Biological Control Solutions Ontario, Ontario, Canada
Biological control is widely used in IPM programs to control pests in greenhouse ornamental crops in Ontario, Canada. Commonly used components of biocontrol in greenhouses are the entomopathogens Beauveria bassiana and nematodes (primarily Steinernema feltiae). Thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis, Thrips tabaci, and Echinothrips americanus) are the primary target for many IPM programs. Although entomopathogens play an important role in biocontrol in Ontario, there is still much uncertainty in the grower community about their efficacy and more importantly, how to measure their impact on the target pest(s). This presentation discusses the use of entomopathogens in Ontario and the challenges faced in advising growers and explaining the benefits of their use.
