Biological control can be used to regulate numerous types of organisms including insects, mites, spiders, snails, weeds, trees, fungi, algae and even animal by-products (i.e., cattle dung). Natural enemies that control plants are actually highly specific plant feeders (i.e., herbivores). Even pathogens of organisms are used that cause fatal diseases (e.g., milky spore disease of the Japanese beetle).

Biological control is often referred to as “biocontrol” and among researchers in the field it is often shortened to “BC.” The major emphasis of W2185 scientists is the control of insect pests and weedy plants.

Biological control may be divided into three areas of implementation: