Red Mite Research Articles

Point mutations in the voltage-gated sodium channel gene conferring pyrethroid resistance in China populations of the Dermanyssus gallinae.

Dermanyssus gallinae, the poultry red mite (PRM), is a worldwide ectoparasite posing significant economic challenges in poultry farming. The extensive use of pyrethroids for PRM control has led to the emergence of pyrethroid resistance. The objective of this study is to detect the pyrethroid resistance and explore its associated point mutations in the voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) gene among PRM populations in China. Several populations of D. gallinae, namely CJF-1, CJP-2, CJP-3, CSD-4 and CLD-5, displayed varying degrees of resistance to beta-cypermethrin compared to a susceptible field population (CBP-5). Mutations of VGSC gene in populations of PRMs associated with pyrethroid resistance were identified through sequencing its fragments IIS4-IIS5 and IIIS6. The mutations I917V, M918T/L, A924G and L925V were present in multiple populations, while no mutations were found at positions T929, I936, F1534 and F1538. The present study confirmed the presence of extremely high levels of pyrethroid resistance in PRM populations in China, and for the first time detected four pyrethroid resistance mutations in the VGSC gene. Identifying pyrethroid resistance in the field population of PRM in China can be achieved through screening for VGSC gene mutations as an early detection method. Our findings underscore the importance of implementing chemical PRM control strategies based on resistance evidence, while also considering the management of acaricide resistance in the control of PRMs. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

OUTCOMES OF PHYTOSANITARY MONITORING IN THE CITRUS PLANTATIONS OF ADJARA-GURIA

Phytosanitary monitoring conducted in 2023 across citrus plantations in the Adjara-Guria region in Georgia indicated an unfavorable situation. The damage caused by mites was particularly severe, with the citrus rusty (silver) mite (Phyllocoptruta oleivorus Ashm.) and the citrus red mite (Panonychus citri McGregor) observed at the highest intensity (3 points). Both old and younger plants were found to be infested by these pests. A widespread distribution of scale insects was also recorded, including the citrus rust mite (P. oleivorus Ashm.), citrus red mite (P. citri McGregor), yellow scale (Aonidiella citrina Coq.), citrus mussel scale (Lepidella beckii Newman), Japanese maple scale (Lopholeucaspis japonica Cockerell), tortoise wax scale (Ceroplastes japonicus Green), wax scale (Ceroplastes sinensis Del Guercio), brown soft scale (Coccus hesperidum L.), cottony camellia scale (Pulvinaria floccifera Westwood), citrus cottony scale (Pulvinaria aurantii Cockerell), citrus whitefly (Dialeurodes citri Ashm.), citrus blackfly (Aleurocanthus woglumi Ashby), woolly whitefly (Aleurothrixus floccosus Maskell), and citrus spiny whitefly (Aleurocanthus spiniferus Quaintance). The citrus blackfly, citrus spiny whitefly, and woolly whitefly were identified as particularly problematic. In Georgia, they are registered as quarantine pests.. KEYWORDS :Citrus, Mites, Monitoring, Pest, Scale insects

First Report of Tetranychus truncatus Ehara (Acari: Tetranychidae) Infesting Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in India through Morphological and Molecular Insight

Background: Red spider mite, Tetranychus truncatus Ehara (Acari: Tetranychidae) infests many agriculture and horticulture crops in India, but to date it had not been found damaging cultivated groundnut. During 2022-23, the incidence of this species was high in many groundnut growing regions of Tamil Nadu. Identification of the species is highly essential for effective management of the particular pest. Hence, the aim of this research was to identify the mite species infesting groundnut crop and describe the damage caused. Methods: Survey was carried out all over Tamil Nadu and samples of mite infested groundnut leaves were collected from field based on damage symptoms, observed and examined under Stereo zoom microscope, microslides were prepared using Hoyer’s medium and taxonomic characters were studied under phase contrast microscope. Molecular analysis was done by genomic DNA isolation, PCR amplification, sequencing and BLAST performed to check the identity with GenBank Sequences. ITS2 primer was used. Result: Red spider mite species, T. truncatus was identified first time in groundnut through both morphological characters and molecular tools. Female: Idiosomal setae longer than the interval between their longitudinal bases and gradually tapers distally. Diamond- shaped pattern of striae between e1 and f1 setal bases. Tarsus I with 4 tactile setae proximal to proximal duplex setae. Male: Aedeagus with tiny terminal knob, apparently truncate with a slight indentation on the dorsal margin.

Overexpression of a nuclear receptor HR96 contributes to spirodiclofen susceptibility in Panonychus citri (McGregor)

The citrus red mite, Panonychus citri, is one of the most notorious and devastating citrus pests around the world that has developed resistance to multiple chemical acaricides. In previous research, we found that spirodiclofen-resistant is related to overexpression of P450, CCE, and ABC transporter genes in P. citri. However, the regulatory mechanisms of these detoxification genes are still elusive. This study identified all hormone receptor 96 genes of P. citri. 8 PcHR96 genes contained highly conserved domains. The expression profiles showed that PcHR96h was significantly upregulated in spirodiclofen resistant strain and after exposure to spirodiclofen. RNA interference of PcHR96h decreased expression of detoxification genes and increased spirodiclofen susceptibility in P. citri. Furthermore, molecular docking, heterologous expression, and drug affinity responsive target stability demonstrated that PcHR96h can interact with spirodiclofen in vitro. Our research results indicate that PcHR96h plays an important role in regulating spirodiclofen susceptibility and provides theoretical support for the resistance management of P. citri.

Metabolomic responses of tea [Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze] leaves to red spider mite [Oligonychus coffeae (Nietner)] and tea mosquito bug [Helopeltis theivora Waterhouse] infestation: a GC–MS-based study

BackgroundThe tea plant, Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze, is an evergreen leafy plant whose tender leaves are used in the manufacturing of the world’s second most consumed beverage—tea. The production and consumption of tea worldwide have continually increased over the decades. All parts of the plant—leaf, stem, root, flower and seed, are fed upon by insect pests. This study elucidates the metabolomic changes occurring in tea leaves in response to infestation by two major pests in tea gardens: red spider mites and tea mosquito bugs. These pests significantly impact both the quantity and quality of tea production. The secondary metabolites produced by the tea due to pest attack has been analysed using GC–MS analysis in the laboratory.ResultsMostly fatty acid derivatives were biosynthesized as secondary metabolites due to pest attack as revealed from the result. In both infestations, methyl stearate was found to be produced along with increased chromatographic peaks of compounds such as caffeine, methyl palmitate, methyl linoleate, and stigmasta-7,25-dien-3-ol. In comparison with respective control samples (leaf with no pest attack), the one attacked by red spider mite showed eighteen exclusive metabolites, whereas tea mosquito bug infested leaf showed six such exclusive metabolites.ConclusionsSome metabolites were found to be either increased or decreased in their amount in both the samples. The increased compounds were reported with insecticidal and pesticidal properties with respect to respective controls. Some metabolites were markers of pest attacks i.e. plant defense mechanism induced phytochemicals according to the literature as discussed in this research.

Effect of Methyl Jasmonate on the Performance of Tetranychus evansi Baker & Pritchard, 1960 (Acari: Tetranychidae) and Phytoseiulus longipes Evans, 1968 (Acari: Phytoseiidae) on Tomato Plants

Inducible anti-herbivore defenses in plants are predominantly regulated by jasmonic acid (JA). The red spider mite Tetranychus evansi Baker & Pritchard, 1960 (Acari: Tetranychidae) is an invasive pest known for its detrimental impact on tomato plants and other Solanaceae crops. Here, we investigated the extent to which T. evansi and the predatory mite Phytoseiulus longipes Evans, 1968 (Acari: Phytoseiidae) are affected by induced JA-defenses. Initially, we artificially induced the JA-response in tomato plants using exogenous methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and subsequently assessed the effect of JA defenses on spider mite by evaluating mortality and oviposition rates. Our findings revealed a higher mortality and lower oviposition rates on plants treated with MeJA compared to non-treated control plants. Furthermore, we examined the predatory mite's predation rates on spider mite eggs produced on MeJA-treated and non-treated tomato plants. The results showed a reduced predation on T. evansi eggs derived from MeJA-treated plants, indicating a potential negative impact of JA-induced defenses on the predator's performance. Finally, we released five predatory females on T. evansi-infested tomato plants treated and non-treated with MeJA, monitoring the predator population density for three generations. Predator population was not affected, as the abundance of larvae and adults was not significantly different between treatments. These findings underscore the negative impact of JA defenses on herbivores and highlight the trade-off it may pose on natural enemies.

One health approach to study human health risks associated with Dermanyssus gallinae mites

Despite the significant health risks associated with Dermanyssus gallinae infestations in humans, they are often overlooked. This study investigated a household case of D. gallinae infestation and explored the resulting clinical manifestations and risk of infection in family members. Microfluidic PCR was employed for high-throughput screening of pathogens in collected mites and blood samples from both chickens and family members. Morphological and molecular examinations confirmed the identity of the mites as D. gallinae sensu stricto (s.s.), with evidence indicating recent blood feeding. Results indicated that the mites exclusively harbored various pathogens, including Bartonella spp., Ehrlichia spp., Apicomplexa, and Theileria spp. Blood samples from family members and poultry tested negative for these pathogens, suggesting a potential reservoir role for D. gallinae. The study further identified haplotypes of D. gallinae, classifying them into D. gallinae s.s., cosmopolitan haplogroup A. Serological analysis revealed elevated IgE seroreactivity against mite proteins in the family member with bite lesions. Antibodies against Bartonella spp. were detected in this individual, indicating exposure to the pathogen. In summary, this study sheds light on the clinical manifestations, pathogen detection, and genetic characterization of D. gallinae infestations, underscoring the necessity of adopting comprehensive approaches to manage such infestations effectively.

Influence of abiotic factors on diapause termination and temperature requirements for postdiapause development in the European red mite, Panonychus ulmi (Acari: Tetranychidae).

The European red mite Panonychus ulmi (Koch) is widely distributed and it can severely affect pome fruit crops, particularly apple. Pest outbreaks are related to an overuse of non-selective pesticide treatments that lead to the development of resistance and the absence of natural enemies in the orchard. A key aspect to optimize the use of pesticide treatments in the context of IPM is to increase the knowledge on the biology and ecology of the pest to better predict population dynamics and outbreaks. For the European red mite, knowledge on the conditions that lead to diapause breaking by winter eggs is essential to model population dynamics. To increase this knowledge, winter eggs were collected during field surveys in northen Spain during three years and egg hatching was monitored under controlled temperature and photoperiod conditions in the laboratory. The "number of days exposed to cold temperatures" was the most significant factor that positively affected hatching of overwintering eggs. The time required for 50% of the egg population to hatch (T50%) was also negatively modulated by the duration of exposure to cold temperature. The temperature threshold for postdiapause eggs development collected from the field was estimated between 5 and 6 ºC in 2005 and 2007, respectively. Moreover, the degree-days required for post diapause development were estimated between 263.2 and 270.3, depending on the year of collection. Collectively, we provide additional information on the diapause termination and postdiapause development of the European red mite that may effectively contribute to optimize pest population models.

Are predatory mites effective as biological control agents to suppress Oligonychus ilicis (Acari: Tetranychidae) in blueberry plantings?

Southern red mite, Oligonychus ilicis McGregor (Acari: Tetranychidae), is an important polyphagous spider mite pest that causes economic damage to many ornamentals, coffee, and fruit crops. Blueberry growers in the Southeastern United States, including Florida and Georgia, have experienced severe losses due to outbreaks of O. ilicis. Predatory mites are an important management tool used for controlling spider mites; however, predators have not been studied and successfully evaluated in blueberry systems. Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot, Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot, and Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) are among the most economically important arthropod agents used in augmentative biological control worldwide. To evaluate the potential of these 3 commercially available predatory mites for use in blueberry plantings, we conducted experiments under controlled laboratory conditions and in the greenhouse. In preliminary laboratory experiments, P. persimilis and N. californicus significantly reduced the number of O. ilicis motile stages below those found in the untreated control, indicating the potential for these 2 predatory mite species to suppress O. ilicis populations. Amblyseius swirskii did not perform well controlling O. ilicis motiles in the laboratory. Under greenhouse conditions, N. californicus and P. persimilis significantly reduced the number of eggs after 7 days of release and the number of motile stages after 14 days of release. This is the first report of using phytoseiid mites to suppress O. ilicis in blueberry systems in the United States. Further studies on predator behavior, feeding preferences, and acaricide compatibility with predators are required to investigate the possibility of using P. persimilis, and N. californicus as biological control agents of O. ilicis in blueberry systems.

Molecular detection of Bartonella spp. in bat-associated macronyssid mites (Acari: Macronyssidae) from Southern and Southeastern Brazil.

Despite the worldwide occurrence and high genetic diversity of Bartonella spp. in bats, few studies investigate their occurrence in bat-associated mites. To date, 26 species of Macronyssidae mite species have been reported from Brazil, and 15 of which were found parasitizing bats. The present study aimed to investigate the presence of Bartonella DNA in bat-associated macronyssid mites from Brazil. For this purpose, 393 macronyssid specimens were selected by convenience from the tissue bank of the Acari Collection of the Instituto Butantan (IBSP). These mites were collected from 14 different bat species in three different Brazilian States (Minas Gerais, Paraná, and Rio de Janeiro). Out of 165 mites positive in the PCR for the endogenous 18S rRNA gene, only eight were positive in the qPCR for Bartonella spp. based on the nuoG gene, and we were able to obtain two sequences base in this same gene, and one sequence based on the 16S rRNA gene. The phylogenetic inference based on the nuoG gene grouped the obtained sequences with Bartonella genotypes previously detected in bats and associated bat flies, while the phylogeny based on the 16S rRNA grouped the obtained sequence in the same clade of Bartonella genotypes previously detected in Dermanyssus gallinae. These findings suggest that macronyssid mites might be associated with the maintenance of bartonellae among bats.

Spatial Distribution of Dermanyssus gallinae Infestations in Greece and Their Association with Ambient Temperature, Humidity, and Altitude.

Dermanyssus gallinae, the poultry red mite (PRM), is the most prevalent and harmful ectoparasite of laying hens globally. Although prevalence and risk factor studies can help veterinarians make decisions regarding farm treatments, relevant data are scarce. The present study investigated the prevalence and infestation severity of PRM in poultry farms across Greece and examined potential risk factors. AviVet traps were used to sample 84 farms (51 backyard, 33 industrial) over three years. Farm altitude, temperature, humidity, region, and production systems were assessed as potential risk factors with chi-square tests, initially for all the studied farms and then exclusively for backyard farms. The overall prevalence was 75.0% and was higher in backyard farms (80.4%) compared with industrial ones (66.7%), varying regionally from 66.7 to 90.9%. Altitude and temperature were not significant risk factors, but farms with humidity <60% had a lower infestation risk. Infestation severity did not significantly differ by risk factors. The poultry red mite is highly prevalent across Greek poultry production systems and regions. In the future, global warming, reduced acaricide options, and a ban on cage systems will all threaten a wider spatio-temporal distribution of the PRM, justifying the urgent need for effective monitoring and control methods to protect hen production and welfare and workers' health.

Effect of Mammea americana Aqueous Extract on the Control of the Coffee Red Spider Mite

The coffee red spider mite, Oligonychus ilicis, stands out as one of the main pests of Conilon coffee. The use of synthetic chemical control has led to an increase in the population of this mite and a reduction in its natural enemies. Aiming to find viable alternatives, this study aimed to evaluate the acaricidal potential of “abricó” peel extract, Mammea americana, in the management of O. ilicis. Each treatment consisted of 7 repetitions, with 10 individuals per repetition. They were placed in Petri dishes (10.0 x 1.2 cm), containing coffee leaf disks (4 cm diameter) inside, and moistened cotton at the bottom of the dish and around the disks. The peels of M. americana were dried, crushed, and diluted in aqueous solution to obtain extracts at concentrations of 2; 2.57; 3.30; 4.24; 5.45; and 7 %. The application was done by spraying, using an Alfa 2 model airbrush connected to a compressor calibrated with a constant pressure of 1.3 psi. 1 mL of solution of each concentration was applied for each repetition. Distilled water and the surfactant Tween® 80 (0.05 % v/v) were used as control treatments. The acaricidal effect was evaluated 24, 48, and 72 hours after spraying, and the lethal concentrations LC50 and LC90 were calculated. The results of the toxicity tests indicated an increase in the mortality of O. ilicis with the increase in the concentrations of aqueous extracts of M. americana, resulting in 100 % mortality. The LC90 was estimated at 3.83 %. In the chemical analysis of the M. americana extract, the presence of phenolic acids, tannins, and flavonoids was observed at concentrations of 39.150, 40.783, and 0.0349 mg-1, respectively. We conclude that the aqueous extract of M. americana peels demonstrated acaricidal potential in a controlled environment for the coffee red spider mite.

SEMENTES DE MAMÃO EM DIFERENTES ESTÁGIOS DE DESENVOLVIMENTO SÃO EFICAZES NO CONTROLE DO ÁCARO VERMELHO DA PALMEIRA?

Objective: To evaluate the acaricidal potential of papaya fruit seed (C. papaya L.) extracts at different phenological stages of development on the red palm mite. Methods: Extracts from green and ripe seeds, diluted at different concentrations, were sprayed on adult mites in a completely randomized design using Petri dishes with discs of dwarf coconut leaf. The acaricidal effect was assessed at intervals of 12 hours up to 72 hours after spraying. Results and Conclusion: The mortality of Roiella indica was proportional to the increase in extract concentrations for both green and ripe papaya fruit seeds. It was concluded that aqueous extracts from green and ripe papaya fruit seeds exhibit acaricidal activity against adult red palm mites under laboratory conditions. Research Implications: Papaya seeds at different stages effectively controlled red palm mites under laboratory conditions. Originality/Value: This research contributes by exploring the potential of an agricultural residue as a pest control agent in agriculture and demonstrating its potential for more sustainable agricultural practices.

Predation of Raoiella indica (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) by Stethorus tridens Gordon (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

The red palm mite (RPM), Raoiella indica Hirst (Acari: Tenuipalpidae), is an invasive species in several American countries and has a wide range of hosts, causing significant damage, mainly to coconut and banana crops. Previous studies conducted in America have focused on the biological control of RPM through predatory mites and insects. Stethorus tridens Gordon (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is considered a promising biocontrol agent of phytophagous mites it has been observed on several cultures, and has a high predatory capacity. The aim of this study was to investigate S. tridens preferences among different developmental stages of RPM and estimating the functional and numerical responses of S. tridens over its most preferred prey-stage. Furthermore, the prey preference of S. tridents was examined between eggs of Tetranychus evansi Baker and Pritchard (its natural prey) and eggs of RPM through two-choice and non-choice experiments. The results showed that S. tridens prey on all developmental stages of RPM, with a marked preference for eggs over other stages of RPM. The functional response of this predator was type III, as consumption increased rapidly at intermediate egg densities. Predation on RPM eggs was unable to stimulate S. tridens reproduction, even at the highest densities. When we compared the food preference of S. tridens to eggs of T. evansi and RPM, we found that the predator preferred tetranychids. The results of this study suggested that RPM can be used as alternative prey to S. tridents, serving as a source of energy and allows for maintenance but not its reproduction.

Study on the Population Density of Insect Pests of Broccoli, Brassica Oleracea, in the Jadiriyah Area of Baghdad, Iraq

A field study was conducted in the fields of the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences at the University of Baghdad in Al-Jadriya during the 2018 agricultural season. The objective was to survey the population densities of pests affecting broccoli (Brassica oleracea). The results revealed that the broccoli plants in the open field were affected by various pests. On September 24, the highest density of two-spotted red mite (Tetranychus urticae) eggs reached 35 eggs per leaf. On November 12, the highest density of mite nymphs was recorded at 28 nymphs per leaf. The leaf miner, Liriomyza sativae, exhibited the highest density of 23 tunnels per leaf on September 17. Additionally, the highest density of whitefly nymphs (Bemisia tabaci) was observed on October 1 and November 17, reaching 29 nymphs per leaf. The results also indicated the presence of the aphid lion, Chrysoperla carnea, as a natural enemy. Furthermore, the parasitoid Diglyphus isaea was found on the leaf miner, while the parasitoid Eretmocerus mundus was identified on the whitefly. Therefore, understanding the species of pests and their density attacking agricultural crops is crucial. This knowledge allows for the release of natural enemies in the field to mitigate pest infestations.

Identification and Functional Characterization of an Omega-Class Glutathione S-Transferase Gene PcGSTO1 Associated with Cyetpyrafen Resistance in Panonychus citri (McGregor).

Cyetpyrafen is a recently developed acaricide. The citrus red mite, Panonychus citri (McGregor), has developed significant resistance to cyetpyrafen. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the cyetpyrafen resistance in P. citri remains unclear. Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) play a critical role in arthropod pesticide resistance. This study showed that GSTs were potentially related to the resistance of P. citri to cyetpyrafen through synergistic experiments and enzyme activity analysis. An omega-family GST gene, PcGSTO1, was significantly up-regulated in the egg, nymph, and adult stages of the cyetpyrafen-resistant strain. Additionally, silencing of PcGSTO1 significantly increased the mortality of P. citri to cyetpyrafen and recombinant PcGSTO1 demonstrated the ability to metabolize cyetpyrafen. Our results indicated that the overexpression of PcGSTO1 is associated with cyetpyrafen resistance in P. citri, and they also provided valuable information for managing resistance in P. citri.

The Poultry Red Mite, Dermanyssus gallinae, travels far but not frequently, and takes up permanent residence on farms

Management of Dermanyssus gallinae, a cosmopolitan hematophagous mite responsible for damage in layer poultry farming, is hampered by a lack of knowledge of its spatio-temporal population dynamics. Previous studies have shown that the circulation of this pest between farms is of strictly anthropogenic origin, that a mitochondrial haplogroup has been expanding on European farms since the beginning of the 21st century and that its local population growth may be particularly rapid. To refine our understanding of how D. gallinae spreads within and among farms, we characterized the genetic structure of mite populations at different spatial scales and sought to identify the main factors interrupting gene flow between poultry houses and between mitochondrial haplogroups. To this end, we selected and validated the first set of nuclear microsatellite markers for D. gallinae and sequenced a region of the CO1-encoding mitochondrial gene in a subsample of microsatellite-genotyped mites. We also tested certain conditions required for effective contamination of a poultry house through field experimentation, and conducted a survey of practices during poultry transfers. Our results confirm the role of poultry transport in the dissemination of mite populations, but the frequency of effective contamination after the introduction of contaminated material into poultry houses seems lower than expected. The high persistence of mites on farms, even during periods when poultry houses are empty and cleaned, and the very large number of nodes in the logistic network (large number of companies supplying pullets or transporting animals) undoubtedly explain the very high prevalence on farms. Substantial genetic diversity was measured in farm populations, probably as a result of the mite's known haplodiploid mode of sexual reproduction, coupled with the dense logistic network. The possibility of the occasional occurrence of asexual reproduction in this sexually reproducing mite was also revealed in our analyses, which could explain the extreme aggressiveness of its demographic dynamics under certain conditions.

Vitellogenin and its upstream gene TOR play essential roles in the reproduction of Dermanyssus gallinae

In Dermanyssus gallinae, a hematophagous mite, the initiation of vitellogenesis induced by blood feeding is essential for its reproduction. However, the precise gene structures and physiological functions of Vg in D. gallinae and its upstream gene, Target of Rapamycin (TOR), have not been fully understood. This study revealed the presence of four homologous genes within D. gallinae, named Dg-Vg1, Dg-Vg1-like, Dg-Vg2, and Dg-Vg2-like, especially, Dg-Vg2-like was firstly identified in the mites. The expression levels of all these Vg genes were significantly higher in adult females than other stages. Following blood feeding, the expression levels of these genes increased significantly, followed by a subsequent decrease, aligning with egg production. Silencing Dg-Vgs by RNA interference (RNAi) led to decreased fecundity and egg hatching rates, as well as abnormal embryonic development, suggesting a vital role for Dg-Vgs in both egg formation and embryonic development. Furthermore, the knockdown of Dg-TOR significantly reduced the expression of Dg-Vgs and negatively impacted the reproductive capabilities of PRMs, indicating that TOR influences PRM reproduction by regulating the expression of Dg-Vgs. In summary, these findings demonstrated the crucial roles of Dg-Vgs and Dg-TOR in PRM reproduction, highlighting their potential as targets for pest control.

Exogenous Methyl Salicylate treatment increases tomato zingiberene levels and decreases infestation of adult whiteflies and red spider mites

Exogenous Methyl Salicylate treatment increases tomato zingiberene levels and decreases infestation of adult whiteflies and red spider mites

Role OF KIT-6 on the fungicide and pesticide activities of zinc, copper and magnesium oxide nanoparticles prepared using Camellia sinensis extract (tea plant) through green synthesis

Nanoparticles have contributed to the society in many ways. They are of great use in various fields, such as semiconductors, medicine, cosmetics, agriculture, electronics, automobiles, catalysis, biosensors, paints etc. Magnesium, copper and zinc oxide nanoparticles have been synthesized from Camellia sinensis (tea) leaf extract in an environmentally friendly way. Surface morphology, phase identification and elemental analysis of the prepared metal oxide nanoparticles were carried out by SEM, powder XRD and EDAX analyses, respectively. The prepared metal oxide nanoparticles were tested for their fungicidal activity against the fungi pestalotiopsis theae, which causes grey blight disease, and pesticide activity against the pest oligonychus coffeae, which causes red spider mites disease in plants, particularly in tea plants. The effect of mesoporous KIT-6 on the pesticide activity of the prepared nanoparticles was also studied. The increased pesticidal property of the nanoparticles is correlated with the meso structures and properties of KIT-6. The bio efficacy of these metal oxide nanoparticles against the selected fungus and pest is discussed and compared in detail.