Surendra Dara
University of California Cooperative Extension
USA
Title: Entomopathogenic fungi as holistic tools in crop production and protection
Biography
Biography: Surendra Dara
Abstract
Entomopathogenic fungi such as Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium brunneum and Isaria fumosorosea are traditionally used in crop protection to manage arthropod pests. However, recent studies show that their interaction with plants as mycorrhizae and endophytes allows them to play a bigger role in crop production. Improved plant growth, plant health, biomass and protection from plant diseases are additional contributions of entomopathogenic fungi. Entomopathogenic fungi might also help with conservation of nutrients and moisture through improved absorption. Understanding the plant-entomopathogen-arthropod interactions and exploring their potential for overall plant health contributes to sustainable pest management.
