What are the disadvantages of biological pest control?
• It takes more intensive management and planning. • It can take more time; • It requires more record keeping, more patience, and sometimes more education or training. • Successful use of biological control requires a greater understanding of the biology of both the pest and its enemies. Many natural enemies are very susceptible to pesticides, and using them successfully in an IPM program takes great care. • In some cases, biological control may be more costly than pesticides. • Often, the results of using biological control are not as dramatic or quick as the results of pesticides use. Most natural enemies attack only specific types of insects-unlike broad-spectrum insecticides, which may kill a wide range of insects. Though often an advantage, this can also be a disadvantage. Three main approaches to biological control: Biological control uses naturally occurring predators, parasites and diseases to control pests. There are three main ways to use these natural enemies against unwante
