Alternative Control Methods Research Articles

Lactobacillus and Saccharomyces fermentation products impact performance and the fecal microbiome in weanling pigs inoculated with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli.

Enterotoxigenic F4 E. coli (F4-ETEC) pose an economic threat to the swine industry through reduced growth, increased mortality and morbidity, and increased costs associated with treatment. Prevention and treatment of F4-ETEC often relies on antimicrobials; however, due to the threat of antimicrobial resistance, antimicrobial use is being minimized, and hence alternative control methods are needed. This study investigated the effects of postbiotics in the form of Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation products (LFP) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SFP), on pigs challenged with an F4 ETEC strain. Eighty pigs were selected based on a pre-screening F4-ETEC susceptibility test. The animals were divided into five treatments each with four replicate pens. Pigs were assigned to five different diets: a control diet (CON); CON diet with 3,000ppm ZnO (ZnO); CON diet with 2,000ppm LFP (LFP); CON diet with 2,000ppm SFP (SFP); CON diet with both 2,000ppm LFP and 2,000ppm SFP (LAS). Pigs were inoculated per os with F4-ETEC twice, on day 0 and day1 of the experiment. No significant differences in fecal consistency scores or fecal F4-ETEC concentration in pigs supplemented with LFP and/or SFP were detected. An increased diversity and abundance of Lactobacillaceae in the fecal microbiome of pigs supplemented with LFP were detected, as well as an increased final liveweight of pigs supplemented with LFP and/or SFP. This study demonstrated that the fecal microbiome is modified in F4-ETEC-challenged pigs supplemented with the combination of LFP and SFP, with these modifications previously associated with increased growth performance and health status in young pigs. Pigs receiving this combination of postbiotics also demonstrated an increased final liveweight, indicating that management of ETEC-associated performance loss may not require the complete removal of ETEC from a production system.

Advances and trends in weed management: A comprehensive review

Weed management is a critical aspect of agricultural practices that can significantly impact crop yield and quality. As traditional methods face challenges such as herbicide resistance and environmental concerns, the agricultural sector is witnessing a shift towards innovative strategies for weed control. This review explores the emerging trends in weed management, focusing on sustainable and efficient approaches. Among them, one prominent trend is the adoption of agro ecological weed management strategies, which combine various control methods such as cultivation techniques, mechanical techniques, biological control, and reasonable herbicide use. This approach minimizes reliance on herbicides while maximizing weed suppression and preserving natural ecosystems. Another significant trend is developing and utilizing precision agriculture technologies for targeted weed control techniques such as satellite imaging, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and sensor-based systems. These innovations enable farmers to accurately identify and manage weeds, reducing herbicide usage and minimizing environmental impact. Furthermore, the exploration of alternative weed control methods, including thermal, electrical, and microwave-based technologies, is gaining momentum. These non-chemical approaches offer potential solutions to herbicide-resistant weeds and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices. Moreover, the integration of advanced breeding techniques and biotechnology for developing herbicide-resistant crops and enhancing allelopathic traits presents promising avenues for long-term weed management. In conclusion, this review highlights emerging technology for dealing with major problems, including increased understanding of weed biology linked with genomics; novel herbicide-resistant crops and redesigned weed-competing crops; multi-target herbicides; and enhanced biocontrol agents. When combined, these strategies could make up the elements of the next integrated packages designed to impede the emergence of new weed issues.

The status of insecticide resistance of Anopheles coluzzii on the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe, after 20 years of malaria vector control

BackgroundInsecticide-based malaria vector control has been implemented on the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe (STP) for more than 20 years. During this period malaria incidence was significantly reduced to pre-elimination levels. While cases remained low since 2015, these have significantly increased in the last year, challenging the commitment of the country to achieve malaria elimination by 2025. To better understand the reasons for increasing malaria cases, levels and underlying mechanisms of insecticide resistance in the local Anopheles coluzzii populations were characterized.MethodsMosquito larval collections were performed in the rainy and dry seasons, between 2022 and 2024, in two localities of São Tomé and one locality in Príncipe. Susceptibility to permethrin, α-cypermethrin, pirimiphos-methyl and DDT was assessed using WHO bioassays and protocols. Intensity of resistance and reversal by PBO pre-exposure were determined for pyrethroid insecticides. The kdr locus was genotyped by PCR assays in subsamples of the mosquitoes tested.ResultsAnopheles coluzzii populations were fully susceptible to pirimiphos-methyl, but high levels of resistance to pyrethroids and DDT were detected, particularly in São Tomé rainy season collections. Increasing the pyrethroid and DDT dosages to 5 × and 10 × did not restore full susceptibility in all populations. Pre-exposure to PBO resulted into partial reversal of the resistance phenotype suggesting the presence of cytochrome P450 oxidases-mediated metabolic resistance. The L1014F knockdown resistance mutation was present in An. coluzzii on both islands but at much higher frequency in São Tomé where it was associated with the resistant phenotype.ConclusionsFuture vector control interventions should consider the use of non-pyrethroid insecticides or combination with synergists to overcome the high levels of pyrethroid resistance. Alternative control methods not dependent on the use of insecticides should be additionally implemented to achieve malaria elimination in STP.

Classification of Plant-Based Drinks Based on Volatile Compounds.

The increasing popularity of plant-based drinks has led to an expanded consumer market. However, available quality control technologies for plant-based drinks are time-consuming and expensive. Two alternative quality control methods, gas chromatography with ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) and an electronic nose, were used to assess 111 plant-based drink samples. Principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) were used to compare 58 volatile organic compound areas of GC-IMS gallery plots and 63 peptide sensors of the electronic nose. PCA results showed that GC-IMS was only able to completely separate one sample, whereas the electronic nose was able to completely separate seven samples. LDA application to GC-IMS analyses resulted in classification accuracies ranging from 15.4% to 100%, whereas application to electronic nose analyses resulted in accuracies ranging from 96.2% to 100%. Both methods were useful for classification, but each had drawbacks, and the electronic nose performed slightly better than GC-IMS. This study represents one of the first studies comparing GC-IMS and an electronic nose for the analysis of plant-based drinks. Further research is necessary to improve these methods and establish a rapid, cost-effective food quality control system based on volatile organic compounds.

Understanding Greenhouse Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Growers’ Perceptions for Optimal Phthorimaea absoluta (Meyrick) Management—A Survey in Greece

The tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) leafminer, Phthorimaea absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), is an extremely invasive pest and is threatening tomato production worldwide. Several strategies have been developed and implemented for managing P. absoluta. Effective pest control strategies based on integrated pest management (IPM) schemes include different cultural practices and techniques. This study seeks to (a) examine the perspectives, attitudes, and opinions of greenhouse tomato producers in Greece regarding different methods of P. absoluta management and (b) to determine whether the perceived damage caused by P. absoluta could be predicted by the implementation of various control management strategies. A questionnaire was employed to ascertain the views and beliefs of the participants. The questionnaire comprised five-point Likert scale questions. Principal component analysis (PCA) and binary logistic regression analysis were applied to examine the relationship between the reported perceived insect damage and the utilization of control techniques. The study findings indicate that greater adoption of alternative control methods and higher levels of adherence to preventive measures against P. absoluta are associated with a perception of reduced levels of damage. Conversely, individuals with a strong reliance on pesticides use are more likely to perceive a higher level of damage. Ultimately, as tomato growers are trying to deal with P. absoluta, more education and research on other alternatives could help the reduction of chemical use, promoting more environmentally friendly practices. The findings highlight integrated pest management over pesticides for sustainable tomato production. This can guide future research and extension efforts to develop tailored P. absoluta management approaches for Greek greenhouse growers and similar environments.

Biocontrol toxicity of Trichoderma harzianum (Hypocreales: Hypocreaceae) derived chemical molecules against malarial mosquito Anopheles stephensi with molecular docking studies.

In this study, the crude chemical constituents extracted from Trichoderma harzianum and their toxicity were evaluated against the larvae, pupae, and adults of Anopheles stephensi at 24 and 48h post-treatment. Additionally, the chemical constituents of the crude extracts were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, and their ability to bind with target proteins was confirmed through molecular docking studies. The results clearly demonstrated that the chemical compounds from T. harzianum exhibited promising mortality rates in larvae (98.66%), pupae (92%), and adult mosquitoes (81.33%) of A. stephensi 48h after treatment. The study assessed the impact of crude extracts on insect enzymes 24h post treatment, revealing significant alterations: a reduction in catalase activity and an increase in glutathione S-transferase levels compared to the control group. The treatment with crude chemical extracts resulted in mortality rates of 37.33% and 52% at 24 and 48h, respectively, on Artemia salina , indicating minimal effects. After 48h, the crude extract exhibited minimal toxicity on Eudrilus eugeniae, with a recorded mortality rate of 15% after 48h. GC-MS analysis of T. harzianum-derived crude extracts identified ten major chemical constituents. Among these, chemicals, 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl) phenol (19.02%) was recognized as the predominant chemical component. This 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl) phenol molecule demonstrates a high binding affinity with target proteins, which is a key factor contributing to its insecticidal activity. This study concludes that the chemical constituents derived from T. harzianum are promising candidates for an eco-friendly, effective, and target-specific alternative control method for A. stephensi mosquitos.

Health issues and management practices of pesticide exposure in Ethiopia, East Africa

Pesticides are commonly used in agriculture for pest control, but their improper usage and handling can lead to high farmer exposures, negative health effects, and pollution of water bodies. The purpose of this study was to investigate farmer’s perceptions of the effects of pesticide runoff on water bodies, and to describe their self-reported knowledge of appropriate pesticide use, methods of application, sources of information, and related health issues and management strategies in Ethiopia. Data were collected via structured questionnaire, which was administered as an in-person interview to 582 farmers who cultivated vegetables. To assess unsafe pesticide handling practices, researchers observed the storage of pesticides and the condition of personal protective equipment and asked farmers about their pesticide disposal methods. The study found that nearly 87.97% of farmers reported mixing pesticides using a stick or their bare hands. Most respondents (88.83%) mixed pesticides to spray just on their farmland, and some (10.14%) were near water sources. It revealed that farmers have a low level of awareness about the risks and effects associated with pesticides and do not follow safe practices. Out of the farmers who had utilized pesticides, 55.67% reported encountering health issues associated with pesticide exposure. To reduce exposure and health risks, the study suggests implementing comprehensive interventions, such as integrated pest management, safety training, and alternative control methods.

Effectiveness of the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi Funneliformis mossae and Rhizophagus irregularis as biological control agent of the citrus nematode Tylenchulus semipenetrans

Tylenchulus semipenetrans is one of the most destructive citrus pest globally, causing significant crop losses. Its management is challenging due to its broad host range and adaptability to diverse conditions. While nematicides are commonly used, they increase production costs and pose risks to health and the environment. This study aims to develop an alternative control method for this plant parasite by investigating the potential of two arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), Rhizophagus irregularis (C. Walker and A. Schüßler, no. BGCBJ09 and Funneliformis mosseae (Gerd. and Trappe, BEG no. 12), under greenhouse conditions. Results demonstrated that both AMF strains significantly reduced T. semipenetrans populations in the soil and roots of citrus rootstocks. In soil, F. mosseae and R. irregularis reduced nematode populations by 95.44 % and 86.5 % in Citrus aurantium, and by 95.57 % and 80.47 % in Carrizo citrange, respectively. In roots, reductions were 81.55 % and 63.10 % for C. aurantium with R. irregularis and F. mosseae, respectively, and 88.89 % and 77.78 % for C. citrange with F. mosseae and R. irregularis, respectively. Additionally, AMF significantly enhanced the growth and biomass of citrus rootstocks compared to the control group infected solely with T. semipenetrans.

Developmentally regulated generation of a systemic signal for long-lasting defence priming in tomato.

Tomato is a major global crop. However, its production is limited by Botrytis cinerea. Due to the toxicity of postharvest pesticide application, alternative control methods such as priming are being investigated. Plants were treated with β-aminobutyric acid (BABA) at two developmental stages and resistance against B. cinerea was tested in fruit tissue and in progenies. DNA methylation and RNA sequencing were conducted to characterise the (epi)genetic changes associated with long-lasting resistance. Grafting experiments were done to assess the systemic nature of this signal, which was further characterised by small RNA (sRNA) sequencing of scions. Only BABA-treated seedlings displayed induced resistance (IR). DNA methylation analysis revealed seedling-specific changes, which occurred in the context of lower basal methylation. BABA-IR was found to be transmissible from primed rootstock to grafted unprimed scions. In these scions, we identified a subset of mobile 24 nt sRNAs associated with genes showing primed expression during infection in fruit. Our results demonstrate the functional association of a systemic signal with long-lasting IR and priming. Through integrated omics approaches, we have identified markers of long-lasting priming in tomato fruit which could also serve as targets for durable resistance in other crops.

Ecotoxicological effects of a glyphosate-based herbicide on Gryllus (Gryllus) assimilis (Orthoptera: Gryllidae) ontogeny: a study on antioxidant system, oxidative stress and cholinergic system.

Brazil is an important global agricultural producer and to increase production the country has extensively used glyphosate-based herbicides (GBH), surpassing consumption and sales records. Consequently, concerns have arisen regarding the potential impact of GBH on ecosystems and non-target organisms. Thus, the effects of GBH exposure were evaluated throughout the cricket Gryllus (Gryllus) assimilis ontogeny, with five developmental stages. Each period contained 3 control and 3 treated boxes, with 15 crickets each, resulting in 90 insects at a time. The control groups received water, while the treated ones were continuously exposed to GBH (0.864 mg.GBH.L-1), with the solutions changed every 48 h. After each exposure time the crickets' group were euthanized to assess the activity of antioxidant enzymes (GST, GR, GPx, and CAT), cholinergic enzymes (ChE), and lipid peroxidation (LPO). The results revealed changes in the systems throughout different developmental phases. Specifically, CAT activity exhibited a significant increase during the nymphal phase, associated with the dismutation of hydrogen peroxide. The GBH increased GST, indicating its role in cellular detoxification, particularly during adulthood. In the senescence stage there was a considerable rise in ChE enzymes, suggesting their involvement in both, choline esters breakdown and potential pesticide detoxification. The action of these enzymes to effectively control lipid peroxidation shows the adaptability of this species to environmental contamination. These findings underscore the long-term effects of agrochemical pollution and emphasize the importance of sustainable practices, effective regulations, and alternative weed control methods.

Alternative control of bacterial leaf blight of eucalypt using essential oils

Bacterial leaf blight, attributed to Xanthomonas citri pv. eucalyptorum comb. nov., poses a significant threat to eucalypt nursery and field conditions in Brazil, resulting in substantial annual losses. While various disease management practices are employed, the quest for alternative control methods and environmentally friendly antimicrobial agents remains imperative. Thus, this project was developed to assess the potential efficacy in vitro of essential oils derived from tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), copaíba (Copaifera officinalis), and lemongrass (Cymbopogon spp.) against X. citri pv. eucalyptorum. The sensitivity of the bacteria to these oils was examined via antibiogram testing, with each antibiogram subjected to different oil dilutions (6.25 %, 10.00 %, 12.50 %, 25.00 %, 50.00 %, and 100.00 %). Inhibition zones were assessed to determine the inhibitory capacity of each compound on microbial growth, and statistical analysis was conducted using the Mann-Whitney test. Copaíba oil did not exhibit any inhibitory effect on the pathogen growth in vitro. Conversely, both lemongrass and tea tree oils displayed inhibitory effects on the target bacteria, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 12.50 %. Furthermore, no significant distinctions were observed between the utilization of 12.50 % and 25.00 % concentrations of tea tree, neither between 25.00 % of lemongrass or 50.00 % of tea tree dilutions. These findings may pave the way for new strategies in pathogen management.

Glucanase enzyme activity from rhizospheric Streptomyces spp. inhibit growth and damage the cell wall of Fusariumoxysporum

Fusarium oxysporum, a phytopathogenic fungus responsible for fusarium wilt in more than 120 plant species, is primarily managed using synthetic fungicides, which pose environmental hazards. Therefore, alternative biological control methods are urgently needed. Actinobacteria isolated from maize rhizosphere, which produce β-1.3-glucanase enzymes that degrade fungal cell wall glucans, offer promising potential as biocontrol agents. This study aimed to evaluate glucanase activity, identify genes of actinobacteria, and assess their antifungal activity against F. oxysporum. Actinobacteria demonstrating glucanase production, Streptomyces sp. ARJ 22, Streptomyces tendae ARJ 42, Streptomyces sp. ARJ 44, and Streptomyces sp. ARJ 81, were selected. Streptomyces isolates exhibited activity values ranging from 10.38 to 24.08 U/mg of protein. The presence of the bglS gene, encoding endo-β-1.3-glucanase from glycoside hydrolase family 16, supports the production of glucanase. The amino acid sequence was constructed to 3D structural model. This model exhibited high similarity to endo-β-1.3-glucanase from Nocardiopsis sp. F96. In vitro assays demonstrated that all isolates inhibited hyphal growth of F. oxysporum. Direct inhibition assays showed an average inhibition of 26.18%, whereas the filtrate culture method showed 29.38% inhibition. Enzymes from Streptomyces sp. ARJ 44 was partially purified using acetone, resulting in a specific activity of 46.34 U/mg of protein and a purity increase of up to 1.92-fold. The purified enzyme inhibited the growth of F. oxysporum mycelia by 35.80%. This inhibition was confirmed by observing damage to F. oxysporum hyphae using scanning electron microscopy. The study concluded that the four Streptomyces sp. Strains producing β-1.3-glucanase enzymes have potential as biocontrol agents against F. oxysporum.

Response of the tomato leaf miner Phthorimaea absoluta to wild and domesticated tomato genotypes.

Phthorimaea absoluta, a highly destructive invasive pest, poses a significant threat to tomato production globally. Exploring alternative control methods, such as host plant resistance can contribute to diminish reliance on insecticides and promote sustainable integrated pest management (IPM) practices. Thus, the identification of new P. absoluta-resistant tomato cultivars and potential wild sources for breeding programmes remains imperative. We evaluated the effect of 19 tomato genotypes, comprising 16 domesticated varieties and three wild tomato species, on oviposition output of female P. absoluta, as well as on larval performance under no-choice conditions using detached leaves. We also characterized and quantified glandular and nonglandular trichomes, exploring their potential correlation with the response of P. absoluta to the tomato plants. Generally, fewer eggs were oviposited on domesticated plants, whereas the wild tomatoes Solanum arcanum and S. neorickii and the domesticated tomato Corona F1 impaired larval development. The pest larvae consumed a limited area of leaflets from S. arcanum and S. neorickii compared to other genotypes, leading to the lowest weights in both male and female pupae. All tomato plants exhibited a prevalence of nonglandular over glandular trichomes, except for S. arcanum, which exhibited a higher abundance of glandular trichomes. Although higher trichome density correlated with longer larval settlement on the leaflets, it did not influence female oviposition. Our findings demonstrate that the wild tomatoes S. arcanum and S. neorickii could be considered as potential sources for breeding programmes, and the domesticated Corona F1 could offer IPM options against P. absoluta. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Diversity of culturable bacterial isolates and their potential as antimicrobial against human pathogens from Afar region, Ethiopia.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an escalating global health threat affecting humans, animals, and the environment, underscoring the urgent need for alternative pathogen control methods. Natural products, particularly secondary metabolites from bacteria, continue to be a vital source of antibiotics. However, microbial habitats and metabolites in Africa remain largely unexplored. In this study, we isolated and screened bacteria from Ethiopia's Afar region, characterized by extreme conditions like high temperatures, volcanic activity, high salinity, and hot springs to identify potential bioactive compounds. We discovered diverse bacterial isolates with antimicrobial activity against various pathogens, including strain Sl00103 (Bacillus sp. Sl00103), which demonstrated significant antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. GC-MS analysis identified several antimicrobial compounds, highlighting strain Sl00103 as a promising source of secondary metabolites with potential pharmaceutical applications and warranting further investigation.

Effectiveness of Essential Oils from Leaves of Two Plant Species in the Control of Anopheles gambiae

Background: The current method of controlling malaria vectors using synthetic chemicals has caused serious problems for human health and the environment. Hence, a need for alternative, cheap, readily available, and acceptable mosquito control methods. Objective: To evaluate the bioinsecticidal efficacy of Ocimum gratissimum and Mesosphaerum suaveolens against Anopheles gambiae using the bioassay method. Methods: Oil extracts in 5 ml, 25 ml, and 75 ml serially diluted twice in 100 ml of olive oil formed 0.05%, 0.25%, and 0.75%, while 1 m in 100 ml formed 1%. Olive oil only served as a control. Twenty-five female Anopheles mosquitoes, aged 2-4 days, were blown into tubes containing filter paper-coated essential oils of various concentrations in quadruplicates. Results: Over 50% mortality was recorded in mosquitoes exposed to 0.75% and 1% O. gratissimum compared to others (p <0.05). Knockdown time (KDT) was higher in mosquitoes exposed to 1% O. gratissimum compared to others (p <0.05). Generalized linear regressions showed that the essential oils of O. gratissimum and M. suaveolens contributed 4% (f2 = 0.042) and 14% (f2 = 0.167) to the variability of mortality with time. KDT50 (9.34 - 131.5 minutes) and KDT95 (77.6 - 275 minutes) of O. gratissimum as well as KDT50 (162.8 - 233.6 minutes) and KDT95 (302.8 - 415 minutes) of M. suaveolens were recorded. Stigmastane; 4,22-Stigmastadiene-3-one (Area: 45.88%) in O. gratissimum and gamma-Sitosterol (16.02%) in M. suaveolens were identified by Gas Chromatogram as the highest dose of chemical compounds. Conclusion: The low bioinsecticidal activities of these plant extracts could be attributed to the low occurrence of terpenoids and alkaloids.

SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIES FOR ODONATA MANAGEMENT IN FISH FARMING: REVIEW AND IMPLICATIONS

This study conducted a systematic review of the literature on predation of Odonata larvae in fish farming, using databases such as Google Scholar and SciELO. The results showed that predation can reduce the survival of fry by up to 30%, impacting the productivity of ponds. Alternative control methods, such as natural extracts and entomopathogenic fungi, were analyzed, which proved to be effective without the negative effects of agrochemicals, as well as the use of prey, such as Chironomidae. The research highlighted the importance of sustainable management strategies and the preservation of Odonata diversity, which are essential for the health of aquatic ecosystems. In addition, the use of water quality monitoring technologies was considered essential to optimize larval management.

The application of ozone within the food industry, mode of action, current and future applications, and regulatory compliance.

The food industry faces numerous challenges today, with the prevention and reduction of microbial contamination being a critical focus. While traditional chemical-based methods are effective and widely used, rising energy costs, the development of microbial tolerances, and growing awareness of the ecological impact of chemical biocides have renewed interest in novel biocides. Ozone, in both its gaseous and aqueous forms, is recognized as a potent disinfectant against bacteria, viruses, and fungi due to its high oxidation potential. Our review highlights several studies on the applications of ozone within the food industry, including its use for surface and aerosol disinfection and its capacity to reduce viable Listeria monocytogenes, a pertinent foodborne pathogen harbouring environmental and biocide stress tolerances and biofilm former. We also explore the use of ozone in food treatment and preservation, specifically on blueberries, apples, carrots, cabbage, and cherry tomatoes. While ozone is an effective disinfectant, it is important to consider material incompatibility, and the risks associated with prolonged human exposure to high concentrations. Nevertheless, for certain applications, ozone proves to be an efficacious and valuable alternative or complementary method for microbial control. Compliance with the biocide products regulation will require ozone device manufacturers to produce proven efficacy and safety data in line with British standards based on European standards (BS EN), and researchers to propose adaptations to account for ozone's unique properties.

The carrot cyst nematode Heterodera carotae: a major plant-parasitic nematode requiring more investigation

Summary The present study reviews the knowledge to date on the carrot cyst nematode Heterodera carotae, which has become the primary threat to the carrot sector following the withdrawal of the last chemical soil fumigants in Europe. A keyword co-occurrence network was used to structure this review into five research areas: i) biology and epidemiology of H. carotae; ii) molecular identification and phylogeny; iii) population genetics and genomics; iv) control methods and strategies; and v) root exudates and hatching stimulation. Our findings indicate that H. carotae is an under-studied plant-parasitic nematode species, with several identified alternative control methods that require further investigation.

Advancements in Bacteriophages for the Fire Blight Pathogen Erwinia amylovora.

Erwinia amylovora, the causative agent of fire blight, causes significant economic losses for farmers worldwide by inflicting severe damage to the production and quality of plants in the Rosaceae family. Historically, fire blight control has primarily relied on the application of copper compounds and antibiotics, such as streptomycin. However, the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains and growing environmental concerns have highlighted the need for alternative control methods. Recently, there has been a growing interest in adopting bacteriophages (phages) as a biological control strategy. Phages have demonstrated efficacy against the bacterial plant pathogen E. amylovora, including strains that have developed antibiotic resistance. The advantages of phage therapy includes its minimal impact on microbial community equilibrium, the lack of a detrimental impact on plants and beneficial microorganisms, and its capacity to eradicate drug-resistant bacteria. This review addresses recent advances in the isolation and characterization of E. amylovora phages, including their morphology, host range, lysis exertion, genomic characterization, and lysis mechanisms. Furthermore, this review evaluates the environmental tolerance of E. amylovora phages. Despite their potential, E. amylovora phages face certain challenges in practical applications, including stability issues and the risk of lysogenic conversion. This comprehensive review examines the latest developments in the application of phages for controlling fire blight and highlights the potential of E. amylovora phages in plant protection strategies.

Evaluation of Postemergence Weed Control Programs in Cotton Without the Addition of Glyphosate

Glyphosate has played an important role in agricultural production systems, especially after the release of glyphosate resistant crops. With increased usage and an overall reliance on chemical control, weed resistance to glyphosate has occurred and is now a major issue. The objective of this research was to investigate weed control levels provided by glufosinate, 2,4-D, and clethodim as an alternative to glyphosate. Multiple POST applications generally provided superior weed control in comparison to a single early-POST application. No programs provided greater than 80% warm-season grass control beginning 21 d after mid-POST application. Applications of glufosinate or glufosinate + 2,4-D fb clethodim + glufosinate, glufosinate + 2,4-D, or clethodim + glufosinate + 2,4-D provided adequate broadleaf weed control throughout the rating period. Although POST-only programs are an option, they are not a sustainable weed control practice. It remains important to incorporate residual herbicides into a weed control program as well as alternative weed control methods.