The Institute of Plant Protection covers a wide range of subjects dealing with identification and control of pests and causal agents of plant diseases (insects, fungi, bacteria, viruses, phytoplasmas, nematodes and noxious weeds), as well as biology of beneficial insects used for pollination and honey production. Research is directed at solving problems by reducing damage to agriculture and open areas using environmentally- and human-friendly means to obtain pest- and disease-free produce, without environmental pollution while preventing pathogen establishment.