研究室紹介

Insect Pathology and Microbial Control

Laboratory of Insect Pathology and Microbial Control conducts basic and applied research on entomopathogenic microorganisms aiming at developing biological control of insect pests using them as microbial natural enemies.

Research Interests

1. Exploration, isolation, and identification of entomopathogens, and studies on their pathogenicity, ecology, and host-pathogen interactions
2. Selection and application of entomopathogens with high microbial control efficacy
3. Investigation of host defense mechanisms against pathogens and host-pathogen interactions for infectious disease prevention in beneficial insects

Insects get similar diseases like humans which are caused by pathogenic microorganisms. Such entomopathogens that cause disease in insects are harmless to humans, domestic animals, and other animals and plants. Therefore, these entomopathogens are safely used to control insect pests of crops and forests. Although chemical insecticides are generally used to eliminate pests, microbial control of them by entomopathogens are attracting attention as the method that is environmentally friendly and do not disrupt the ecosystem. Our laboratory conducts basic and applied research on entomopathogens as microbial natural enemies of insect pests.

Keyword of Research Area