ABSTRACT

It has been well documented that the use of broad-spectrum, persistent chemical insecticides has created several problems such as environmental pollution, pest resurgence, residues in food and water, and development of resistance in insects. There is an urgent need to develop specific and safe alternative pest control methods. Microbial insecticides have many characteristics ideally suited for use in pest management programs. They are usually specific and highly virulent on a given host, pose little hazard to nontarget organisms, and are usually compatible with other management programs.