Gesunde Pflanzen (2004) 56, 151-156

Olaf Zimmermann (2004)
Die Anwendung von Nützlingen im biologischen Pflanzenschutz in Deutschland - Aktuelle Anmerkungen
[The use of beneficials for biological control in Germany - Notes on the present status]
Gesunde Pflanzen 56 (6), 151-156
Abstract: The use of beneficial arthropods and entomopathogenous nematodes has steadily increased in recent years. Biological plant protection with beneficials has now been practised in Germany for several decades. Trichogramma-parasitoids have been used for more than 25 years against the European Corn Borer in the field. The use of beneficials in greenhouses started in the early 1970ies. Since the 1980ies beneficial arthropods are produced and supplied by German companies.
Out of the about 60 species of beneficials being used, more than 50% are indigenous species. The exotic species supplied by German companies can only survive under greenhouse conditions and pose, therefore, no threat to local ecosystems. In some greenhouse cultures, such as vegetables, it is possible to rely almost exclusively on beneficials, e. g. in tomato and cucumber. In other cultures, like ornamentals, integrated control is necessary, using benign chemicals which preserve beneficials. Especially imidacloprid and related systemic active substances show strong side effects towards beneficials.
Biological control of storage pests with beneficials has been successfully practised in Germany for the last 6 years. Biological control strategies, ranging from cereal storage to households, allow to produce safe and consumer-friendly food.
The Association of German Suppliers of Beneficials (VND e. V.) was established in 2001 and represents the common interests of the member companies. An internet web page by the Association will provide information for the general public and point out the possibilities of biological control with beneficial organisms.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
(original language: German)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Olaf Zimmermann

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
biocontrol - natural enemies
Research topic(s) for beneficials or antagonists:
review

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
Trichogramma (genus - parasitoids)