There are a number of biotic and abiotic factors which influence the potential success of biological agents for control of turfgrass pests. We have been examining some of these critical factors in a model system using the entomopathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana, for control of mole crickets. The three major issues that our research has addressed are strain-specific differences in efficacy, viability of the fungal spores over time in the field, and behavioral responses of the mole crickets to avoid contact with infective spores. Pathogenicity and efficacy of various strains of B. bassiana have been measured in laboratory and field studies. Our research indicates that strain selection is critical for success and strains that are isolated from the same host or a closely related species should be chosen. We have tested B. bassiana in combination with sublethal doses of conventional insecticides to determine any possible synergistic effects and have seen promising results. A fluorescence microscopy technique has been used to evaluate spore viability over time in the field and to determine the impact of carrier UV protectants and levels of irrigation on viability. Both of these studies emphasize the importance of strain selection and the impact of abiotic factors and management practices on the efficacy of this biocontrol agent. Lastly, we have been attempting to elucidate the mechanisms that mole crickets use to detect and avoid pathogenic spores to determine the most effective ways to minimize repellent behavioral responses. Implications from each of these areas of research will be discussed.