HOR 125 Biological Control Agents

Lecture Hours: 1
Lab Hours: 3
Credits: 2

Focuses on the concepts of biological control in natural and managed systems using natural enemies to reduce pest densities as well as current applications within the horticulture industry to create an ecological and integrated approach to pest management. Creates a solid understanding of biological control to prepare students to develop effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs that reduce chemical usage.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Define biological control.
Identify the role of biological control in an IPM program.
Know the different types of biological control agents.
Identify the ways biological control is used for pest management.
Understand current applications of biological control to manage pests.

Content Outline

Definitions and history of biological control
- Need for biological control
- Biocontrol in natural systems
- Biological control for indoor production
- Biological control for outdoor production
Types of biological control agents
- Predators
- Parasites
- Herbivores
- Antibiosis
- Competitors
Approaches to biological control
- Importation (classical biological control)
- Augmentation
  - Laboratory-reared biological control agents
  - Field-collected biological control agents
- Conservation and enhancement
  - Landscape ecology and conservation of natural enemies
Current applications of biological control
- Commercially available biocontrol options
- Microbial pesticides
- Modern approaches to augmentation of natural enemies
Designing a biological control program
Monitoring and evaluation of natural enemies
Interactions of pesticides and biological control programs
Examine current regulations and laws pertaining to biocontrol agents