ABSTRACT
Since ancient times, humankind has had to protect crops from the threat posed by of insects, fungi, and invading plants. Different techniques and natural substances have been used for this purpose over the years, and largescale pesticide synthesis gave rise to a new era in food production. The first-generation pesticides were applied at high levels, remaining active against many species of insects for long periods. The rise of resistant species and the risk of pesticide toxicity to human health and to the environment in general has led to the concept of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in crop protection. Based on the principle of providing growers with the widest array of options to control pests, IPM can employ natural enemies, pest-resistant plants, culture management, and pesticides.
