Biopesticides in Sustainable Agriculture: Enhancing Targeted Pest Control and Ecosystem Health

Ayesha Areej¹, Muhammad Usama¹, Umer Zulfiqar¹, Fatima Sarwar¹, Maryam¹, Aneela Ashiq ¹*

This review discusses the biopesticides’ potential in sustainable agriculture, offering targeted pest control, preserving ecosystems, and reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals.

Abstract

The growing demand for environmentally sustainable agriculture has increased the adoption of biopesticides in Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Derived from microorganisms, plants, or biological materials, biopesticides provide a safer, eco-friendly alternative to synthetic pesticides by targeting specific pests without harming non-target species. This review explores the efficacy and role of biopesticides in promoting sustainable agricultural practices. A selection of biopesticides, including Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), neem extract, and insect growth regulators, is reviewed for their preparation and application. Field trials using randomized complete block designs with treatment and control plots are examined to evaluate the impact on pest populations, crop health, and yield. Microbial, biochemical, and plant-based biopesticides demonstrates effective pest population reductions. Microbial biopesticides like Bt exhibits high specificity, preserving beneficial organisms. Biochemical agents, including neem, disrupted pest cycles through non-lethal mechanisms. Combined treatments enhanced pest control and delayed resistance, further supporting their role in IPM. Biopesticides offer a promising alternative in IPM, contributing to improved soil health and reduced chemical pesticide reliance. Despite economic and environmental challenges, ongoing advances in biotechnology are expected to enhance their efficacy and adoption. Integrating biopesticides with biofertilizers provides a holistic approach to sustainable agriculture, promoting ecosystem balance and long-term agricultural resilience.

Keywords: Biopesticides, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Sustainable agriculture, Microbial pesticides, Eco-friendly pest control.

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