| Abstract: | Introduction of pests into Italy appears to be increasing. Between 1974 and 1994, 82 exotic insect species have been recorded as new to Italy, representing approximately four introductions per year, compared with one species per year up to the 1960s and two species per year in the 1980s. To combat these, and native, pests, 28 entomophagous species have been used in the last 20 years in classical biological control programmes. At the same time, 24 other species of entomophages have played a role in pest control without human intervention (i.e. fortuitous associations). There are examples of native and introduced entomophages acting fortuitously or in planned programmes on native or introduced pests. So far, none of the introduced entomophages appear to have caused any negative effects on the Italian ecosystem. However, because of increasing concerns about the possibility of such effects, there is a need to develop clear protocols covering entry and release of biological control agents. |
