Locusts are amongst the most dramatic and devastating of the insect pests.
Locusts swarms can cover more than 1000 km2 and cause immense damage as they progress across the countryside. Locust control is therefore the subject of intense political interest, especially during outbreaks and both national authorities and donor communities have been keen to develop control methods that are less insecticide dependent and more environmentally friendly. So, after years of careful research and extensive trials, it now seems that entomopathogenic control could provide a very effective solution. The fungal product proved as effective as conventional pesticides, while causing less environmental damage, and was preferred by farmers. Trials against variegated grasshopper in more humid areas also yielded encouraging results.