Application of insect–pathogen models to biological control

TL;DRAbstract

The development of insect pathogens as control agents requires a comprehensive understanding of pest–pathogen dynamics if their full potential is to be realized. Aspects of the ecology of both pest and pathogen, however, can be difficult to measure. As a consequence, identification of the key factors that influence the dynamics of the pest–pathogen interaction can be difficult. In this context, mathematical population models can provide useful tools to focus limited research capability on the collection of the most relevant information. Furthermore, adequately validated population models permit the investigation of control options without the need for full field implementation. As such they can prove useful in the development and evaluation of optimum control strategies within an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) framework.

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