Harmful Pests Research Articles

All Roads Lead to Rome: Pathways to Engineering Disease Resistance in Plants.

Unlike animals, plants are unable to move and lack specialized immune cells and circulating antibodies. As a result, they are always threatened by a large number of microbial pathogens and harmful pests that can significantly reduce crop yield worldwide. Therefore, the development of new strategies to control them is essential to mitigate the increasing risk of crops lost to plant diseases. Recent developments in genetic engineering, including efficient gene manipulation and transformation methods, gene editing and synthetic biology, coupled with the understanding of microbial pathogenicity and plant immunity, both at molecular and genomic levels, have enhanced the capabilities to develop disease resistance in plants. This review comprehensively explains the fundamental mechanisms underlying the tug-of-war between pathogens and hosts, and provides a detailed overview of different strategies for developing disease resistance in plants. Additionally, it provides a summary of the potential genes that can be employed in resistance breeding for key crops to combat a wide range of potential pathogens and pests, including fungi, oomycetes, bacteria, viruses, nematodes, and insects. Furthermore, this review addresses the limitations associated with these strategies and their possible solutions. Finally, it discusses the future perspectives for producing plants with durable and broad-spectrum disease resistance.

A New Era in Federal Quarantine and State Certification Diagnostics at Clean Plant Centers in the USA.

Quarantine and certification programs exist to prevent the entry or spread of harmful pests and pathogens into agricultural systems. Their common objective is to identify pathogen-free source material through the application of validated testing methods for subsequent release for propagation. Tests must be accurate, efficient and cost-effective. In recent decades, the best tests have been biological assays in conjunction with PCR testing. High throughput sequencing (HTS) has now become a reliable and cost-effective diagnostic method having greater accuracy and efficiency than biological assays. In this article, we review the role of clean plant centers in quarantine and certification programs, as well as the process by which HTS was evaluated as a testing method to replace biological assays for screening source material. The data from this evaluation included a side-by-side comparison of HTS and biological assays for cultivars of grapevine, Prunus and rose, and intra- and inter-laboratory validations of an HTS protocol. Based on the results of these evaluations, in 2021 USDA-APHIS and several state regulatory agencies accepted the use of HTS and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to test new introductions of source material, replacing biological indexing. This new protocol requires testing at two timepoints within at least a six-month interval and a dormancy separating the two tests. Under ideal conditions, testing can be completed in 18-24 months with subsequent release from quarantine of plant material that has tested negative for regulated pathogens. This new testing protocol has a profound impact on quarantine and certification programs, facilitating quicker access of stakeholders to clean materials for propagation and increasing the number of pathogens that are detected, and even discovered, with reduced cost, effort, and time.

Farmland Birds and their Importance in Agro ecosystem: A Review

Avian fauna provide a variety of functions, including predators, pollinators, scavengers, seed dispersers, pests controller, nutrient cycling, ecosystem engineers, and many others. Birds play important ecological and economic functions however they are sometimes overlooked simply because of a lack of knowledge. However, as bird populations drop globally, so do the ecological advantages given by these species. To support bird conservation, this review study focuses on the role of birds in the agro-ecosystem and their benefits to humans. Biodiversity databases and existing literature were reviewed to establish baseline information on farmland bird species and their preferences. Searches were limited to articles published between 2005 to 2024. Healthy bird populations and habitats would help to safeguard a variety of ecological functions, ultimately benefiting human health. Farmland birds are disappearing. Due to the widespread use of pesticides, lack of habitat, birds and other animals are disappearing and unnecessary harmful pest species are increasing and the agricultural environment is deteriorating. So, this review paper tries to emphasize on urgent conservation measures that are necessary for the protection of agricultural birds which are essential for the health of both natural and agricultural environments.

Rapid screening for resistance to Sitobion avenae (F.) and Rhopalosiphum padi (L.) in winter wheat seedlings and selection of efficient assessment methods.

Sitobion avenae (F.) and Rhopalosiphum padi (L.) are harmful pests of wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.)]. No genetic resistance against the aphids has been identified in commercial wheat varieties and resistance phenotyping can be time-consuming and laborious. Here, we tested a high-throughput phenotyping method to screen 29 commercial winter wheat varieties for alate antixenosis and antibiosis. We validated this method using comprehensive behavioural analyses, including alate attraction to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and a feeding bioassay using an electrical penetration graph (EPG), subsequently highlighting possible sources of resistance. We observed differences in alate behaviour upon assessing alate settlement on wheat seedlings and attraction towards VOCs, revealing the importance of visual and early post-alighting cues for alate host selection. Aphid settlement was four times higher on the most preferred variety than on the least preferred variety. Using an EPG bioassay, we identified phloem feeding and stylet derailment parameters linked to resistance. We found antibiosis assessment on detached leaves to be an inadequate screen because it produced results inconsistent with intact leaves assessment. Alate and nymph mortality were identified as key traits signifying antibiosis, showing significant positive relationships with alate reproduction and nymph mean relative growth rate. Overall, antixenosis and antibiosis varietal responses were consistent for both aphid species. Alate settlement on wheat seedlings was a more efficient antixenosis screen than an olfactometer assay using VOCs. In addition to assessing alate and nymph survival for antibiosis, this allows for more rapid phenotyping of large numbers of genotypes to identify novel aphid resistance genes for varietal improvement. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

The symbiont Acinetobacter baumannii enhances the insect host resistance to entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae

Major symbiotic organisms have evolved to establish beneficial relationships with hosts. However, understanding the interactions between symbionts and insect hosts, particularly for their roles in defense against pathogens, is still limited. In a previous study, we proposed that the fungus Metarhizium anisopliae can infect the brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens, a harmful pest for rice crops. To expand on this, we investigated changes in N. lugens’ intestinal commensal community after M. anisopliae infection and identified key gut microbiotas involved. Our results showed significant alterations in gut microbiota abundance and composition at different time points following infection with M. anisopliae. Notably, certain symbionts, like Acinetobacter baumannii, exhibited significant variations in response to the fungal infection. The decrease in these symbionts had a considerable impact on the insect host’s survival. Interestingly, reintroducing A. baumannii enhanced the host’s resistance to M. anisopliae, emphasizing its role in pathogen defense. Additionally, A. baumannii stimulated host immune responses, as evidenced by increased expression of immune genes after reintroduction. Overall, our findings highlight the significance of preserving a stable gut microbial community for the survival of insects. In specific conditions, the symbiotic microorganism A. baumannii can enhance the host’s ability to resist entomopathogenic pathogens through immune regulation.

Past, present and future of the two-spotted stink bug (Perillus bioculatus) in Europe revealed by citizen science

The introduction of the Nearctic predaceous stink bug species, (Perillus bioculatus) was attempted multiple times in various countries throughout Europe to mitigate the damage caused by the invasive and harmful pest species, the Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata). Though these attempts were thought to be unsuccessful for decades, more recent data elucidated that the species have established small self-sustaining populations in the Balkans Peninsula, Southern Russia, and Türkiye and recently began to expand. In the past years, the European range of the species reached Eastern Europe. After the first individuals were found in Hungary in October 2023 a citizen science campaign was launched to investigate the distribution of the species in the country. By June 2024 it became evident that the species is established throughout the country. Furthermore, observations regarding beetle larvae and moth caterpillars as alternative prey were reported supporting the previous assumptions that the naturalization and expansion of the species in Europe is facilitated by dietary drift. Here, we summarize the knowledge on the European presence of the two-spotted stink bug and formulate hypotheses regarding its future distribution and the impact of the species on the insect communities of the newly colonized areas.

Prevalence of Wolbachia infection in field natural population of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae).

Obligate endosymbiont bacteria associated with insects are naturally providing their hosts with essential nutrients such as vitamins and amino acids and biological services including protection from pathogens. In this study, we aimed to investigate the presence of Wolbachia infection among males and females of the parasitic apricot seed wasp (ASW) Eurytoma samsonowi Vassiliev (Vassiliev Petrograd 11: 1-15, 1915) (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae), a very harmful pest of apricot (Prunus armeniaca), in the oasis of Gafsa, Southern-West of Tunisia. The detection of Wolbachia infection was assessed based on the amplification of the Wolbachia surface protein (wsp) gene and a multilocus sequence typing (MLST) as a universal genotyping tool for Wolbachia involving the analyses of genes gatB, coxA, hcpA, fbpA, and ftsz. Confirming the screening results, Wolbachia was detected in the natural apricot wasp for the first time, with a significant difference between males (5%) and females (59%) based on wsp gene. All Wolbachia strains identified in E. samsonowi were clustered among supergroups B of Wolbachia.

The responses of weed communities to field nutrients and their ecological benefits in rice fields: A review

AbstractWhile traditionally perceived as yield‐reducing elements in rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivation, weed communities in paddy fields play a crucial role in the ecosystem. These communities, when selectively retained, can significantly enhance ecosystem services. This review examines the impact of various weed communities on rice in different paddy fields, their response to field nutrients, and the ecological benefits they offer. These benefits include nitrogen retention, promotion of microbial diversity, and reduction of diseases, pests, and weed proliferation. Examples of such benefits are seen in weeds like Lemna minor L. and Azolla imbricata (Roxb.) Nakai, which help in nitrogen fixation and act as biocontrol agents against harmful pests. However, current research in this area faces challenges, including the lack of intelligent and precise weed control technologies, comprehensive green control strategies, and expertise in weed management. Our findings suggest a strategic approach to weed control in paddy fields, emphasizing the importance of preserving weed species that have minimal impact on rice yields but offer significant ecological advantages. These practices can lead to grass‐mediated weed control and enhanced nutrient absorption, thereby reducing fertilizer loss. Ultimately, this approach could reduce the reliance on chemical fertilizers and herbicides in paddy fields, laying the groundwork for greener rice cultivation and sustainable agricultural practices.

Overexpression of SmUGGT1 Confers Imidacloprid Resistance to Sitobion miscanthi (Takahashi).

Sitobion miscanthi, the main species of wheat aphids, is one kind of harmful pest. Chemical insecticides are the important agrochemical products to effectively control wheat aphids. However, the broad application has led to serious resistance of pests to several insecticides, and understanding insecticide resistance mechanisms is critical for integrated pest management. In this study, SmUGGT1, a new uridine diphosphate (UDP)-glycosyltransferase (UGT) gene, was cloned and more strongly expressed in the SM-R (the resistant strain to imidacloprid) than in the SM-S (the susceptible strain to imidacloprid). The increased susceptibility to imidacloprid was observed after silencing SmUGGT1, indicating that it can be related to the resistance to imidacloprid. Subsequently, SmUGGT1 regulated post-transcriptionally in the coding sequences (CDs) by miR-81 was verified and involved in the resistance to imidacloprid in S. miscanthi. This finding is crucial in the roles of UGT involved in insecticide resistance management in pests.

First insight on the genetic base of the heritable variation of Pacific abalone (Haliotis discus hannai) resistance to Polydora hoplura infestation

Polydora hoplura is an invasive species and a harmful pest in commercial shellfish aquaculture, particularly for farmed abalone species. Different lines of treatment for Polydora affecting abalone have been explored, but with limited success. Using selective breeding to increase abalone resistance to and reduce shell damage from Polydora infestation could be a promising alternative. However, in abalone there is currently no information on the genetic variability for resistance to Polydora infestation. In the present study, heritability (h2) of traits associated with Pacific abalone resistance to P. hoplura were estimated after challenging abalone juveniles with trojan abalones heavily infested, using a nested experimental design, with 1 male crossed with 2–4 females. The heritability values were low but significant for some of those traits: survival h2=0.09; Infestation Intensity at Q50h2 = 0.16 ± 0.11; and the proportion of the shell area occupied by blisters caused by the mud-worms h2 = 0.29 ± 0.14. These results suggest a significant potential for improving resistance or tolerance to P. hoplura infestation through selective breeding in Pacific abalone.

Trypsin-encoding gene function of efficient star polycation nanomaterial-mediated dsRNA feeding delivery system of Grapholita molesta.

Grapholita molesta is an important and harmful fruit pest worldwide, with widespread feeding hosts. Trypsin, an indispensable hydrolytic digestive protease in the insect gut, is crucial in digestion, growth and development. We analyzed the characteristics of the trypsin-encoding genes, screened for the optimal dose of RNAi mediated by nanocarriers, and investigated various indices of larval growth and development of G. molesta. Gut content (GC) and RNase A degraded double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), with a faster degradation rate at higher concentrations. Star polycation (SPc) nanomaterials protected dsGFP from degradation by anion-cation binding and did not migrate through agarose gel. The key conserved motifs of the trypsin-encoding genes were similar, exhibiting high homology with those in other lepidopteran insects. An interference efficiency of ≈70% was achieved with SPc nanomaterial-mediated RNA interference with 0.05 μg dsRNA. The efficiency of continuous interference was stable. Trypsin activity, body weight of 8-day-old larvae, pupal weight and emergence rate were significantly reduced, and the larval stage was significantly prolonged. The investigated trypsin gene is a key target gene in the growth and development of G. molesta. We investigated the efficiency and convenience of feeding SPc nanomaterials in a functional study of insects. Our results provide valuable data for the development of efficient trypsin-targeting pesticides. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Frontiers in bacterial-based green synthesized nanoparticles (NPs): A sustainable strategy for combating infectious plant pathogens

The excessive use and inappropriate application of synthetic pesticides on essential agricultural crops, intended to them from harmful pests, have resulted in severe environmental pollution. Additionally, the penetration of these toxic pesticide residues into the edible parts of plants has raised significant health concerns for humans and animals by developing respiratory problems, neurological disorders, and cancers. In response, nanotechnology has emerged as a promising alternative, enabling the development of highly reliable, minuscule nanoparticles (NPs) in size of 1–100 nm (nm) with diverse morphologies. These NPs offer an alternative approach to managing plant pathogens compared to traditional pesticides. Although various synthetic NPs have been produced using different elements, their persistence in plant tissues, soil, and water presents significant challenges. Conversely, the synthesis of biologically-derived green NPs, particularly those from bacteria, is considered a safer method for controlling plant pathogens. Bacteria-based green NPs are advantageous due to the rapid growth proliferation of bacteria and their resilience to extreme conditions. However, their synthesis and application remain limited, with scant research exploring against infectious plant pathogens. This study reviews recent literature on the synthesis of bacteria-based NPs, detailing their morphological, structural, chemical, optical, electronic, electrical, and magnetic properties, along with their thermal characteristics. By elucidating the mechanisms by which these NPs combat phytopathogens, this research provide crucial insight for future applications, enhancing our understanding of bacteria-based NPs research. The wealth of recent research on bacteria-based green NPs is anticipated to enrich future applications and deepen our understanding of this emerging field.

Studying the effectiveness of Jatropha carcus L. Extract as a repellent, antifeedant, and toxic substance against red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus Ferrugineus) adult insects in Saudi Arabia

ObjectiveRed palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, is a highly harmful pest that causes severe damage to date palm trees. The detrimental influence of RPW on date palm trees cannot be ignored and must be addressed. Chemical insecticides are available for controlling RPW; however, the insect population has become resistant to these chemicals, leading to damage and spread to new areas. The present investigation examined the impacts of physic nut (Jatropha curcas L.) seeds essential oils (PNEO) on laboratory-reared RPWs adult insects reared in a controlled laboratory environment. MethodsThe insecticidal, repellent, and antifeedant potentials of different doses (10, 20, 30, 40, 50%) of PNEO were tested against RPW. The insecticidal activity of J. curcas seeds oil extracts was assessed using topical application and feeding methods. ResultsRPW showed a high mortality rate when J. curcas seeds oil was applied topically after 24 h (P < 0.05). The mortality (%) of insects was 8, 76, 92, 96, and 100 for 10 %, 20 %, 30 %, 40 %, and 50 % concentrations, respectively. The LC50 and LC90 were 16.50 %, and 28.14 %, respectively. Results from the feeding method demonstrated a significant increase in mortality with a 100 % mortality rate at higher concentrations of PNEO compared to 10 and 20 % concentrations (P < 0.0001). The LC50 and LC90 were 24.42 % and 31.30 %, respectively. There was no significant decrease in food consumption and the antifeedant index when 10 % and 20 % of J. curcas seeds oil were used on the 3rd and 6th day after application. All J. curcas oil concentrations showed a repellent effect significantly higher than the controls (P < 0.05). ConclusionJ. curcas seeds oil has shown potential insecticidal and repellent effects against RPW, and it could provide an eco-friendly tool for RPW pest management.

Bio-efficacy of mustard seed extracts against Bihar hairy caterpillar Spilosoma obliqua (Erebidae: Lepidoptera) & assessment of mustard allelo-chemicals in response to mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi (Aphididae: Hemiptera) infestation

Mustard seed contains glucosinolate-myrosinase system of substrate-enzyme metabolism, accompanied with compartmentalized cells. Upon rupture, enzyme myrosinase leads to breakdown of glucosinolates and its metabolized products like allyl, benzyl, phenyl type of isothiocyantes and many other types like nitriles are released. The myrosinase activity is tested in three globally utilized different seed coat color mustards viz., brown mustard (Brassica juncea), white mustard (Sinapis alba) and black mustard (Brassica nigra) to demonstrate the release of glucosinolates which are known to deter insect pests. Aqueous seed extracts of these mustard types were subjected to anti-feedant activity analysis and oil extracted from these mustard seeds was subjected to insecticidal activity analysis against Spilosoma obliqua 4th instars on castor leaves. Meanwhile, the mustard leaves in open field were allowed for natural aphid infestation during early months from January to March. Thereafter, the leaf twigs of white, black and brown mustard, infested and uninfested by aphids, were collected and myrosinase activity of plants was analyzed with varying levels of important pest inflicted biochemicals in plant, viz., Total phenols, ortho-dihydric phenols and flavonols. Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry analysis of mustard oil used in insecticidal activity was performed to elucidate the role of biochemicals involved in action. These compounds along with fatty acids and sterols compounds are known to have anti-feedant & insecticidal activities. Aqueous extract components were also subjected to total glucosinolate analysis, spectrophotometrically for knowing their concentration, with highest in brown (85.81 µmol/g) followed by black (59.32 µmol/g) and lowest in white mustard (47.63 µmol/g). The amount of glucosinolates, free fatty acids & sterol compounds present in different coat color mustard seed types are being correlated here with their potential bioactivities against biological plant pests. Bio-control of potentially harmful insect pests is possible by utilizing anti-feeding & insecticidal potential of mustard seed extracts.

Targeting mosquito X-chromosomes reveals complex transmission dynamics of sex ratio distorting gene drives

Engineered sex ratio distorters (SRDs) have been proposed as a powerful component of genetic control strategies designed to suppress harmful insect pests. Two types of CRISPR-based SRD mechanisms have been proposed: X-shredding, which eliminates X-bearing sperm, and X-poisoning, which eliminates females inheriting disrupted X-chromosomes. These differences can have a profound impact on the population dynamics of SRDs when linked to the Y-chromosome: an X-shredder is invasive, constituting a classical meiotic Y-drive, whereas X-poisoning is self-limiting, unable to invade but also insulated from selection. Here, we establish X-poisoning strains in the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae targeting three X-linked genes during spermatogenesis, resulting in male bias. We find that sex distortion is primarily driven by a loss of X-bearing sperm, with limited evidence for postzygotic lethality of female progeny. By leveraging a Drosophila melanogaster model, we show unambiguously that engineered SRD traits can operate differently in these two insects. Unlike X-shredding, X-poisoning could theoretically operate at early stages of spermatogenesis. We therefore explore premeiotic Cas9 expression to target the mosquito X-chromosome. We find that, by pre-empting the onset of meiotic sex chromosome inactivation, this approach may enable the development of Y-linked SRDs if mutagenesis of spermatogenesis-essential genes is functionally balanced.

How monoterpene hydrocarbons could be an alternative insecticide for effective control of Lepidoptera defoliators?

In Tunisia, Orgyia trigotephras (Lepidoptera, Erebidae) is considered among the most harmful pests for forests that cause significant damage to kermes oak and its maquis. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the insecticidal effect of essential oils of Eucalyptus camaldulensis, E. kirtoniana, Thymus algerienis and T. capitatus toward the 3rd instar larvae of O. trigotephras. The chemical composition of essential oils was studied using GC-MS. Different concentrations of essential oils were used for contact action and compared to synthetic insecticide deltamethrin as a reference product. The insecticidal effects of the essential oils were evaluated by measuring the lethal time of 50% of larvae (LT50) and the lethal time of 100% of larvae (LT100). Eucalyptus essential oils were found effective when compared with the essential oil of Thymus spp. and deltamethrin. Their high toxicity may be attributed to their richness in monoterpenes hydrocarbons. Compounds belonging to monoterpenes hydrocarbons may constitute an alternative insecticide for controlling Lepidoptera defoliators outbreaks.

Modeling insect growth regulators for pest management.

Insect growth regulators (IGRs) have been developed as effective control measures against harmful insect pests to disrupt their normal development. This study is to propose a mathematical model to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of IGRs for pest management. The key features of the model include the temperature-dependent growth of insects and realistic impulsive IGRs releasing strategies. The impulsive releases are carefully modeled by counting the number of implements during an insect's temperature-dependent development duration, which introduces a surviving probability determined by a product of terms corresponding to each release. Dynamical behavior of the model is illustrated through dynamical system analysis and a threshold-type result is established in terms of the net reproduction number. Further numerical simulations are performed to quantitatively evaluate the effectiveness of IGRs to control populations of harmful insect pests. It is interesting to observe that the time-changing environment plays an important role in determining an optimal pest control scheme with appropriate release frequencies and time instants.

Sensory Acceptance, Microbiological, and Nutritional Properties of a Sausage-like Meat Product Produced with Partial Inclusion of Rhynchophorus palmarum Larvae

Rhynchoporus palmarum is widely considered to be a harmful pest of many crops. Nevertheless, it is highly valued as a food source in some countries, providing valuable components, mainly protein and fatty acids. The aim of this study was to develop a sausage with partial incorporation of R. palmarum larvae and to explore its potential as an alternative ingredient, taking into account the sensory acceptance of the final product, as well as nutritional and microbiological aspects. Experimental formulations containing 30, 20, and 10% larvae (F1, F2, F3, respectively) partially replaced pork meat and vegetable fat, and a control (F0) without R. palmarum larvae. One hundred and fifty semi-trained panelists rated the taste, aroma, color, texture, and overall acceptability of the four formulations using a 5-point hedonic scale. F2 showed favorable sensory acceptance for taste, color, texture, and overall acceptability, with no significant statistical difference from F0, but aroma showed a significantly better score than F0. Nutritional data showed increasing patterns for energy, fat, and sodium, while decreasing values for cholesterol, protein, and total carbohydrate for F1, F2, and F3, respectively. The microbiological characteristics of the experimental formulations for aerobic plate count, E. coli count, S. aureus, and Salmonella spp. met the requirements of the Ecuadorian standard NTE 1338:2012 for cooked meat products. This research highlights the potential of Rhynchophorus palmarum larvae as a viable and sustainable option for partial meat substitution in sausage production, offering an innovative approach to improve nutritional value and diversify product offerings in the food industry.

Virulence Bioassay of Entomopathogenic Fungi against Adults of Atta mexicana under Controlled Conditions

Leafcutter ants (Atta spp.) are one of the mos t economically harmful pests in agriculture, considered dominant in the Neotropics and South America. Mature colonies of A. mexicana have a great economic impact on Mexico’s agriculture. Microbial agents in the form of biopesticides are an effective component of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies and may present a better alternative to synthetic insecticides. Among the fungi most used as biological insecticides there are Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of the entomopathogenic fungi B. bassiana and M. anisopliae of commercial origin and a native strain of B. bassiana from México (MA-Bb1) on adults of Atta mexicana under controlled conditions. In the bioassay, five formulations and a control group were tested (B. bassiana MA-Bb1, B. bassiana MA-Bb1+ Diatomin®, B. bassiana®, M. anisopliae®, Diatomin®, and Tween 80 (0.01%). The MA-Bb1+ Diatomin® biopreparation induced the highest mortality (100%) in four-week-old A. mexicana, followed by the MA-Bb1, M. anisopliae®, and B. bassiana® biopreparations, which caused mortality of 83.33%, 73.98%, and 68.70%, respectively. Treatments containing B. bassiana and M. anisopliae were efficient in controlling A. mexicana under controlled conditions. The most efficient biological control was achieved with the B. bassiana fungus and Diatomin®, which presented the highest total death rate in A. mexicana 96 h post infection, in contrast to the control group (Tween 80), which attained the lowest speed of death in the present investigation.

Multi-baiting YATLORf sex pheromone traps to optimize click beetle (Agriotes spp., Coleoptera: Elateridae) monitoring for low-cost IPM of wireworms

Implementation of IPM in arable crops requires affordable monitoring tools. YATLORf traps baited with a synthetic pheromone lure for a target species have proven to be effective for monitoring Europe’s most harmful soil pests: Agriotes spp. After the suitable lure position for each of the main Agriotes species was ascertained, different combinations of lures in the same trap were studied in various European countries. Trials were carried out between 2001 and 2007, with the traps being arranged in blocks. Each block contained one trap per treatment under study (i.e., traps baited with a single species lure and traps baited with combinations of two or more different species lures). Unlike most of the research outputs on sex pheromone lures (e.g., on Lepidoptera species), the results of this research have clearly shown that lures for many Agriotes species can be combined in the same trap without loss of performance against most species. Two clear exceptions were A. sputator and A. rufipalpis, which were sensitive to the presence of the geranyl octanoate in lures for other species. It was possible to multi-bait a trap, i.e., use up to four different lures (A. brevis, A. sordidus, A. litigiosus, and A. ustulatus) with good results, thus demonstrating for the first time that important soil pest species belonging to the same genus can be monitored with multi-baited sex pheromone traps. Multi-baiting the same trap resulted in significantly reduced monitoring costs.