Does experimental evolution produce better biological control agents? A critical review of the evidence

摘要: Biological control of crop pests is considered a good alternative or complement to the use pesticides. However, legislation restricts importation natural enemies pests. A potential way circumvent this limitation by using experimental evolution and/or artificial selection improve native biological agents. Here, we review studies that have used these methodologies and evaluate their success. Experimental has been used on wide range traits, with most focusing on improving performance in ecologically relevant environments, such as presence pesticides at different temperatures. Although were poorly replicated, selected traits generally improved following process. correlated responses (often form trade‐offs) other interest common. We suggest procedure can be increasing replication performing under more semi‐natural ensure useful are being selected.