What is Biological Control?

What is biocontrol?

Biological control (biocontrol) is an environmentally sound method of controlling or suppressing pests and diseases using their naturally-occurring enemies or biological antagonists. These living organisms may be predators (predatory mites, ladybirds etc), parasitoids (wasps etc) or microbes (fungi, bacteria or viruses).  Biological control is an important component of integrated pest management (IPM) programs. Biocontrol products are usually referred to as biofungicides or bioinsecticides, depending on the target organism.

What are bioinoculants and biofertilizers?

These terms are generally used interchangeably to refer to products containing beneficial bacteria, fungi and other natural substances that can be added to the soil to improve or maintain the growth of plants or the productivity of the soil. These are often naturally-occurring organisms and compounds that have been depleted from the soil as a result of modern farming practices. Biofertilizers and bioinoculants perform a broad range of functions, including the fixation of nutrients, protection from pathogens, production of bioactive compounds. The microorganisms in these products often colonize the plant’s roots and promote growth by increasing the supply or availability of nutrients to the host plant.

WHY CHOOSE BIOLOGICAL PRODUCTS?

  • Natural
  • Environmentally Friendly
  • Benefits crop quality
  • Useful as a stand alone solution or as part of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programme
  • No chemical residues or withholding periods
  • Non-toxic and safe for workers and consumers
  • Minimal effect on non-target organisms

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