Entomopathogenic Fungi and the Environment: Biopesticides, Characterization, Application and Strategy for the Microbial Control

Entomopathogenic Fungi and the Environment: Biopesticides, Characterization, Application and Strategy for the Microbial Control is a scholarly and interdisciplinary volume that examines the ecological, biological, molecular, and applied importance of entomopathogenic fungi in contemporary pest management and environmental biotechnology. The book provides a detailed account of the host range, identification, environmental distribution, evolutionary background, and functional mechanisms of fungal entomopathogens. It also discusses their role as biopesticides, microbial control agents, and sustainable alternatives to conventional chemical pesticides. The volume engages with significant areas such as endophytic fungal activity, fungal interactions with pesticides, acaricides, herbicides and phyto-pesticides, insect resistance mechanisms, insect immune responses, and the use of entomopathogenic fungi in resistance-management strategies. It further explores recent developments in fungal genomics, molecular dynamics, host specificity, spore adhesion, genetic enhancement of fungal virulence, and fungal-mediated synthesis of metal nanoparticles. With special attention to eco-friendly pest control, nano-formulations, biopesticide development, and environmental safety, this book is useful for students, researchers, academicians, agricultural scientists, biotechnologists, microbiologists, environmental scientists, and professionals working in plant protection, biological control, and integrated pest management.