Biological control and plant health in the UK¹

Abstract

The protected crop environment has long been recognized as offering particularly good opportunities for the application of biological control and this is reflected in the predominance of integrated pest management programmes and the wide range of biological control agents available. The introduction of new pest species of quarantine concern can often occur in glasshouse crops, as a result of international trade in plant material, and can have a highly disruptive impact upon well established, integrated pest management programmes. The use of biological control agents against quarantine pests is discussed, including both the use of exotic species and those established in the UK. The relevant legislation in the UK is outlined in relation to the introduction of non‐native species, including both plant protection and conservation interests. Environmental safety aspects such as the impact of such introductions on non‐target species and issues of quality control to prevent the introduction of contaminants are noted as of particular plant health interest.

Novel strategies for assessing and managing the risks posed by invasive alien species to global crop production and biodiversity

“…solarisation, UV-absorbent fi lms, fl aming and physical barriers (Vincent et al, 2003), are increasingly being used, chemical pesticides and crop destruction are likely to remain the preferred option for eradication. Biopesticides and, particularly, biological control agents are less likely to drive populations to extinction and are more appropriate for use in containment and control (Hoddle, 2004), although inundation techniques have been applied successfully (Cheek, 1997). While the future of genetic modifi ed crops is uncertain, where authorised, they may have an important role to play in containment and eradication.…”

Safe use of invertebrate macro‐organisms for biological control in the EPPO region

“…Three examples of EPPO member countries will illustrate the diversity of the regulatory systems in place for macro-organisms. In the UK, no single item of legislation covers the import and release of macro-biological control agents (Cheek, 1997). Legislation of major relevance is the Wildlife and Countryside Act, administered by the Department of the Environment, the Control of Plant Protection Product Regulations and the Plant Health Order, both administered by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF).…”