Entomopathogenic fungi promising biocontrol agents for managing lepidopteran pests: Review of current knowledge

Entomopathogenic fungi, particularly Metarhizium and Beauveria species, are emerging as effective biocontrol agents for combating lepidopteran pests in agricultural and forestry settings. This review provides a comprehensive overview of their modes of action, secondary metabolites, extracellular enzymes, and infection mechanisms. These fungi employ various strategies, including the secretion of proteolytic enzymes, chitinolytic enzymes, esterases, and lipases, to penetrate the insect cuticle and initiate infection. The process involves spore recognition, adhesion, germination, and differentiation into infective structures. The impact of fungal strains on the insect immune system and the commercial availability of fungal pesticides are also discussed. Furthermore, the advancements in genetically engineered mycotoxins and the key challenges facing their implementation are addressed, in addition to listing future research directions. This review offers valuable insights for researchers involved in the development and application of entomopathogenic fungi for sustainable pest management practices.