Evolution Of Pesticide Resistance Research Articles

Evolution of Pesticide Resistance in Predator/Prey Systems

Evolution of pesticide resistance in predator/prey systems was studied by computer simulation. Intensive pesticide use caused rapid resistance development in the prey (pest) but either suppressed resistance development in the predator (natural enemy) or caused local extinction of the predator. Reduced pesticide use slowed resistance development in the prey and promoted resistance development in the predator. When an economic threshold criterion for pesticide application was used and the pesticide was more toxic to prey than to predators, prey resistance was retarded due to reduced pesticide application. Augmentation of the predator's food supply promoted resistance in the predator. Reduced pesticide use is viewed as an essential component of resistance management that can enhance the potential for integration of biological and chemical pest control.

Evolution of pesticide resistance in apple pests and their natural enemies

Evolution of pesticide resistance in 24 apple pest and natural enemy species was simulated with a computer model. Population ecology parameters were varied among species while physiological, biochemical and genetic assumptions were held constant. There was good agreement between the model's predictions and observed historical patterns of azinphosmethyl resistance among pests and natural enemies. Correspondence between predicted and observed was improved by assuming that natural enemies evolved resistance only after their prey/hosts became resistant, but not by assuming greater initial susceptibility in natural enemies. Results suggest that ecological factors may be important in determining rates of resistance evolution.