Entomovectoring: using pollinators to spread biocontrol agents

Publication date: 19/12/2022
Extent: 26 pages

Contributions by: Jari Temmermans, Ghent University and Antwerp University, Belgium; Marie Legein and Sarah Leeber, Antwerp University, Belgium; and Guy Smagghe, Ghent University, Belgium

Chapter synopsis:

In this chapter, we review the most important factors for successful entomovectoring. Several previous applications of the entomovectoring technology using two commercially used bumblebee species, Bombus terrestris and Bombus impatiens, will be discussed. Finally, we will present a case study focusing on vectoring of bacterial BCAs using bumblebees to combat Botrytis cinerea, the causal agent of gray mold, a commonly feared plant pathogen on strawberry.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2022.0111.23