A Helpful Immigrant
by Mike Tapp
This article investigates the use of bio-control agents – insects or other organisms that are imported to manage plant pests. The article explains why they can be safer than chemical-control agents. It then investigates the research and trials that have to take place before a bio-control agent is allowed into the country and the constant monitoring that is required to make sure that these new immigrants are doing the work they have been imported to do.