Forests are a vital component of the natural environment as they support biodiversity, sequester carbon, play a key role in biogeochemical cycles, and produce the organic matter necessary for terrestrial organisms. Forests currently face threats ranging from natural phenomena such as lightning-caused fires, storms and some forms of pollution to man-made threats such as land use change (deforestation or intensive agriculture). In recent years, threats from pests and pathogens, especially non-native species [1], have increased in forests. Damage, decline and mortality caused by insects, fungi, pathogens and combinations of pests can lead to significant ecological, economic and social losses. In the fight against forest pests and pathogens, biocontrol can be an effective alternative to chemical pesticides and fertilisers. This review of forest pests and potential adversaries in the natural world highlights microbial inoculants and research efforts to further develop biological control agents against forest pests and pathogens. Recent studies have shown promising results for the use of microbial inoculants as preventive measures. Other studies suggest that these species have potential as fertilisers.
