Recent advancements toward augmentative biological control in pest-resilient cropping systems

Abstract

Augmentative biological control (ABC) has emerged as an important component of sustainable pest management, offering an environmentally compatible alternative to conventional chemical pesticides. However, the large-scale implementation of biological control agents (BCAs) remains constrained by challenges associated with mass production, quality consistency, storage, field performance, and economic feasibility. Recent technological advances are improving the precision, scalability, and reliability of ABC systems. Innovations in mass-rearing techniques, artificial diets, and cold storage have enhanced production efficiency, while developments in genomics, microbial symbioses, RNA-based technologies, and genome editing are expanding the adaptability and efficacy of BCAs. In parallel, drone-assisted delivery systems, automated monitoring tools, artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT)-based platforms, and predictive modeling are supporting precision deployment and real-time pest surveillance within integrated pest management (IPM) frameworks. This review critically evaluates these emerging technologies with emphasis on their biological efficacy, scalability, environmental safety, economic viability, and practical implementation in agricultural systems. In addition, current limitations, including high operational costs, technological accessibility, regulatory constraints, and potential ecological risks, are discussed. Integrating advanced technologies with ABC has significant potential to improve sustainable crop protection and reduce dependence on synthetic pesticides; however, broader adoption will require standardized evaluation protocols, interdisciplinary research, and stronger regulatory and farmer-support frameworks. Copyright © 2026 Riaz, Humza, Javed, Rebouh, Kafle, Chen, Alfatah, Shahzadi, El Sabagh and Antar.