Enhancing biological control: conservation of alternative hosts of natural enemies

Abstract Background There is a consensus that the conservation of natural enemies most important biological control strategy, but it has also been least attended. The reason simple: there strong contradiction between modern agriculture and control. Various strategies have proposed for enemies, among others, protection against pesticides establishment nectar plants as alternative food. Less attention paid to hosts enemies. Main body Natural are not exclusive pests, on contrary, numerous species require prey their prevalence. Their strategy widely referenced in scientific literature; however, this idea consistent with studies developed. From 1973 2021, only 21 emphasized use were recorded. Most focused single phytophagous–natural enemy species, little was given plant–phytophagous relationship. For example, Asclepias curassavica (Apocynaceae) more than nine specialist phytophagous; they, turn, attracted 24 Although different demonstrate potential hosts, some presume an adverse or doubtful effect pest control; additional vegetation agroecosystems could act source, sink This analysis tries fit agricultural paradigm, other way around, suggested by ecological theory. We support should be directed toward multiple aim controlling pest, self-regulation agroecosystem. path followed study application discussed. Conclusion wide diversity non-pest insect suggests enormous exploitation hosts. evaluation host specialized phytophagous improve reduce risk pests crops. would partly fill huge gap exists terms diversity.