Research on biological control

The SLU Center of Biological Control develops knowledge about biological control, to use living organisms to control pests.

A strong research environment in biological control

We aim to build a strong research environment in biological control and work closely with related research at SLU aimed at the development of sustainable pest control methods. We interact with stakeholders in government agencies, businesses as well as organizations.

More about CBC:s mission

Nematodes in biological control

Some nematodes can be plant pathogens on our crops, while others can be used as biological control agents against insect pests. We focus on both naturally occurring nematode enemies and fungi that can be inoculated to control the plant damaging nematodes. In addition, we investigate how entomopathogenic nematodes can be used in a good way.

A hand with a syringe injects something into a flower pot, photo.

Biodiversity and conservation biological control

Natural enemies of crop pests, such as insects and arachnids, often have a large effect on pest populations. Research that CBC has participated in has shown that natural enemies can reduce crop losses due to bird cherry oat aphids with 40-75% in Swedish spring barley fields.

Sustainable weed control

Eirini Lamprini Daouti's research focuses on community ecology, biodiversity and ecosystem functions. She is especially interested in the ecosystem function of weed seed predation and how to use it for sustainable weed control in agricultural fields.

Cornflower in an agricultural field. Photo.

Plant protection at the nano level

Ramesh Vetukuri is interested in plant-microbe and microbiome interactions focusing on developing new and sustainable ways to improve plant yield and control diseases. He focuses on microbes and their effectors, including small RNAs that modulate plant traits.

Ecosystem services and climate change

Chloë Raderschal is interested in the diversification of agroecosystems for supporting pollinators, natural enemies of pests, and the ecosystem services they provide in the light of climate change.

More research on biological control

Biological control research is taking place at many different places at SLU. Read more on the links below!

Nano technology for future plant protection Biological control of root rot in forestry Biological control of plant diseases

Published: 21 January 2025 - Page editor: cajsa.lithell@slu.se

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