect species or disrupt their life cycle in a way that minimizes harm to other organisms in the ecosystem. This is especially crucial for protecting beneficial insects like ladybugs and honeybees, which play vital roles in pollination.
  • Reduced Pest Resistance: A major challenge with conventional pesticides is the development of pest resistance. Since biopesticides work through different mechanisms, pests are less likely to develop resistance to them. This can help to ensure long-term effectiveness in pest management strategies.

Disadvantages:

  • Cost: Biopesticides can sometimes be more expensive than conventional pesticides due to research and development costs and sometimes shorter shelf life.
  • Frequency: They might require more frequent applications for effective pest control, which can increase costs and labor.
  • Storage and Application: Some biopesticides require specific storage conditions (e.g., cool temperatures) or application techniques (e.g., live microorganisms need to be applied at specific times) for optimal effectiveness. This can add complexity to their use.
  • Limited Availability: Biopesticides may not be as widely available as conventional pesticides, especially in certain regions.

Overall:

Biopesticides offer a significant step towards more sustainable pest management practices. However, it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages when choosing a pest control solution. Consider the specific pest problem, your budget, and your comfort level with application techniques.

What are fungal biopesticides?

Fungal biopesticides are a specific type of biopesticide that utilizes fungi to combat plant diseases and, in some cases, even insect pests. They are becoming an increasingly popular choice for eco-friendly pest control due to their effectiveness and safety profile.

How Fungal Biopesticides Work:

There are two main ways fungal biopesticides control pests:

  • Parasitism: Certain beneficial fungi, like Trichoderma harzianum, act as natural predators towards other fungi that cause plant diseases. These beneficial fungi attack and colonize the harmful fungi, ultimately killing them and preventing them from spreading disease.
  • Antibiosis: Fungal biopesticides can also produce antibiotic compounds that inhibit the growth or kill targeted pests. These antibiotics can be specific to certain fungi or may have a broader effect on various pathogens.

Benefits of Fungal Biopesticides:

  • Targeted Control: Fungi can be very specific in their attack, targeting harmful fungi while leaving beneficial organisms like mycorrhizal fungi unharmed.
  • Long-lasting Effect: Some beneficial fungi can establish themselves in the soil, providing ongoing protection against fungal diseases.
  • Safety: Fungal biopesticides are generally considered safe for humans, beneficial insects, and wildlife because they are naturally occurring organisms.
  • Environmental Friendliness: These biopesticides break down naturally in the environment, minimizing the risk of pollution.

Examples of Fungal Biopesticides:

  • Trichoderma harzianum: This is a widely used biopesticide fungus that effectively controls a variety of soilborne fungal diseases like damping-off and root rot.
  • Beauveria bassiana: This fungus can target a variety of insect pests, including beetles, whiteflies, and aphids. It works by infecting the insect and causing internal growth, ultimately leading to the pest’s death.

Applications of Fungal Biopesticides:

Fungal biopesticides are used in a variety of settings, including:

  • Agriculture: They are applied to protect crops like fruits, vegetables, and grains from fungal diseases.
  • Horticulture: These biopesticides can be used in greenhouses and gardens to control fungal diseases in ornamental plants.
  • Lawn Care: Fungal biopesticides can help manage fungal diseases in lawns and turfgrass.

What are the applications of biopesticides?

Biopesticides offer a valuable alternative to conventional pesticides across various settings. Here’s a breakdown of their key applications:

Agriculture:

  • Pest Control in Crops: Biopesticides are used to control a wide range of insect pests, fungal diseases, and weeds in various agricultural crops.
    • Insect Pests: Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a popular biopesticide for controlling caterpillars and other insect pests on crops like corn, cotton, and vegetables.
    • Fungal Diseases: Fungal biopesticides based on Trichoderma harzianum and other beneficial fungi help manage diseases like damping-off and root rot in various crops.
    • Weeds: Bioherbicides derived from natural materials can be used to suppress weed growth in agricultural fields.

Horticulture:

  • Pest Control in Ornamental Plants: Biopesticides are well-suited for protecting ornamental plants, flowers, and gardens from pests and diseases.
    • Insect Pests: Neem oil and insecticidal soaps derived from natural ingredients can be used to control aphids, mites, and other insect pests on ornamental plants.
    • Fungal Diseases: Fungal biopesticides can be applied to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis blight in greenhouses and gardens.

Urban Pest Management:

  • Pest Control in Homes and Gardens: Biopesticides can be a safer option for homeowners to manage pests in their houses, gardens, and surrounding areas.
    • Indoor Pests: Certain biopesticides can be used to control cockroaches, ants, and other indoor pests. However, professional pest control may be necessary for severe infestations.
    • Outdoor Pests: Biopesticides can be helpful in managing mosquitoes, ticks, and other outdoor pests around homes and gardens.

Other Applications:

  • Post-harvest Storage: Biopesticides can be applied to protect stored grains and other agricultural products from insect pests and fungal spoilage.
  • Organic Farming: Biopesticides are essential tools for organic farmers who cannot use synthetic pesticides to control pests and diseases.

Choosing the Right Biopesticide:

The specific application of a biopesticide will depend on the target pest or disease, the type of crop or plant being protected, and the regulatory framework in your region. Always consult with experts or agricultural extension services to choose the most effective and appropriate biopesticide for your needs.

Benefits of Biopesticides in these Applications:

  • Reduced Risk to Humans and Wildlife: Compared to conventional pesticides, biopesticides are generally less toxic to humans, beneficial insects, and wildlife. This makes them a safer choice for pest control in residential areas and around food crops.
  • Environmental Sustainability: Biopesticides often break down more quickly in the environment, minimizing the risk of soil and water contamination. This is crucial for protecting ecosystems and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.
  • Reduced Pest Resistance: Since biopesticides work through different mechanisms than conventional pesticides, pests are less likely to develop resistance to them. This ensures long-term effectiveness in pest management strategies.

By utilizing biopesticides in various applications, we can move towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to pest control while safeguarding human health and the environment.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related News