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Selection of a Microbial Pest Control Agent

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A Roadmap to the Successful Development and Commercialization of Microbial Pest Control Products for Control of Arthropods

Part of the book series: Progress in Biological Control ((PIBC,volume 10))

Abstract

From a comparison between academic research and industrial research with regard to the finding and the development of a microbial pest control agent, it is concluded that there is a need for well-defined selection criteria and a complete process description for the entire development of a microbial pest control product. This chapter discusses the exploratory phase of finding a new microbial pest control agent, and the actual screening phase of species and strains of collected insect pathogens, potentially bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa, and entomopathogenic nematodes. Three decisive selection criteria are identified for a commercial microbial insecticide: mortality, production efficiency, and safety. Relevant factors in the screening process related to mortality are dose rate, mode of action, speed of kill, host range, sensitivity to abiotic factors, and persistence. Second, the possibility of mass production with high yields is a critical criterion. Third, safety to humans and to the environment is a selection criterion in relation to registration requirements and expenses. Crucial characteristics of each type of pathogen relevant to their utility as crop protection product are noted. Testing methods will be critically reviewed and recommendations for standardization of methods and test conditions will be presented. The consecutive steps in the screening process will be listed with emphasis on economic considerations. The best strain for further development is the one that provides a well-balanced compromise between efficacy and economics.

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  1. R & D Manager Microbials Department, Koppert Biological Systems, Populierzoom 1, 2719 HL, Zoetermeer, The Netherlands

    Dr. Willem J. Ravensberg

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Ravensberg, W.J. (2011). Selection of a Microbial Pest Control Agent. In: A Roadmap to the Successful Development and Commercialization of Microbial Pest Control Products for Control of Arthropods. Progress in Biological Control, vol 10. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-0437-4_2

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