Entomopathogenic Fungi in Insects: From Physiological Effects to Applications

Description:

Fungi are among the most widespread microorganisms in insect habitats. They may serve as mutualistic elements in insect physiology (e.g., in digestion) or they may act as infectant agents, weakening or killing the host. This latter feature may be used for microbial pest control. This book will cover entomopathogenic fungi, as well as the physiological, immunological, and behavioural responses that they illicit in insects. The book will go on to explore the potential uses of these biopesticides against harmful insects such as parasitoids and disease vectors. Finally, it will cover potential harm to non-target insect populations and how these might be mitigated.

Interactions of Entomopathogenic Fungi with Insects: From Physiological Effects to Applications is an interdisciplinary and solution-oriented book that will appeal to academics and professionals who do research or work on the sustainable development of agroecosystems, insect pathology and biocontrol, plant protection, and crop health. Graduate and post-graduate students studying entomology, agriculture, plant science, and ecology, especially those with a focus on sustainability, will also benefit from this work.

* Explores entomopathogenic diversity and how it can be utilised for insect pest control in agroecosystems

* Provides the latest findings on insect immune and behavioural responses towards entomopathogenic fungi

* Highlights the potential effects of entomopathogenic fungi on non-target species, including beneficial insects