This volume summarises current developments in integrated pest management (IPM), focussing on insect pests. Chapters discuss advances in understanding species and landscape ecology on which IPM is founded. The book then reviews advances in cultural, physical and, in particular, biological methods of control. Topics include developments in classical, conservation and augmentative biological control as well as the use of entomopathogenic fungi, viruses, nematodes and semiochemicals. The final parts of the book summarise current research on monitoring pesticide use as well as emerging classes of biopesticides.

Since the early days of integrated pest management a sound ecological foundation has been considered essential for the development of effective systems. From time to time, there have been attempts to evaluate the ways in which ecological theory is exploited in pest control, and to review the lessons that ecologists learn from pest management. In the last 20 years there have been many developments within the contribution of ecological theory to integrated pest management. This book captures some of the new themes in both pest management and ecology that have emerged and provides an updated assessment of the role that basic ecology plays in the development of rational and sustainable pest management practices. Major themes are examined, assessing the significance and potential impact of recent technological and conceptual developments for the future of integrated pest management.