Effects of bioinsecticide exposure route on aphids and their natural enemies in oilseed rape

Fatty acids and silicone polymers significantly reduced numbers of aphids but showed acute toxicity to parasitoids under direct exposure. Their lack of residual activity means that precise targeted application to pest populations is required but allows natural enemy populations to recolonise treated areas rapidly. These bioinsecticides may provide supplementary control within OSR integrated pest management programmes when applied strategically. © 2026 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.