The History of IPM in the Mediterranean Citriculture

The origins of biological control, the influence of its early successes, and relevant observations and experiments conducted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the Californian citrus industry are briefly presented. These practices, along with the growing disappointment with chemical control, naturally led to the move from strict biological control to the concept of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The history of IPM in the Mediterranean citriculture throughout that period is presented against this background, and the most important projects of classic and augmentative biological control carried out in the region are discussed. Brief information on the role of international institutions (IOBC, EU, FAO) and the scientific community in the development of IPM is also provided.