Use Of Chemical Pesticides Research Articles

Knowledge and handling of pesticide by the retailers in the north-eastern part of Bangladesh

Application of pesticides is an accessible practice against different insects and pest of a wide ranges of crops in Bangladesh Pesticide retailers are involved to recommend and sale of pesticide to the farmers in Bangladesh. A comprehensive survey was conducted to retailers and farmers in six Upazilas of two districts of north-eastern part of Bangladesh using structured questionnaire. To collect data, 54 retailers and 150 farmers were interviewed using simple random sampling method focusing on the information related to the knowledge and experience on pesticide and pest management with farmer’s attitudes towards pesticide retailers. Retailing business is being conducted by only male (100%) and 85.2% of retailers was involved in personal business. Regardless of their educational status, the retailers engage in agrochemical industries where 94.5% retailers got the registration from UAO. It was observed that 31.5% of retailers have higher secondary education followed by secondary (25.9%) and primary (18.5%). Surprisingly, only 1.9% of retailers completed a diploma course on pesticide where maximum (68.5%) received a short training that organized by Agriculture Office and different pesticide companies. Moreover, 20.4% of retailers did not participate in any kind of training while 42.6% attended short training. The facilities like standard safety measures, first aid kit, and firefighting equipment are not available in most of the retail shops, although 22.2% of shops have poor storage facilities. According to 81.5% retailers, pesticide applications have been increasing over the last 5 years. The overall scenario demonstrates the devastating and inappropriate use of chemical pesticides without proper knowledge and guidelines. It also represents the dominancy of pesticides applications over IPM. Long-term training of the retailers and strong monitoring of their practices is essential.

Insights into the role of non-coding RNAs in the development of insecticide resistance in insects.

Pest control heavily relies on chemical pesticides has been going on for decades. However, the indiscriminate use of chemical pesticides often results in the development of resistance in pests. Almost all pests have developed some degree of resistance to pesticides. Research showed that the mechanisms of insecticide resistance in insects encompass metabolic resistance, behavioral resistance, penetration resistance and target-site resistance. Research on the these mechanisms has been mainly focused on the cis-regulatory or trans-regulatory for the insecticide resistance-related genes, with less attention paid to non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as microRNA (miRNA), long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), and circular RNA (circRNA). There has been increased studies focus on understanding how these ncRNAs are involved in post-transcriptional regulation of insecticide resistance-related genes. Besides, the formatted endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory networks (lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA) has been identified as a key player in governing insect resistance formation. This review delves into the functions and underlying mechanisms of miRNA, lncRNA, and circRNA in regulating insect resistance. ncRNAs orchestrate insect resistance by modulating the expression of detoxification enzyme genes, insecticide target genes, as well as receptor genes, effectively regulating both target-site, metabolic and penetration resistance in insects. It also explores the regulatory mechanisms of ceRNA networks in the development of resistance. By enhancing our understanding of the mechanisms of ncRNAs in insecticide resistance, it will not only provide valuable insights into the new mechanisms of insecticide resistance but also help to enrich new directions in ncRNAs gene regulation research.

Policy options for promoting wider use of biopesticides in Thai agriculture

Biopesticides are rapidly growing in importance for crop protection globally, but nearly all growth is happening in high income countries. No previous work systematically analyzed how lower-income countries can better benefit from the increased availability of biopesticides, which is important because these countries are particularly affected by the adverse effects of chemical pesticide use. Here we review the legislation of biopesticides in Thailand and combine this with stakeholder interviews and interview data from 300 smallholder farmers producing rice, fruit, vegetables, and flowers. We find that Thailand has adopted a biopesticide registration system that facilitates a fast-track registration, but it is still relatively costly considering the small market size. While 65 % of the sampled farmers used biopesticides, most farmers still heavily relied on conventional pesticides as their main method to control pests. Education, farming experience, positive attitudes of biopesticides, adoption of other integrated pest management methods and contacts with government extension agents were positively associated with biopesticide use. Coordinated action is needed to stimulate the supply of a wider range of biopesticide products while promoting adoption among farmers.

The link between farmers’ sowing date and herbicide management

This study presents an on-farm approach to investigate the impact of the sowing date on herbicide management in arable farming. Ten years of data (2012–2021) on the herbicide use and crop management practices of 4325 fields in north-eastern Germany were examined for winter barley, winter oilseed rape and winter wheat. We investigated whether the sowing date was related to the herbicide use intensity (described as Treatment Frequency Index, TFI) and mode of action (MoA) use (classified using the global HRAC classification).While the sowing of winter barley and winter oilseed rape took place over a short period of two weeks, sowing dates for winter wheat were spread over two months from the beginning of September to the end of October.Seventy-five percent of the winter barley fields were treated with HRAC group 2 herbicides and every second field was treated with herbicides in HRAC groups 15 and 3, respectively. Delayed autumn sowing of winter barley differing by 14 days decreased the in-crop use intensity of HRAC group 2 by up to 16%, for HRAC group 3 by up to 15% and for HRAC group 15 by up to 27%.In contrast, the herbicide management did not relate to the time of sowing in winter oilseed rape, except for HRAC groups 14 and 15.Ninety percent of the winter wheat fields were treated with HRAC group 2 herbicides and almost seventy-five percent with HRAC groups 15 herbicides, respectively. For winter wheat, our study provided evidence that delayed sowing dates in-mid October reduced the use intensity of HRAC group 2 by up to 41% and for HRAC 15 by up to 35%, respectively, compared with sowing at the beginning of September.With regard to the European-wide efforts to reduce chemical pesticide use by 50% by 2030, we conclude that cultural weed control with a sowing date delay may be highly effective at meeting this requirement. Additionally, delayed sowing dates have the potential to reduce the use intensity of MoA with a high resistance risk.

Knowledge on Chemical Pesticide use among Farmers Exposed to Pesticides in Panchkhal Municipality, Kavrepalanchok, Nepal

Background. Pesticide exposure is a serious threat to public health in developing countries like Nepal. As an agricultural country, farmers are using pesticides indiscriminately to increase the yield of crops, which results in continued contamination of the environment and food and has adverse effects on human health. This study aims to assess the knowledge and evaluate the relationship between pesticide use knowledge and pesticide toxicity symptoms among farmers in Panchkhal Municipality. Materials and Methods. A cross‐sectional study design was used among 238 farmers (both male and female) exposed to pesticides for a minimum of 1 year. The data collection period was from April to June 2022. The data were collected using convenient sampling through interviews. Semistructured questionnaires were used as a tool for data collection. This study has been approved by the ethics committee. Data entry and analysis were done in SPSS version 16.00. Bivariate analysis was done using the Chi‐square test. Results. The mean age ± SD of the participants was 45.75 ± 13.12 years. The mean year of exposure was 15.52 ± 9.46 years, and the mean duration of working in the field was 3.22 ± 2.17 hr/day. Burning eye (51.2%) was the most common symptom of pesticide poisoning. The most common pesticide used was insecticide. Most farmers (92.4%) had good knowledge of the use of pesticides. There was no significant association between the symptoms of pesticide exposure and knowledge. Those who stored the pesticide properly in a locked container in a well‐ventilated area showed a significant association with knowledge of pesticide use (P ≤ 0.001). Conclusion. This study showed that most farmers have good knowledge of pesticide use. Still, educational programs and legislation promoting the use of safer pesticides are needed because they are the ones who handle and use chemical pesticides. Furthermore, the government should conduct training on the safe management of pesticide use.

Application of a genetic algorithm in solving problems of environmental protection in agro-industrial production

The study is devoted to the problems of environmental protection in agro-industrial production. The purpose of the work is to identify the main aspects of the negative impact of agro-industrial complexes on natural resources and to develop effective strategies to reduce environmental impact. The research methodology includes an analysis of the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and water resources, as well as an assessment of their impact on soil, water bodies and the atmosphere. The results obtained make it possible to identify key factors influencing the level of pollution and determine the prospects for the introduction of eco-technologies in agricultural production. The study provides important information for the development and implementation of sustainable development policies in the agro-industrial sector, taking into account the balance between food production and environmental conservation.

Open-Format Prescription Maps for Variable Rate Spraying in Orchard Farming

Highlights Straightforward procedure to code prescription maps independent of manufacturers. Methodology suitable for orchard crops and vineyards including pressures up to 10 bar and flowrates up to 100 L/min. Algorithm validated for both trellis-based continuous rows and traditional orchard rows of discrete trees. Method scalable to other agricultural operations, such as fertilizing or data registration for auditing purposes. Abstract. The implementation of crop protection solutions contributing to significant reductions in the use and risk of chemical pesticides has motivated the interest of site-specific systems, such as variable rate technologies based on user-set prescriptions. However, the practical implementation of variable rates has been dissuasive for many growers who are not familiar with digital solutions, as proprietary firmware is often difficult to grasp. This paper presents a method for formatting prescription maps that is independent of manufacturers, can be easily and freely implemented by industry and can be adopted by growers not familiar with advanced software tools. The methodology was successfully demonstrated for perennial specialty crops, in particular for trellised vineyards in vertical shoot position and for traditional olive groves. Results showed that the variations within user prescription maps were translated to the fields, but flow errors appeared due to the challenge of measuring flow and pressure in the highly pulsating actuation of pulse-width-modulated (PWM) valves. Such errors diminished with the use of low-volume rates and the optimal selection of the nozzles when adjusted to the real pressure measured in the field. The use cases validated in the field showed the consistency of the method for highly populated prescription maps of 1,221 points/ha accessible to advanced farmers, as well as for modest maps of 80 points/ha within reach of the majority of growers. Keywords: Automated map building, Local tangent plane coordinates, Orchard crop operations, Precision farming, Prescription maps, User-centered approach, Variable rate spraying.

Characterization of Trichoderma species from agricultural soils of Paraguay

There is a growing interest in the development of sustainable alternatives to the use of chemical pesticides for pest management in agricultural systems. This research aimed to isolate and characterize native strains of Trichoderma spp. from different soils of Paraguay using morphological and molecular criteria. We processed plant and soil samples from eight commercial farms distributed in different departments of Paraguay and isolated 14 monosporic isolates of Trichoderma spp., obtaining two isolates from the Department of Alto Paraná (FCQ36 and FCQ37), four isolates from Cordillera (FCQ42, FCQ43, FCQ44, and FCQ46), one isolate from Central (FCQ32), and seven isolates from Itapúa (FCQ13, FCQ16, FCQ18, FCQ19, FCQ21, FCQ23, and FCQ47). In addition, phylogenetic analyses using the ITS and tef1α loci were carried out. A better resolution of the tef1a gene than the ITS region was observed. Moreover, a third phylogenetic tree from the concatenated ITS and tef1α sequences matrix was generated, obtaining the same topology with higher bootstrap support values. Through this approach, we reported for the first time the presence of Trichoderma koningiopsis (FCQ19, FCQ36, and FCQ37), Trichoderma neokoningii (FCQ13), and Trichoderma asperellum (FCQ42, FCQ43, FCQ44, and FCQ46), Trichoderma brevicompactum (FCQ18 and FCQ21), and Trichoderma longibrachiatum (FCQ 47) in Paraguay. The Trichoderma species identified in this study can be used to develop effective biocontrol products for agricultural and industrial purposes in Paraguay.

Utilization of Bio-Pesticides as A Solution to Farmer Dependence on The Use of Chemical Pesticides in Sawahan Village, Donorejo District, Pacitan Regency

Abstract. The implementation of high-input energy-based agricultural systems that use chemical fertilizers and pesticides has become a habit for farmers to manage their agricultural land. However, an unwise use of pesticides can cause health problems, environmental pollution, and long-term disruption of the ecological balance (Hersanti, Santosa, & Dono, 2013). Therefore, the search for environmentally friendly alternative solutions to pest and pathogen control needs to be increased. One of the components in increasing agricultural productivity based on organic farming systems is pest control. Pests and pathogens are inhibiting factors in plant cultivation in Sawahan Village. The purpose of this community service activity was to increase the knowledge and skills of farmers in Sawahan Village, Donorejo District, Pacitan Regency, in making and applying bio-pesticides to control pests and pathogens in cultivated plants. The implementation of activities through the Regular Community Service Program (KKN) by the Community Service Institute (LPM) Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta 2022/2023 Odd Semester was to provide socialization and training in making bio-pesticides using materials found in the surrounding environment. The result of this community service showed that the people in Sawahan Village can develop knowledge related to bio-pesticides to help increasing the crop productivity so that the community can improve the existing organic farming systems.

Utilization of Bio-Pesticides as A Solution To Farmer Dependence on The Use of Chemical Pesticides in Sawahan Village, Donorejo District, Pacitan Regency

Abstract. The implementation of high-input energy-based agricultural systems that use chemical fertilizers and pesticides has become a habit for farmers to manage their agricultural land. However, an unwise use of pesticides can cause health problems, environmental pollution, and long-term disruption of the ecological balance (Hersanti, Santosa, & Dono, 2013). Therefore, the search for environmentally friendly alternative solutions to pest and pathogen control needs to be increased. One of the components in increasing agricultural productivity based on organic farming systems is pest control. Pests and pathogens are inhibiting factors in plant cultivation in Sawahan Village. The purpose of this community service activity was to increase the knowledge and skills of farmers in Sawahan Village, Donorejo District, Pacitan Regency, in making and applying bio-pesticides to control pests and pathogens in cultivated plants. The implementation of activities through the Regular Community Service Program (KKN) by the Community Service Institute (LPM) Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta 2022/2023 Odd Semester was to provide socialization and training in making bio-pesticides using materials found in the surrounding environment. The result of this community service showed that the people in Sawahan Village can develop knowledge related to bio-pesticides to help increasing the crop productivity so that the community can improve the existing organic farming systems.

Nano-Agrochemicals as Substitutes for Pesticides: Prospects and Risks.

This review delves into the mesmerizing technology of nano-agrochemicals, specifically pesticides and herbicides, and their potential to aid in the achievement of UN SDG 17, which aims to reduce hunger and poverty globally. The global market for conventional pesticides and herbicides is expected to reach USD 82.9 billion by 2027, growing 2.7% annually, with North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region being the biggest markets. However, the extensive use of chemical pesticides has proven adverse effects on human health as well as the ecosystem. Therefore, the efficacy, mechanisms, and environmental impacts of conventional pesticides require sustainable alternatives for effective pest management. Undoubtedly, nano-agrochemicals have the potential to completely transform agriculture by increasing crop yields with reduced environmental contamination. The present review discusses the effectiveness and environmental impact of nanopesticides as promising strategies for sustainable agriculture. It provides a concise overview of green nano-agrochemical synthesis and agricultural applications, and the efficacy of nano-agrochemicals against pests including insects and weeds. Nano-agrochemical pesticides are investigated due to their unique size and exceptional performance advantages over conventional ones. Here, we have focused on the environmental risks and current state of nano-agrochemicals, emphasizing the need for further investigations. The review also draws the attention of agriculturists and stakeholders to the current trends of nanomaterial use in agriculture especially for reducing plant diseases and pests. A discussion of the pros and cons of nano-agrochemicals is paramount for their application in sustainable agriculture.

Pengaruh Air Cucian Beras dan Air Mikroorganisme Lokal Terhadap Mortalitas Rayap Tanah

Subterranean termites (Coptotermes curvignathus) are dangerous termites compared to other types of termites because thay cause damage to crops in plantations and agriculture and have a wide distribution. The use of chemical pesticides causes pests to become resistant and harmful to the environment and health. Botanical pesticides are used as an alternative solution that is environmentally friendly by utilizing leri water and MOL water. This research aims to determine the effect of leri water and lokal microorganism ater (MOL) to control subterranean termites and to determine the optimal formulation as an anti-termite. The research method using 5 formulations of botanical pesticide, namely 100% leri water, 100% MOL water, 50% leri water : 50% MOL water, 75% leri water : 25% MOL water, 25% leri water : 75% MOL water and control (without formulation). Each test container contains 5 soldier termites and 20 worker termites and is given a filter paper test that has been soaked with a predeterminated formulation. Each treatment was replicated 3 times and observed every 24 hours for 72 hours. The results showed that all formulations had no effect on subterranean termite mortality.

GC-MS analysis of petroleum ether extract of Notothylas indica Kashyap for detecting compounds with antifeedant properties

Bryophytes are remarkable group of terrestrial plants that have several adaptations against biotic and abiotic stresses. They are a hoard of metabolites that provide protection against microbes and herbivores. Mostly bryophytes remain untouched by insect larvae as evident from the intact thallus. This can be attributed to the antifeedant compounds present in bryophytes. The current study aims at elucidating the various volatile compounds present in the petroleum ether extract of Notothylas indica and to determine the possible compounds that provide antifeedant properties. Altogether 154 compounds have been detected by GC MS analysis. 25 compounds showed a similarity of above 80 % with the NIST library and hence are evaluated for possible antifeedant activities. Insect/larval deterrent activity in N. indica may be due to compounds like 2-ethylnaphthalene, caryophyllene, phytol, beta-ionine, tridecane, undecane, tridecene. Since diverse chemicals are present in the extract with potential novelties, there are probabilities of more antifeedant compounds. Segregation and characterization of these chemicals can pave way for documentation of novel chemicals that can be used as antifeedants, thereby reducing the use of chemical pesticides in controlling pest.

Calcium stress reduces the reproductive capacity and pathogenicity of the pine wood nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus) by inhibiting oxidative phosphorylation reaction

The continuous use of chemical pesticides to control nematodes could result in the developing of pesticide-resistant nematodes. Novel nucleic acid pesticides are becoming the focus of pesticide research due to their strong specificity, high efficiency, and environmental friendliness. However, the limited known biochemical targets restrict the development of target pesticides for nematodes. The calcium stress experiments on pine wood nematodes (PWN) showed that 100 mmol/L Ca2+ resulted in longitudinal depression on the PWN body wall, reduced oviposition, and increased corrected mortality. To enrich the biological targets of nematode pesticides, we further investigated the response mechanism of PWN to calcium stress at the molecular level. Differentially expressed gene analysis showed that genes involved in the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) pathway were significantly enriched. RNA interference results of 6 key genes belonging to four mitochondrial complex I (BXNDUFA2), III (BXQCR8), IV (BXCOX17), V (BXV-ATPaseB, BXV-ATPaseE, BXV-ATPaseε) in non-stressed nematodes showed reduction in PWN oviposition, population size, feeding ability, and pathogenicity. The BXNDUFA2 gene interference had the highest inhibitory impact by decreasing the oviposition from 31.00 eggs to 6.75 eggs and PWN population size from 8.27 × 103 nematodes to 1.64 × 103 nematodes, respectively. Interestingly, RNA interference of these 6 key genes in calcium-stressed nematodes also led to increased mortality and decreased oviposition of PWN. In summary, calcium stress inhibited the reproductive capacity of PWN by down-regulating key genes BXNDUFA2, BXQCR8, BXV-ATPaseB, BXV-ATPaseE, BXV-ATPaseε, and BXCOX17, thereby reducing the pathogenicity. The current results enrich the RNAi targets in PWN and provide a scientific basis for developing novel nucleic nematicides.

Unlocking Eco-solutions: Analyzing parasitic disease resistance in Yellow River carp (Cyprinus carpio haematopterus) under different ecological treatments

Combatting parasitic diseases in intensive aquaculture is crucial for sustainable and healthy fish production. The use of chemical pesticides, although effective, poses environmental and public health risks. To address this issue, we investigated the impact of ecological treatments on the occurrence of parasitic diseases in intensive culture of Yellow River carp (Cyprinus carpio haematopterus) pond. A comprehensive survey was conducted in 160 ponds, and the data were collected through a normative questionnaire which included the main factors related to ecological management such as pond water sources and depth, stocking methods, whether or not mixed culture with carps, water quality adjustment and sediment operation methods. Whether parasitic diseases have happened was determined by combination of both field investigation and laboratory diagnostic methods. For assessment the relationship between ecological treatments and parasitosis occurrence, the data were analyzed using two methods, including univariate and multivariate logistic regressions. The final model revealed the influence of five significant ecological treatments (P < 0.05) on parasitosis occurrence in the ponds. The three ecological treatments significantly reduced disease occurrence, which were mixed culture with silver and/or bighead carp, maintaining water quality at intervals of ≤7 days, and aeration time > 10 h in 24 h. Additionally, utilizing underground water, avoiding sediment stirring increased the incidence of the parasitosis. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of appropriate ecological treatments in minimizing parasitic diseases in Yellow River carp, supporting sustainable aquaculture development.

Repurposing lead, nickel and cadmium resistant Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 in the effective inhibition of Spodoptera litura larvae: A mechanistic perspective

Pests are the major cause for decrease in crop productivity, due to infestation and intense feeding pattern. Use of chemical pesticides not only leads to resistance in pests but can also show residual toxicity. Therefore, in the current study lead, nickel and cadmium resistant Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 tested as a strong plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) was repurposed for its inhibitory effects against larvae of Spodoptera litura. Toxicity assessment was studied using leaf bioassay against larvae of S. litura and higher mortality rate of 93.33% was attained at 72nd hours upon augmentation with Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 which was found to be less in B. thuringiensis and pesticide with 83.33 and 53.33% respectively. There was a direct impact with reduction in the feeding of leaves while Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 was treated with larvae as compared to control with a significant statistical difference at p < 0.05. Histopathological analysis and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) micrographs revealed damage in the gut and breakages in brain. Presence of rod shaped bacteria on the gut surface with morphology similar to Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 was observed. Further combined plant-larvae study revealed the efficiency of potent PGPR strain to enhance the plant growth inhibiting the survivability of the targeted larvae. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) enzymatic activities was clearly found higher in plants as compared to larvae. Increased MDA content in larvae inferred the toxic effects of Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3. Similarly the plant infestations and colonization of bacteria was also visualized. Our findings suggests Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 to be an effective and potential substitute for pest control against larvae of S. litura.

Transformasi Pertanian: Memanfaatkan Limbah Kulit Bawang Merah Sebagai Pestisida Ramah Lingkungan dan Pupuk Organik yang Aman Bagi Petani

Problems that cannot be separated from the agricultural sector, especially in Kec. Percut Sei Tuan, Kab. Deli Serdang is the use of chemical pesticides in agriculture. The use of pesticides in agriculture can have positive and negative consequences for the environment and also the health of farmers. The abundance of onion skin waste is another way that can be optimized for its use as a standard ingredient for making organic pesticides. The aim of this research is to transform the use of chemical pesticides into organic pesticides. The practical method used in this journal is qualitative. Making pesticides from onion skin waste can be used to control pest attacks and rice plant diseases. Using onion skin waste as an environmentally friendly pesticide is a more sustainable alternative and has a smaller negative impact on the environment compared to using chemical pesticides.

Efficacy of essential oils from three Mentha species against postharvest groundnut pest, Caryedon serratus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)

Indiscriminate use of chemical pesticides has resulted in many negative implications including degradation of the ecosystem, contamination of food products and effect on non-target organisms. Biopesticides is an efficient and ecofriendly alternative to these synthetic pesticides. Herein, we explored the efficacy of plant-extracted essential oils as a natural alternative to manage groundnut pests. Essential oils extracted from three Mentha species (M. arvensis, M. piperita and M. spicata) were detected for their chemical composition, oviposition deterrence, repellency and electrophysiological responses in groundnut bruchid, Caryedon serratus (Olivier). Gas chromatographic analysis revealed menthol (M. arvensis: 30.43%, M. piperita: 30.18%) and carvone (M. spicata: 65.58%) as the most abundant component in essential oils. Among all the four tested concentrations for the three mentha oils the most significant oviposition deterrence was seen in M. spicata (2% v/w) which completely inhibited oviposition followed by 1.5% M. piperita (21 ± 1.53; p < 0.01), 1.5% M. spicata (28 ± 0.58; p < 0.01) and 1.0% M. arvensis (35 ± 0.58; p < 0.01) oil treated groundnuts after 24 h. M. piperita (86%, ♀) and M. arvensis (70%, ♀) showed promising repellence against the females. In contrast, M. spicata was found to be a potent (90%, ♂) male repellent during olfactometer bioassays. Coupled gas chromatography electroantennogram (GC-EAG) revealed consistent sensory deflections in the antennae of female C. serratus from all the three oils. Our findings revealed promising oviposition deterrence and repellent properties of these mentha oils which offers a prospect in developing effective repellent and its application in integrated pest management, safety of human health, environment and agricultural productivity.

Incidence and Population Dynamics of Various Associated Insect-pests of Late Direct Sown Paddy, Oryza sativa L. at Gajapati, Odisha

Background: Rice is the most important staple food of the world. Rice production is now-a-days reduced due to insect pest attacking to the crop in various growing stages. There are more than 1400 pest species, which are cause great menace to the rice cultivation. Incidences and abundance of pests in rice is growing day by day due to climatic change and excess use of chemical pesticides. In late direct sown paddy is also facing the insect pest problems in different growing stages. The study aimed to layout the different pest’s incidence and population dynamics as well, on various stages of direct sown paddy. The knowledge of incidence timing for various pests can be further utilized for the suitable management. Methods: The present study has been conducted during the late Kharif seasons of 2021-22 for 11 most widely grown paddy cultivars of farmers field around the locality of MS Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha. The surveyed cultivars were Anjali, Arize 8433, BAM-6, Bhuban, Chandra, CR Dhan 100, Varsha Dhan, CR Dhan 306, Sumit, Luna Sankhi and Vandana, respectively. These cultivars were surveyed for the abundance of various associated insect-pests at two different crop growth stages. Result: The results revealed that the incidence of various pests namely Scirpophaga incertulus, Orseolia oryzae, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis, Parapoynx stagnalis, Dicladispa armigera, Leptocorisa acuta, Grasshoppers, Nezara virdula, Nephotettix virescens, Melantis leda and Mythimna separate was found to be significant for both the growth stages. The maximum population on late direct sown rice was found to be of Scirpophaga incertulus (3.67) and Orseolia oryzae (2.67) at the vegetative stage of rice while pests such as Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (6.34), Leptocorisa acuta (7.34) and Mythimna separate (5.67) were recorded maximum during the milking stage of rice.

Advanced pesticide nano formulations and understanding their breakdown by Bacteria

The widespread use of chemical pesticides in agriculture has undeniably caused significant environmental harm, affecting the quality of air, water, and soil. This growing concern has steered the focus towards the development and research of nano formulations, which promise effective pest control with substantially reduced pesticide concentrations. These new formulations, which allow for controlled delivery of active ingredients, are demonstrating effectiveness comparable to traditional pesticides, but with less environmental impact. However, it is important to acknowledge that these nano-pesticides still contain certain organic groups which are structurally complex and not easily degradable. These elements can persist in the environment, accumulating and becoming more concentrated through the food chain, potentially causing a range of environmental hazards over time. Encouragingly, research has identified that specific bacterial genera including , and and among others, have the unique ability to break down certain chemical groups present in these pesticides, using them as a sole source of carbon or nitrogen. This process transforms them into non-harmful end products, marking a promising step towards bioremediation. Currently, efforts are being made to develop this into a viable large-scale solution, exploring different combinations of nano-pesticides and bacteria strains under optimized conditions. Through further research in this area, we aim to identify the specific types of bacteria that are most effective in degrading these pesticide groups, ultimately paving the way for more sustainable environmental management in the future.