Worldwide it is estimated that around half of all food production is lost because of destruction by pests. Pests invading natural ecosystems also threaten biodiversity. Through its Faculty of Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, the University of Adelaide now offers a degree that will help you get started in one of the many careers in IPM that range from research and product development to providing advice to farmers, community groups and government bodies. With a major part of your study undertaken at the Waite Campus of the University, the leading agricultural research centre in Australia, you will join graduates who are highly regarded by employers in Australia and overseas and be very successful in gaining employment immediately after graduation. These cause decreased yields and reduced quality.
Fungal diseases can contaminate food with natural toxins.
IPM is based on a thorough understanding of the biology and ecology of pests, crop production systems, ecosystem structure, economics and decision-making. With IPM, pest damage is prevented using resistant plant varieties, biological controls, good cultural practices, and agrochemicals as a last resort. Biotechnology can be used to provide new crops varieties that are resistant to pest attack. Careful selection and integration of these practices means more reliable pest management.