Makassar, Indonesia, January 20, 2026/BIONE/–A research activity focusing on the laboratory-scale evaluation of entomopathogenic fungi as potential biological control agents for insect pest management was conducted at the Laboratory of Biological Control of Plant Pests and Diseases under controlled conditions. The activity involved three researchers from the Thematic Research Group on Biopesticides and Natural Enemies (TRG BIONE). The study aimed to assess the effectiveness, viability, and pathogenicity of selected fungal isolates prior to further development and field application. This stage represents a critical step in ensuring that the biological agents meet the required standards for use in sustainable agriculture.
The laboratory testing involved a series of bioassays designed to evaluate the ability of the entomopathogenic fungi to infect and control target insect pests. Key parameters observed during the experiment included conidial germination, infection rate, mortality percentage, and the time required to cause pest mortality. These indicators provide essential information on the performance and potential efficacy of the fungi as biopesticides. In addition to efficacy testing, the activity also included the assessment of fungal viability and spore density to ensure consistency in the quality of the biological material. All procedures were conducted using aseptic techniques to prevent contamination and maintain the integrity of the experimental results. The controlled laboratory environment allowed for precise observation and accurate data collection, which are essential for validating the performance of the entomopathogenic agents.
This activity also served as a practical learning platform for students and researchers, who were actively involved in experimental setup, observation, and data recording. Through this hands on experience, participants enhanced their technical skills in microbiology, entomology, and biological pest control, while gaining a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying fungal pathogenicity. Furthermore, the findings from this laboratory evaluation provide a scientific foundation for subsequent stages of research, including formulation development and field trials. By identifying the most effective fungal isolates and understanding their biological characteristics, researchers can optimize their use as environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides. The laboratory evaluation of entomopathogenic fungi plays a vital role in advancing sustainable pest management strategies. This activity demonstrates a systematic and evidence-based approach to developing biopesticides that are not only effective but also safe for the environment, non-target organisms, and human health.
This initiative contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 1 (No Poverty) by promoting sustainable agricultural practices that enhance farmers’ livelihoods, Goal 4 (Quality Education) through hands-on scientific training, Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by supporting the development of biopesticide technologies, and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration among researchers and academic institutions. Furthermore, the activity supports Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and Goal 15 (Life on Land) by advancing environmentally friendly and biodiversity-based pest management approaches.
