Mass production of entomopathogenic fungi: challenges to the ‘mycodream’

Commercialization of entomopathogenic fungi, particularly the Ascomycete Beauveria, Metarhizium and Isaria, has gained momentum in the last several decades. Today there are well over 120 commercial mycoinsecticides worldwide. Having a candidate fungal isolate identified is just the start of the commercialization process. Production has to be optimized to meet anticipated commercial needs. Abilities of the different processes versus quantities of fungus needed narrows the choice of production methods. Beyond the basic production method are a multitude of small but critical details. An efficient recovery process is also required, and one that does not impair the shelf life of a mycoinsecticide. Good quality control of the technical grade product is critical. User friendly formulations are essential and also must not reduce shelf life. These various aspects will be discussed based on the presenter’s experience with the commercialization of Beauveria bassiana, and mass production / development of Metarhizium anisopliae.