Enhancement of Natural Control Ecosystem Services for Insect Pest Management by Manipulating Biodiversity in Rice-Based Ecosystems

Intensive rice production characterized by the application of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has led to negative environmental effects such as reduction of biodiversity and biological control services, high residues of pesticides in agricultural products, rapid development of insecticide resistance, and secondary pest outbreaks. These unwelcome negative effects have become a major obstacle to sustainable agriculture, and a threat the food safety and human health. Sustainable management strategies of rice insect pests have been explored for reducing application of chemical insecticides by manipulating biodiversity in non-rice habitats to enhance biological control and to improve ecosystem services.