Introducing the term 'Biocontrol Plants' for integrated pest management

Abstract

Studies of interactions between crops, additional plants, pests and benefi cial organisms already exist as well as studies of natural enemy preference, dispersal, and abundance.However, these studies focus on tri-trophic interactions from an "arthropod" point of view. We think that in order to optimize crop protection methods we need to understand the effects that plant structures have on the various arthropods and on subsequent tri-trophic interactions.Although studies and reviews describing the role of secondary plants in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) exist, to date a general term which encompasses all plants added to a cropping system with the aim of enhancing IPM strategies has yet to be formulated. Therefore, we suggest a new term, "biocontrol plants", which we defi ne as plants that are intentionally added to a crop system with the aim of enhancing crop productivity through pest attraction and/or pest regulation; a term that will promote the use of biocontrol services, and can ultimately lead to an increase in the sustainability of cropping systems.

Use of costic acid, a natural extract from Dittrichia viscosa, for the control of Varroa destructor, a parasite of the European honey bee

“…The first study on the structure and the absolute configuration of the compound is from a report on the isolation of the acidic fraction of costus root oil [39]. The plant extracts exhibit a spectrum of biological activities [46]. D. viscosa extracts exhibited abortifacient, anti-implantational and luteolytic effects on rats [47].…”

Farmer rationality and the adoption of greening practices in Poland

“…These farmers treat EFA as an expensive element of reforms which may contribute to lower economic performance as farm revenues will decrease. Interestingly, the improvement in environment condition may be of vital importance to farmers (Parolin et al, 2013). Kvakkestad et al (2015) shows that for Norwegian farmers the maintenance of cultural and traditional values as well as keeping the land in good condition is extremely important.…”

Using Calendula officinalis as a floral resource to enhance aphid and thrips suppression by the flower bug Orius sauteri (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae)

“…Previous studies have indicated that the release of predatory or parasitic insects accompanied with the introduction of specific resource plants is one of the most effective ways for enhancing the effectiveness of biological control in agroecosystems . These plants are classified by their function in habitat management into categories such as honey plants (floral plants), habitat plants, banker plants, trap plants, etc., especially for Orius spp …”