The search has started. In a reconnaissance project funded by RVO as part of the Combi-track, Normec Groen Agro Control Projecten visited a number of farms to look for pests and their natural enemies. Like any other insect, natural enemies do best in their natural surroundings – or in similar climate conditions. Therefore, Egyptian agriculture could benefit from exploring local potential, next to the current commercially available products.
Grapevine aphid (probably), Vine Mealybug, Parasitized Grapevine aphids (Photo’s by Normec)
Biological Crop Protection:
Biological crop protection is a crucial tool for farmers to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides, overcome the issue of resistance build-up against chemical agents, reduce MRL non-confirmation and meet the growing demand for organically grown vegetables.
The study shows presence of a range of pests and their natural predators and/or parasitic wasps. All natural enemies found during the field survey were endemic to Egypt. Though not for all pests a natural enemy was found, the study shows much potential to further this field.
The engagement with the farms and their staff during the study revealed another aspect: the need for training in the role of natural enemies for pest control. Optimal use of biological control requires the staff to recognize pests and their control agents, while crop management and farm fields need to be re-designed to facilitate healthy populations of natural enemies – like through the use of banker plants or more diverse cropping systems.
Diadegma fenestrale parasitic wasps. Found on potato (Photo’s by Normec)
The organisms found in this study will be further examined for their use as biological control agents. The search will then continue to find more potential agents, develop mass rearing strategies, test and select and finally register, demonstrate and introduce. Along this search, the LAN-team at the embassy and our Dutch network will engage in education programs for fieldworkers and students to educate on the why, how and what of biocontrol agent in the field. Read the full report here.
For more details please contact the agricultural team of the embassy at kai-lvvn@minbuza.nl.