Biopesticides Handbook

This edition of the book explores the benefits and applications of biopesticides, including new chapters on RNAi pesticides, insect growth regulators, and allelochemicals, and their use in food and medicinal crops.

Format: Hardback
Length: 316 pages
Publication date: 13 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This extensively revised edition delves into the multifaceted realm of biopesticides, encompassing not only their numerous advantages but also exploring every facet of their usage. It includes comprehensive new chapters on the applications of biochemical and microbial pesticides, as well as plant-incorporated protectants. Furthermore, the book delves into the emerging field of RNAi pesticides, offering valuable insights into their potential benefits. Additionally, it provides comprehensive information on insect growth regulators and allelochemicals, shedding light on their role in pest management. Moreover, a brand-new chapter is dedicated to exploring the uses of biopesticides in food and medicinal crops, highlighting their significance in sustainable agriculture and human health. By presenting a comprehensive and up-to-date account of biopesticides, this edition serves as a valuable resource for researchers, professionals, and enthusiasts alike, aiding in their understanding and implementation of these environmentally friendly pest control strategies.

Introduction:
Biopesticides, derived from natural sources such as plants, bacteria, and fungi, have gained increasing popularity in recent years due to their eco-friendly nature, reduced environmental impact, and potential for reducing pesticide residues in food and crops. In this extensively revised edition, we aim to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date exploration of the benefits, applications, and emerging trends of biopesticides.
Benefits of Biopesticides:
One of the primary benefits of biopesticides is their selective nature. Unlike conventional pesticides, which often target a wide range of pests, biopesticides are designed to target specific pests or pest groups, minimizing the risk of harm to beneficial organisms and the environment. This selective approach reduces the potential for pesticide resistance, which can be a significant problem with conventional pesticides.
Another advantage of biopesticides is their reduced toxicity to humans and the environment. Biopesticides are generally less harmful to non-target organisms, such as beneficial insects, birds, and mammals, compared to conventional pesticides. They also have a lower risk of causing adverse effects on human health, making them safer for farmers, consumers, and the surrounding ecosystem.
Biopesticides are also environmentally friendly. They often have a lower impact on soil and water quality compared to conventional pesticides, as they are biodegradable and do not persist in the environment for long periods. This reduces the risk of soil erosion, water pollution, and the buildup of harmful chemicals in the food chain.
In addition to their selective nature, reduced toxicity, and environmental friendliness, biopesticides offer several other benefits. They can be used as an alternative to chemical pesticides, reducing the need for synthetic chemicals in agriculture. They can also be integrated into integrated pest management (IPM) programs, which combine multiple pest control methods to reduce the overall use of pesticides and minimize their environmental impact.
Applications of Biopesticides:
Biopesticides find applications in a wide range of agricultural and non-agricultural settings. In agriculture, they are used to control pests that can damage crops, such as insects, mites, fungi, and nematodes. Biopesticides can be applied in various ways, including soil application, foliar application, and seed treatment. They can also be used in combination with other pest control methods, such as mechanical control, cultural control, and biological control, to achieve optimal pest management outcomes.
In non-agricultural settings, biopesticides are used to control pests that can harm buildings, public health, and the environment. They are commonly used in pest control programs in homes, schools, hospitals, and other commercial buildings. Biopesticides can be applied in various ways, including aerosol application, fogging, and surface application.
In addition to their applications in agriculture and non-agricultural settings, biopesticides are also used in the food and beverage industry. They are used to control pests that can contaminate food and beverages, such as insects, rodents, and fungi. Biopesticides can be used in various stages of the food production process, including pre-harvest, post-harvest, and processing.
Emerging Trends in Biopesticides:
One of the emerging trends in biopesticides is the use of RNAi (RNA interference) technology. RNAi is a powerful tool that allows scientists to manipulate the expression of genes in pests, leading to their destruction or reduction in population. RNAi pesticides have shown promising results in controlling pests that are difficult to control with conventional pesticides, such as aphids, caterpillars, and mites.
Another emerging trend in biopesticides is the use of plant-incorporated protectants (PIPs). PIPs are natural compounds that are incorporated into plants to protect them from pests and diseases. They are effective in controlling pests that feed on plants, such as insects, mites, and fungi. PIPs can be used in combination with other pest control methods, such as chemical pesticides, to enhance their effectiveness.
In conclusion, this extensively revised edition provides a comprehensive and up-to-date exploration of the benefits, applications, and emerging trends of biopesticides. Biopesticides offer numerous advantages, including their selective nature, reduced toxicity, and environmental friendliness. They are used in a wide range of agricultural and non-agricultural settings, including agriculture, non-agricultural settings, and the food and beverage industry. With the continued development of new technologies and innovative approaches, biopesticides are likely to play an increasingly important role in pest management in the years to come.

Weight: 775g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032206288
Edition number: 2 ed