What ecological role do biological control agents like fungi play in pest management?

Biological control agents, such as fungi, play a crucial role in pest management by serving as natural predators or pathogens of pests. This approach leverages the natural ecological interactions that occur in ecosystems, where specific fungi can target and infect pest organisms. For instance, certain fungi can penetrate the bodies of insects, leading to their eventual death, thereby reducing pest populations in a given area.

By utilizing these biological control agents, pest management becomes more sustainable, minimizing the reliance on synthetic pesticides which may have harmful environmental impacts. This natural form of pest control helps maintain a balanced ecosystem, promoting higher biodiversity and healthier plant growth without the negative side effects often associated with chemical treatments. Overall, the use of fungi and other biological agents supports integrated pest management strategies that align with ecological principles, contributing to effective pest control.