DOI: https://doi.org/10.36719/2663-4619/115/301-305
Ravana Rahimova
Baku State University
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-1397-6343
ravana.rahimova08@gmail.com
Entomophages of Olive Pests
Abstract
One of the main factors negatively affecting productivity in agriculture is the spread of harmful organisms. The widespread use of traditional chemical control methods in combating this problem has led to increased attention on alternative approaches due to their adverse effects on ecosystems and human health—especially biological control methods. Biological control methods aim to regulate pest populations using natural enemies such as predatory and parasitic insects, and this approach is considered sustainable and environmentally safe.
Lady beetles (Coccinellidae) play a crucial role in controlling pest insect populations, particularly scale and pseudo-scale insects. Their larval and adult stages possess high predatory ability and can significantly reduce pest numbers under natural conditions. Additionally, representatives of the Chrysopidae family, especially Chrysopa carnea, are considered promising entomophagous agents in biological control due to their effectiveness in feeding on aphids and other pests.
This article analyzes the ecological importance, reproductive dynamics, and biological characteristics of entomophagous species such a s lady beetles and green lacewings, as well as their interactions with pests. The main objective of the study is to evaluate the biological control potential of these organisms and to establish a scientific basis for their effective use in agroecosystems.
Keywords: Biological control, lady beetles (Coccinellidae), green lacewings (Chrysopidae), entomophagous insects, ecological balance, natural enemies, predatory insects