Molecular Entomology 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 179-191 http://emtoscipublisher.com/index.php/me 189 are essential for supporting this growth. By investing in research, improving farmer education, and aligning regulatory frameworks, the global adoption of biopesticides in IPM can be accelerated, contributing to more sustainable agricultural practices worldwide (Zhou and Wang, 2024). 7 Concluding Remarks This study highlights the growing importance of biopesticides in the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) of maize. Biopesticides, including microbial agents like Bacillus thuringiensis and botanical products such as neem, have demonstrated effectiveness in controlling key pests like the fall armyworm. These natural pest control agents offer a safer alternative to chemical pesticides by reducing environmental contamination and limiting non-target organism impacts. Case studies show that biopesticides are not only effective in reducing pest populations but are also economically viable and environmentally friendly solutions for sustainable agriculture. Biopesticides play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable agriculture by reducing the environmental damage associated with synthetic pesticides. Unlike conventional pesticides, biopesticides target specific pests and decompose quickly, minimizing their impact on soil, water, and biodiversity. The use of biopesticides aligns with global sustainability goals, particularly in improving food security while mitigating climate change and pollution. They serve as key components in organic farming systems and IPM programs, offering a reliable method for reducing the reliance on hazardous chemical pesticides. The future of biopesticides in maize IPM looks promising, with advancements in formulation, delivery technologies, and genetic engineering further enhancing their effectiveness. As regulatory frameworks become more supportive and biopesticide production costs decrease, their global adoption is expected to rise. Precision agriculture technologies will allow for even more efficient use of biopesticides, ensuring targeted application and minimizing waste. By fostering continued research, government policies, and farmer education, biopesticides can become a cornerstone of sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring the long-term viability of maize production while protecting environmental and human health. Acknowledgments We extend our sincere thanks to two anonymous peer reviewers for their invaluable feedback on the initial draft of this study, whose critical evaluations and constructive suggestions have greatly contributed to the improvement of our manuscript. Conflict of Interest Disclosure The authors affirm that this research was conducted without any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. References Andorf C., Beavis W., Hufford M., Smith S., Suza W., Wang K., Woodhouse M., Yu J., and Lübberstedt T., 2019, Technological advances in maize breeding: past, present and future, Theoretical and Applied Genetics, 132: 817-849. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00122-019-03306-3 Akutse K., Subramanian S., Maniania N., Dubois T., and Ekesi S., 2020, Biopesticide research and product development in africa for sustainable agriculture and food security-experiences from the international centre of insect physiology and ecology (icipe), Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 4: 563016. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2020.563016 Bateman M., Day R., Rwomushana I., Subramanian S., Wilson K., Babendreier D., Luke B., and Edgington S., 2021, Updated assessment of potential biopesticide options for managing fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in Africa, Journal of Applied Entomology, 145: 384-393. https://doi.org/10.1111/jen.12856 Bateman M., Day R., Luke B., Edgington S., Kuhlmann U., and Cock M., 2018, Assessment of potential biopesticide options for managing fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in Africa, Journal of Applied Entomology, 142: 805-819. https://doi.org/10.1111/JEN.12565 Campos E., Oliveira J., Pascoli M., Lima R., and Fraceto L., 2016, Neem oil and crop protection: from now to the future, Frontiers in Plant Science, 7: 1494. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2016.01494 Grijalba E., Espinel C., Cuartas P., Chaparro M., and Villamizar L., 2018, Metarhizium rileyi biopesticide to control Spodoptera frugiperda: stability and insecticidal activity under glasshouse conditions, Fungal Biology, 122(11): 1069-1076. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.funbio.2018.08.010
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