Natural Enemies: Harnessing Biological Control for Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

Biological control of pests is an essential component of sustainable agricultural practices, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. This chapter explores the history, mechanisms, and effectiveness of biological pest control, emphasizing its role in integrated pest management (IPM). Various natural enemies such as predators, parasitoids, and microbial agents are examined for their ability to regulate pest populations in different agricultural ecosystems. The study also highlights recent advancements, challenges, and future perspectives in the field. Through a qualitative and quantitative assessment of research findings, the chapter underscores the benefits of biological control, including reduced environmental pollution, enhanced biodiversity, and long-term pest suppression. Despite its advantages, biological control faces challenges such as inconsistent efficacy, slow action, and potential non-target effects. The chapter concludes with recommendations for optimizing biological control strategies and integrating them with other sustainable agricultural practices for enhanced effectiveness.