Next-Generation Biological Control: Integrating Innovation and Ecology for Sustainable Crop Protection

The field of sustainable agriculture is undergoing a transformative shift as the demand for eco-friendly pest management solutions grows. Traditionally dependent on mechanical and chemical methods, the transition towards biological control represents a significant advancement as researchers leverage microbial technologies, omics tools, and precision agriculture. These innovations enable targeted, eco-friendly pest management that works in harmony with nature. Existing ecological systems' resilience is strengthened, aiding in biodiversity preservation and reducing the environmental impact on human health. Increasing concerns over pesticide overuse and resistance have brought nature-based solutions to the forefront. Current studies indicate that beneficial organisms, like bacteria, fungi, baculoviruses, nematodes, and arthropods, don't just battle pests; they play a vital role in maintaining plant health. However, there remain challenges such as reliable biocontrol delivery systems and ensuring field performance consistency. Continued research is essential to expand these green solutions, focusing on developing more effective microbial consortia and sustainable agricultural strategies.

This Research Topic aims to delve into the intersection of cutting-edge technology with biology and ecology to form sustainable pest management solutions. It seeks to illuminate advancements that enhance the effectiveness of modern biological control methods, mitigating synthetic pesticide dependency and achieving harmony with ecological systems. By examining the tools of microbial consortia, omics initiatives, and precision agriculture through interdisciplinary research, this topic will offer comprehensive insights. Emerging from this exploration will be field-ready, practical solutions capable of fostering resilient agricultural systems, enhancing biodiversity, and safeguarding both human and environmental health. Ultimately, the research will investigate the economic viability and global food security implications in light of climate emergencies and ecological degradation.

To gather further insights in the integration and application of these advanced technologies within biological control strategies, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Development and optimization of microbial consortia and next-gen bioformulations

• Genomic and systems biology approaches for improved pest management

• Precision agricultural tools for smart biocontrol applications

• Ecological engineering strategies that enhance natural enemy efficacy

• Advances in the mass production and release mechanisms of biocontrol agents

• Sustainable strategies for managing resistance and enhancing biocontrol efficacy

• Soil and plant microbiome's role in pest management and plant health

• Economic, regulatory, and adoption challenges in the deployment of new biocontrol methods

We invite original research articles, comprehensive reviews, and case studies that push forward the frontier of next-generation biological control.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Review
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Control Strategies, Ecological Control, Microbial Biopesticides, Eco-friendly Pest Management, Sustainable Agriculture

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.