Abstract

Crop damage and consequent loss in productivity associated with arthropod pests represent the most serious threats to the world economy. Different methods have been used in the past to control arthropod pests; however, the increase in incidences of resistance to pesticides, food safety concerns, and concerns related to environmental impact associated with the use of chemical pesticides have led to the recent expansion of biological control agents. Entomopathogenic fungi are important and promising bio-control agents for controlling arthropod pests. This review compiles recent information regarding the potential of entomopathogenic fungi used against arthropod pests, traits responsible for mycoinsecticide virulence, and possible ways to enhance the virulence of entomopathogenic fungi, in order to pave the way for the development of bio-rational and eco-friendly arthropod pest management strategies.

Keywords: Arthropod pests, biological control, biopesticides, entomopathogenic fungi, microbial control, mycopathogens.