Trichoderma as biocontrol agent against pests: New uses for a mycoparasite

Insects are the main pest in agricultural systems, causing significant losses crop productivity and storage. During last decades control of insects has been carried out through uncontrolled massive use chemical insecticides, very harmful to environment health, which requires development new efficient safe alternatives. Numerous fungal species have described as entomopathogens insect pests, well plant endophytic fungi. In this sense, Trichoderma is a genus filamentous fungi widely studied used biocontrol agent agriculture on pathogenic due its ability parasitize them (mycoparasitism), among other mechanisms action. recent years, possibility using for considered, both directly indirectly. The studies date reported that capable controlling parasitism production insecticidal secondary metabolites, antifeedant compounds repellent metabolites. And indirectly activation systemic defensive responses, attraction natural enemies or insect-symbiotic microorganisms. Therefore, not only effective against pathogens, but also representing future alternative sustainable agriculture.