Biopesticides (BP) are naturally occurring or biological substances used to control agricultural pests, diseases, and weeds. Unlike synthetic chemical pesticides, they are usually target-specific, environmentally friendly, and pose minimal risk to humans and non-target wildlife.
The 3 Main Classes of Biopesticides
- Microbial Pesticides: Utilize living microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, or viruses) to infect and kill specific pests.
- Example: Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a soil bacterium that produces proteins toxic only to specific insect larvae when ingested.
- Biochemical Pesticides: Naturally occurring substances—such as insect sex pheromones, scented plant extracts, and essential oils (e.g., Neem oil)—that disrupt mating or act as repellents and growth regulators.
- Plant-Incorporated Protectants (PIPs): Genetically modified crops engineered to produce their own pest-killing substances (such as integrating the Bt gene directly into the plant's DNA).
Advantages & Trade-Offs
- Pros: They biodegrade rapidly (reducing residue), limit the development of pest resistance, and are safer for farmworkers and pollinators.
- Cons: They require more precise application timing, act slower than synthetic chemicals, and sometimes require specific storage conditions to remain viable.
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