Application of Natural Enemies and Parasitoids in Agricultural Pest Biocontrol

Dear Colleagues,

Integrated pest management (IPM), which emphasizes the integration of multiple control measures, has been widely used in pest management. The production and application of natural enemies is an indispensable component of the IPM strategy. So far, many beneficial insects and predatory mites have been successfully used in biological control practices, aiming to reduce the reliance on chemical pesticides and promote sustainability and environmental health.

In recent years, the invasion of alien species occurred frequently because of rapid globalization, and secondary pests thrived due to altered conditions such as available food, moisture, shelter, or disrupted ecosystems. In China, the outbreak of several insect pests, such as Solenopsis invicta, Spodoptera frugiperda, Tuta absoluta, and Megalurothrips, has caused great concern for the Chinese government and farmers. It is urgent to explore and apply natural enemies for the biological control of these newly emerged pests worldwide.

This Special Issue will evaluate the potential of natural predators and parasitoids to control arthropod pests in laboratory and field conditions, rearing natural enemies with artificial diets and natural prey before releasing and colonizing them in the field. We welcome the submission of studies relevant to the conditions for preparation, initiation, maintenance, and the termination of diapause in natural enemy insects. Manuscripts related to molecular and physiological aspects will not be considered for publication.

Dr. Jianjun Mao
Dr. Liangde Tang
Guest Editors

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