Question

The majority of baculoviruses are used as biological control agents because:

• A. These are excellent candidates for species-specific applications
• B. They have no negative impact on non-target plants and animals
• C. Beneficial insects are being conserved
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is D All of the above

All statements are correct. The majority of baculoviruses used as biological control agents are in the genus Nucleopolyhedrovirus. These viruses are excellent candidates for species-specific, narrow spectrum insecticidal applications. They have been shown to have no negative impacts on plants, mammals, birds, fish, or even on non-target insects. This is especially desirable when beneficial insects are being conserved to aid in an overall IPM program.