Biopesticides and biological controls are pest and disease controls for plant protection based on living organisms and naturally-sourced compounds.
They are categorised as microbials, semiochemicals, natural substances and macrobials.
- The microbials contain bacteria, fungi, viruses and other microorganisms that have the capacity to kill pests or outcompete and prevent diseases.
- Semiochemicals are message-bearing compounds produced by an animal or plant that can be used to change and disrupt a pest’s normal behaviour.
- Natural substances obtained from plants, minerals and animals can have antimicrobial, insecticidal or pest repellent activity.
- Macrobials contain insects and mites that when released will parasitize and feed on pests.
All can be used to disrupt, deter or kill pests and diseases attacking plants.
