[Fungal bio-control agents against ixodid tick--a review]

Abstract

Entomopathogenic fungi as potential agents for bio-control have been widely applied in the control of insect pests in agriculture. However, the application remains in laboratory scale for the control of ectoparasites. Owing to the need to combat the short lasting period of chemical acaricides and reduction of pollution, it is urgent to develop sufficient, stable and safe measures for tick control. We reviewed the primary scientific achievements in utilization of environmental microbes for controlling of ticks. Studies conducted in this field may benefit to sustainable development, environmental protection, maintaining ecological balance and production of green products.