Microbes in Biocontrol:

• Biocontrol uses biological methods for plant disease and pest control.
• Chemical methods (insecticides, pesticides) pose environmental and health risks.

Organic Farming Approach:

• Organic farming prioritizes biodiversity and natural predation.
• Focuses on maintaining a balance in pest populations within a vibrant ecosystem.

Holistic Biocontrol Measures:

• Aims to reduce reliance on toxic chemicals and pesticides.
• Understanding interactions between organisms for effective biocontrol.

Examples of Biocontrol Agents:

• Ladybird and Dragonflies control aphids and mosquitoes.
• Bacteria Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) introduced for caterpillar control.

Genetic Engineering in Biocontrol:

• Bt toxin genes incorporated into plants for pest resistance (e.g., Bt-cotton).
• Genetic engineering advancements enhance biocontrol strategies.

Fungal Biocontrol Agent:

• Fungus Trichoderma used for treating plant diseases.
• Common in root ecosystems, effective against various plant pathogens.

Viral Biocontrol Agent:

• Baculoviruses, especially Nucleopolyhedrovirus, target insects and arthropods.
• Species-specific with minimal impact on non-target organisms.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM):

• Conserves beneficial insects in overall pest management.
• Suitable for ecologically sensitive areas.