Microorganisms, including those genetically modified (GMOs), are
increasingly being released deliberately into the environment for
different purposes. One major interest is the use of antagonistic
organisms for biological control of pests and plant diseases. Both in
the development of biocontrol agents and their later risk assessment and
product approval, there is a need for methods that facilitate monitoring
of such introduced microorganisms. This book particularly addresses the
various approaches for monitoring introduced fungi and the current
status of techniques which may be relevant to use are described. Such
techniques include marker genes and other DNA-based techniques, serology
using polyclonals or monoclonals, the use of enzymes or secondary
metabolite profiles, and `electronic noses' as well as more traditional
methods like dilution plating.