The Potential Use of Weeds in the Manipulation of Beneficial Insects1

Abstract

Abstract Certain weed species play an important role in the biology of many beneficial insects. Relevant examples from the literature show that many weeds contribute to the population regulation of various insect pests of crucifer crops, beans and orchards. These examples emphasize the potential of weeds for implementing pest management systems. Although there is enough information concerning weed manipulation methods, there is a need for more formal research on how to encourage the presence of beneficial weeds in crop fields for the purpose of increasing entomophagous insect populations. Demonstration of improved biological control in weed diversified cropping systems represents the initial step toward improved pest management systems based on ecological principles.