Metarhizium is a genus of fungi known for its ability to infect and kill insects. These fungi are often used in biological pest control, as they can effectively target various pest species without harming beneficial insects. The spores of Metarhizium attach to the exoskeleton of insects and germinate, eventually penetrating the host's body. Once inside, the fungus proliferates, leading to the insect's death. This natural method of pest management is gaining popularity as an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides.