Why is genus Nucleopolyhedrovirus considered an excellent biocontrol agent?
The majority of baculoviruses used as biological control agents are in the genus Nucleopolyhedrovirus. These viruses are excellent candidates for species-specific, narrow spectrum insecticidal applications.
They have been shown to have no negative impacts on plants, mammals, birds, fish, or even on non-target insects. This is especially desirable when beneficial insects are being conserved to aid in overall integrated pest management (IPM) program, or when an ecologically sensitive area is being treated.