Integrated Pest Management Research Articles

Identification and biophysical characterization of potential phytochemical inhibitors of carboxyl/choline esterase from Helicoverpa armigera for advancing integrated pest management strategies

In the realm of disease vectors and agricultural pest management, insecticides play a crucial role in preserving global health and ensuring food security. The pervasive use, particularly of organophosphates (OPs), has given rise to a substantial challenge in the form of insecticide resistance. Carboxylesterases emerge as key contributors to OP resistance, owing to their ability to sequester or hydrolyze these chemicals. Consequently, carboxylesterase enzymes become attractive targets for the development of novel insecticides. Inhibiting these enzymes holds the potential to restore the efficacy of OPs against which resistance has developed. This study aimed to screen the FooDB library to identify potent inhibitory compounds targeting carboxylesterase, Ha006a from the agricultural pest Helicoverpa armigera. The ultimate objective is to develop effective interventions for pest control. The compounds with the highest scores underwent evaluation through docking studies and pharmacophore analysis. Among them, four phytochemicals—donepezil, protopine, 3′,4′,5,7-tetramethoxyflavone, and piperine—demonstrated favorable binding affinity. The Ha006a-ligand complexes were subsequently validated through molecular dynamics simulations. Biochemical analysis, encompassing determination of IC50 values, complemented by analysis of thermostability through Differential Scanning Calorimetry and interaction kinetics through Isothermal Titration Calorimetry was conducted. This study comprehensively characterizes Ha006a-ligand complexes through bioinformatics, biochemical, and biophysical methods. This investigation highlights 3′,4′,5,7-tetramethoxyflavone as the most effective inhibitor, suggesting its potential for synergistic testing with OPs. Consequently, these inhibitors offer a promising solution to OP resistance and address environmental concerns associated with excessive insecticide usage, enabling a significant reduction in their overuse.

Monitoring of Larinus spp. (Coleoptera Curculionidae) infesting cardoon and development of a binomial sampling plan for the estimation of Larinus cynarae infestation level in Mediterranean conditions

The cultivation of cardoon, Cynara cardunculus var. altilis, for multi-purpose uses has increased substantially in recent decades. However, in some cardoon growing areas, the production of achenes is threatened by several insects, especially the weevils Larinus cynarae and Larinus scolymi. Due to the lack of specific monitoring and sampling programs for these pests, the aims of this work were to test the reliability of chromotropic traps for adult Larinus spp. monitoring and to develop binomial sequential sampling plans to assess the infestation level of L. cynarae in cardoon cultivations in a Mediterranean area. Field observations were conducted in two different cardoon growing areas in Sardinia (Italy) in 2019 and 2020. Purple- and red-colored cross-vane traps, placed at 1 m and 2 m above the ground, were utilized for monitoring Larinus spp. adults, and binomial sequential sampling plans were developed for L. cynarae based on the count of egg masses on flower heads for sample sizes of 30, 40, 50, 60, and 70 flower heads. The purple traps at 2 m above the ground were effective in monitoring L. scolymi, whereas red and purple traps were ineffective in monitoring L. cynarae adults at both 1 m and 2 m above the ground. Among different binomial sampling plans, a sample size of 70 flower heads is needed to obtain reliable estimates of L. cynarae infestations at or above 25% of infested flowers. Our findings constitute a baseline for the development of an integrated pest management program for the control of Larinus spp. infestations in cardoon-growing areas in Mediterranean environment.

Actuation Drones in Agriculture: Advancing Precision Pest Management through Biocontrol and Modern Techniques

As global food demand surges, agricultural technology is essential for addressing challenges like environmental degradation, pollution, and water scarcity. Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), present a promising solution for precision agriculture by providing real-time, accurate data that enhances decision-making in crop management. In pest control, drones offer targeted delivery of natural enemies and biopesticides, improving efficiency and reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. This precision can lead to increased crop yields, reduced environmental impact, and improved livelihoods for farmers by lowering operational costs and optimizing resource use. Despite their potential, adopting drone technology in agriculture faces regulatory challenges, such as the need for certifications, flight restrictions, and operational guidelines. Addressing these regulatory hurdles is crucial for broader implementation. Moreover, collaboration among stakeholders—including researchers, policymakers, agricultural extension workers, and industry players—is vital for advancing drone-assisted pest management and ensuring its practical adoption in diverse farming environments. As we navigate these challenges, actuation drones hold immense promise for transforming pest management practices globally, contributing to sustainable agriculture and enhanced food security. Further research, development, and stakeholder engagement are necessary to fully realize the potential of drones in integrated pest management (IPM) systems.

Influence of Insecticide Application on Pollinators and Predatory Arthropods in Watermelon Agroecosystem

This study, conducted from January to April 2021 in Kandavara village, Karnataka, examined the effects of various insecticides on honeybees, spiders, and coccinellids in watermelon crops. Using a randomized complete block design, watermelon plants were treated with insecticides when pest populations reached economic thresholds. Honeybee foraging activity and populations of spiders and coccinellids were monitored before treatment and at 3,7 and 10 days post-application. Results showed that untreated control plots consistently had the highest activity of all beneficial insects. Among the insecticides tested, Spinosad 45 SC was the least harmful, with relatively higher levels of honeybee and natural enemy activity. In contrast, Imidacloprid 17.8 SL and Acephate 75 SP were the most detrimental, resulting in significantly lower activity levels for honeybees, spiders, and coccinellids. These findings highlight the importance of selecting insecticides that minimize harm to beneficial insects, emphasizing the need for integrated pest management practices that balance effective pest control with the preservation of essential ecosystem services.

Sex-linked differences in semiochemical-mediated movement by Trogoderma variabile Ballion and Trogoderma inclusum LeConte (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) after exposure to long-lasting insecticide-incorporated netting

Stored product insects are highly mobile and present in the landscape and can disperse by tracking odors of food and pheromones. A novel preventative integrated pest management (IPM) tactic to intercept dispersing insects of durable commodities (e.g., packaged goods, flour, bulk commodities), is a long-lasting insecticide-incorporated netting (LLIN) containing 0.4% deltamethrin. However, it is unknown how exposure to the deltamethrin-based LLIN (LLIN hereafter) may affect olfaction and orientation to important semiochemicals by stored product insects. In this study, our aims were to evaluate whether exposure to LLIN affected male and female (or mixed sex) populations of Trogoderma variabile and T. inclusum movement in the presence of important semiochemicals, including food kairomones and pheromones, including the major sex pheromone for Trogoderma spp. (e.g., (Z)-14-methyl-8-hexedecenal). We evaluated this with a video-tracking protocol and confirmed volatile emissions with headspace collection coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Disruption in movement in this study is taken to mean a significant upregulation or downregulation in response compared to our netting without active ingredient (control). Distance moved increased 4–6-fold in T. variabile after exposure to LLIN compared to control netting, while it was reduced by a third to a half in T. inclusum. Overall, out of 40 possible olfactory and taxis patterns which could be disrupted, exposure to LLIN interrupted 68–73% of these in T. inclusum and T. variabile, respectively, compared to control netting-exposed individuals. Pheromonal stimuli were more important for males, but food and pheromones were equally important for females. Our research suggests the use of LLIN may enhance the effectiveness of other behaviorally-based management strategies when used as part of a comprehensive IPM program for these short-lived adults.

Significance Of Information Sources To Integrated Pest Management Usage Among Poultry Farmers In Kwara State, Nigeria

Sources of information on the use of combined pest control measures for a sustainable ecofriendly environment are germane in poultry production. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 120 respondents using an interview schedule. Data collected on socioeconomic characteristics, sources of information, pest prevalence, constraints, and utilisation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in Kwara State were analysed with percentages, frequency, weighted mean score, mean, Chi-square, and Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation at α 0.05. The result shows that respondents were members of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) (96.7%) with mean age and years of business experience were 43.0±9.9 and 7.3±5.8years respectively. Most of the respondents had tertiary education (84.2%) and produced broilers (51.7%) in four cycles a year (57.5%). The most utilized IPM information sources were from co-farmers (68.3%) and workshops (67.5%); with the most prevalent pest being flies (x̅=1.48) and was low for 54.2% of the respondents. The respondents’ most utilised IPM method was the prompt elimination of dead birds from the flock (x̅=2.86) which was high for 60%. However, respondents’ most prominent constraint to IPM usage was the government’s insufficient pesticide subsidy (x̅=2.69); and was high for 60.0%. A significant relationship existed between respondents’ IPM usage and sources of information like family (X2=0.938; p=0.005) and internet (X2=1.000; p=0.000); years of education attainment (r=0.022; p=0.021), prevalent pest (r=0.577; p=0.051) and constraints to IPM usage (r=0.186; p=0.012). IPM information sources positively influence its utilisation, hence such sources should be empowered by the relevant stakeholders for a sustainable eco-friendly environment.

Selected farm-level crop protection practices in Europe and Argentina: Opportunities for moving toward sustainable use of pesticides

Extensive use of plant protection products (PPP) in the last decades contributes to negative impacts on ecosystems, animals and humans. For the strategies of PPP reduction and replacement of hazardous pesticides, farm-level data on agronomic management practices and crop protection applications are crucial. In this study, we strategically collected data for the 2021 season at the SPRINT project case study sites (CSS) in 10 European countries and Argentina, on perennial, arable and vegetable crops. Data collection included strategically selected farm and field data, pesticide records and farming practices. Results involved more than 1700 recorded PPP applications across various crops with more than 170 different active substances from PPP in organic, integrated pest management and conventional farming practices. We explored differences in application patterns (fungicides, insecticides, herbicides and non-PPP, e.g. adjuvants, growth regulators, and fertilizers) between and within crops, countries and farming systems and calculated the costs of PPP use. The pesticide dosages applied during the crop season varied up to a factor of 20 around recommended doses. Regarding the costs of PPPs use perennial crops had the highest costs per ha crop production area. Finally, we analysed the active substances applied in different farming systems in terms of their hazard statements. Our results shed light on how PPPs are used across different crop and farming types and will help elucidate how pesticide application patterns can be changed in the future. Finally, we highlighted non-PPP use practices which help to reduce dependency on PPP use. This might be used to support decision-making and policies within agricultural advisory/support systems.

Predicting possible distribution of rice leaf roller (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis) under climate change scenarios using MaxEnt model in China

The relationship between climate conditions and pest life is a key determinant of their distribution. Cnaphalocrocis medinalis Guenee, a major rice pest, exhibits outbreaks and its distribution patterns closely linked to meteorological factors. By using 244 actual distribution and occurrence data of C. medinalis along with 8 bioclimatic data, and employing the MaxEnt model and ArcGIS, combined with the latest SSPs climate scenario data, this study evaluated the risk region distribution status in the current period and predicted changes in China from 2040 to 2100. The results indicate that an overall increase in the risk area for C. medinalis, particularly under SSP245 scenario during 2040–2060. While Low-risk areas are expected to decrease, Medium and High-risk areas are projected to increase significantly, with worsening pest infestations anticipated in southern Hubei, eastern Hunan, most of Jiangxi, central Fujian, northern Guangdong, and southern Jiangsu. Regions such as central Liaoning are expected to reach the minimum survival standard for C. medinalis in future, leading to the northward shift in risk areas. Difference plots highlighted areas of increased and decreased suitability, providing actionable insights for policymakers. Regions with increased suitability align with the predicted northward shift of many agricultural pests, necessitating enhanced monitoring, specific pest control measures, and updated agricultural policies to address changing risk profiles. Additionally, the centroid analysis showed a northwest shift direction in future, primarily located at the junction of Shaoyang City and Loudi City, situated around 27–28 °N degrees north latitude and 111–113 °E. The study underscores the significant impact of climate change on the distribution of rice leaf roller, providing valuable insights for agricultural planning and management. The northward and westward expansion of risk areas necessitates adaptive strategies to mitigate potential impacts on agriculture. Enhanced monitoring, integrated pest management, and the development of pest-resistant crops are essential for addressing future challenges posed by climate change.

Insect Pest Management and Environmental Risk.

Insect pests and insect pest management tactics impose risks to the environment. Environmental risk assessment is a formalized paradigm for the objective evaluation of risk in which assumptions and uncertainties are clearly presented. Therefore, a better understanding of the environmental risks and especially the comparative risks posed by insect pests and management tactics will improve integrated pest management. Risk assessments for insect pest management tactics are much more common for pesticides and genetically engineered crops than for biological control, cultural control, and semiochemicals. The reasons for this discrepancy include evidence of deleterious effects and data availability for pesticides and genetically engineered crops, public perceptions of tactics, and politics. Regardless of the regulatory oversight and frequency of risk assessments, all tactics should be subject to the risk assessment paradigm to assist in societal decisions.

Polygenic, autosomal, and stable spirotetramat resistance in Chrysoperla carnea resulting in increased fitness.

Green lacewing, Chrysoperla carnea (Stephens) is a generalist predator used as a biological control agent in agro ecosystems. In order to use chemical and biological control in an integrated way, it is advantageous to know about natural enemy resistance response to a selected chemical. To determine C. carnea spirotetramat resistance potential, a population collected from the field was selected in the laboratory. Then we determined how spirotetramat resistance was inherited and how much it impacts the fitness of C. carnea. After eighteen selections with spirotetramat, the selected population (Spiro-Sel) of C. carnea had a 47-fold of resistance when compared to an UNSEL population. Inheritance results showed that spirotetramat resistance was inherited as an autosomal, incompletely dominant and polygenic trait. The values of effective dominance decreased from 0.87 (incomplete dominant) to 0.00 (complete recessive) as the concentration of spirotetramat increased from 625 mg/L to 10000 mg/L. The Spiro-Sel strain had no cross resistance to chlorfenapyr (1.10-fold), deltamethrin (1.26-fold) and chlorpyrifos (1.27-fold). After 7 generations without selection pressure resistance to all experimental insecticides in the Spiro-Sel strain was stable. Fitness data of the Spiro-Sel, Cross A, Cross B, UNSEL and susceptible strains of C. carnea showed that spirotetramat resistance increased the fitness of the selected green lacewing population. Life history parameters like fecundity, net reproductive rate, and relative fitness of the Spiro-Sel strain significantly increased when compared to the susceptible or unselected strains of C. carnea. These findings show that C. carnea is a perfect candidate for integrated pest management (IPM) programmes that combine biological control methods with selective pesticide applications to manage a variety of insect pests. Additionally, it would reduce the possibility of pests developing pesticide resistance despite repeated applications. It would be an excellent choice for widespread releases and be effective in most spray programs.

A Review on Various Components as an Effective Pest Management Tool under Integrated Pest Management of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

A Review on Various Components as an Effective Pest Management Tool under Integrated Pest Management of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

Eriophyid mites in fruit crops: Biology, ecology, molecular aspects, and innovative control strategies

Eriophyid mites, minute arachnids within the family Eriophyidae, pose significant threats to fruit crops globally, leading to substantial economic losses in agriculture. This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the intricate biology, ecology, molecular aspects, and innovative control strategies of these pervasive pests. Eriophyid mites exhibit a complex life cycle and reproductive strategy, with their habitat preferences and distribution heavily influenced by environmental factors and host-plant interactions. Advances in molecular biology have provided more profound insights into their genetics and interactions at the molecular level, revealing crucial information for developing targeted pest management strategies. Control strategies for eriophyid mites encompass chemical methods, such as applying acaricides and understanding resistance mechanisms, as well as biological control using natural predators and parasitoids. Cultural and physical control methods, including crop rotation and mechanical removal, play vital roles in integrated pest management (IPM). Emerging approaches like RNA interference (RNAi) and semiochemical-based controls offer promising alternatives for sustainable pest management. This review underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach to effectively manage eriophyid mite infestations, integrating traditional and novel strategies. Future research should focus on overcoming current challenges, enhancing the efficacy of control methods, and further exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying mite-plant interactions

Disease Management in Regenerative Cropping in the Context of Climate Change and Regulatory Restrictions.

Regenerative agriculture as a term and concept has gained much traction over recent years. Many farmers are convinced that by adopting these principles they will be able to address the triple crisis of biodiversity loss, climate change, and food security. However, the impact of regenerative agriculture practices on crop pathogens and their management has received little attention from the scientific community. Significant changes to cropping systems may result in certain diseases presenting more or less of a threat. Shifts in major diseases may have significant implications regarding optimal integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that aim to improve profitability and productivity in an environmentally sensitive manner. In particular, many aspects of regenerative agriculture change risk levels and risk management in ways that are central to effective IPM. This review outlines some of the challenges, gaps, and opportunities in our understanding of appropriate approaches for managing crop diseases in regenerative cropping systems.

Age‐stage, two‐sex life table and transcriptome analysis reveal the adaptation of Liriomyza trifolii to different host plants

AbstractLiriomyza trifolii (Burgess) (Diptera: Agromyzidae) is a polyphagous insect that is widely known for its invasiveness. Understanding the adaptation of L. trifolii to different host plants is critical in formulating effective approaches for integrated pest management (IPM). In this study, the effects of various host plants on L. trifolii were investigated by age‐stage, two‐sex life tables and transcriptome analysis. Our results show that the growth rate of immature L. trifolii on sponge gourd increased significantly relative to bean, but mortality was high. Mature L. trifolii adapted to sponge gourd had significantly increased longevity as compared to flies adapted to bean but exhibited reduced fecundity. The net reproductive rate, the intrinsic rate of increase, and the finite rate of increase of L. trifolii adapted to sponge gourd were significantly lower than those of flies adapted to bean. Transcriptome analysis showed the presence of 150 up‐ and 617 downregulated differentially expressed genes in L. trifolii adapted to sponge gourd as compared to flies adapted to bean. Genes encoding glutathione‐S‐transferase, cytochrome P450, and trypsin were significantly downregulated in L. trifolii adapted to sponge gourd as compared to bean. This study provides valuable insight into host plant effects on L. trifolii and provides a basis for the subsequent development of IPM measures such as push and pull, crop rotation, and biopesticide development.

Assessing the Impact of Sustainable Agriculture Practices on Biodiversity Conservation

An important component in attaining environmental resilience and sustainability is the effect of sustainable agricultural practices on biodiversity conservation. Using examples from a variety of environments, this article assesses how well alternative sustainable agriculture approaches encourage biodiversity conservation. Improving environmental health, reducing ecological footprint, and ensuring long-term productivity are all goals of sustainable agriculture. organic farming, integrated pest management, conservation tillage, and agroforestry are all examples of sustainable agricultural methods. We look at how these activities affect soil organisms, plant variety, and wildlife habitats, among other layers of biodiversity. These methods aid in the protection and improvement of biodiversity by analysing current empirical research and case studies from a variety of geographical areas. Results show that sustainable agricultural techniques can lessen environmental stresses, increase species variety, and improve habitat quality, all of which are important for biodiversity conservation. By reducing chemical inputs and providing a variety of ecological niches, systems like agroforestry and organic farming are able to support a wide variety of plant and animal species. Soil health is improved and habitat disruption is reduced through integrated pest control and conservation tillage, both of which contribute to an ecosystem that is more resilient.

Remote sensing analysis of spatiotemporal impacts of anthropogenic influence on mountain landscape ecology in Pir Chinasi national park

Mountain landscapes can be fragmented due to various human activities such as tourism, road construction, urbanization, and agriculture. It can also be due to natural factors such as flash floods, glacial lake outbursts, land sliding, and climate change such as rising temperatures, heavy rains, or drought.The study’s objective was to analyze the mountain landscape ecology of Pir Chinasi National Park under anthropogenic influence and investigate the impact of anthropogenic activities on the vegetation. This study observed spatiotemporal changes in vegetation due to human activities and associated climate change for the past 25 years (1995–2020) around Pir Chinasi National Park, Muzaffrabad, Pakistan. A structured questionnaire was distributed to 200 residents to evaluate their perceptions of land use and its effects on local vegetation. The findings reveal that 60% of respondents perceived spatiotemporal pressure on the park. On the other hand, the Landsat-oriented Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was utilized for the less than 10% cloud-covered images of Landsat 5, 7, and 8 to investigate the vegetation degradation trends of the study area. During the entire study period, the mean maximum NDVI was approximately 0.28 in 1995, whereas the mean minimum NDVI was − 2.8 in 2010. QGIS 3.8.2 was used for the data presentation. The impact of temperature on vegetation was also investigated for the study period and increasing temperature trends were observed. The study found that 10.81% (1469.08 km2) of the area experienced substantial deterioration, while 23.57% (3202.39 km2) experienced minor degradation. The total area of degraded lands was 34.38% (or 4671.47 km2). A marginal improvement in plant cover was observed in 24.88% of the regions, while 9.69% of the regions experienced a major improvement. According to the NDVI-Rainfall relationships, the area was found to be significantly impacted by human pressures and activities (r ≤ 0.50) driving vegetation changes covering 24.67% of the total area (3352.03 km2). The area under the influence of climatic variability and change (r ≥ 0.50 ≥ 0.90) accounted for 55.84% (7587.26 km2), and the area under both climatic and human stressors (r ≥ 0.50 < 0.70) was 64%. Sustainable land management practices of conservation tillage, integrated pest management, and agroforestry help preserve soil health, water quality, and biodiversity while reducing erosion, pollution, and the degradation of natural resources. landscape restoration projects of reforestation, wetland restoration, soil erosion control, and the removal of invasive species are essential to achieve land degradation neutrality at the watershed scale.

Effect of Insecticides on Generative Potential of Entomopathogenic Nematode, Steinernema abbasi PN-1 in Spodoptera litura Fabricius

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different insecticides at varying concentrations on the progeny production of the entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema abbasi PN-1 in Spodoptera litura larvae, with a focus on determining the insecticides' compatibility with biological control agents. S. litura larvae were treated with a mixture of S. abbasi PN-1 and insecticides (fipronil, emamectin benzoate, cyantraniliprole, indoxacarb, and chlorantraniliprole) at three different concentrations (lower, medium, and higher). Progeny production of S. abbasi PN-1 was assessed and compared across treatments, with control groups consisting of larvae treated with S. abbasi PN-1 alone. The study found that progeny production was significantly influenced by the type and concentration of insecticides. Fipronil exhibited the least negative impact on progeny production across all concentrations, followed by emamectin benzoate, cyantraniliprole, indoxacarb, and chlorantraniliprole, with the latter showing the most significant inhibitory effects. Higher concentrations of insecticides resulted in a greater reduction in progeny production, indicating a dose-dependent relationship. The results suggest that certain insecticides, particularly at higher concentrations, can negatively affect the progeny production of S. abbasi PN-1, potentially compromising the effectiveness of EPNs in integrated pest management (IPM) programs. The study highlights the importance of selecting compatible insecticides and their appropriate concentrations to enhance the success of biological control strategies involving EPNs.

Exploiting Induced Plant Resistance for Sustainable Pest Management: Mechanisms, Elicitors, and Applications: A Review

Plants and phytophagous (plant-eating) arthropods have coevolved over millions of years, leading to the development of both constitutive and inducible defense mechanisms in plants. Despite this long history of coexistence, it remains unclear how to precisely regulate each host-arthropod interaction to achieve an equilibrium that maximizes crop yield. The defensive chemicals produced by plants can significantly affect herbivores’ feeding behaviour, growth, and survival. These chemicals may be generated constitutively (continuously) or induced in response to herbivore damage. Induced resistance, a strategy where plants enhance their defences after being attacked, holds potential for reducing the number of insecticides needed in pest management. Chemical elicitors, which trigger the production of secondary metabolites that confer resistance to insects, can be used to manipulate host plant resistance, specifically by inducing resistance. By understanding the mechanisms underlying induced resistance, it is possible to predict which herbivores will be impacted by these responses. Applying induced response elicitors to crop plants can strengthen their natural defences against herbivore damage. Additionally, it is possible to genetically modify plants so that they constitutively produce defense chemicals, providing continuous protection in areas where herbivory is a constant threat. As part of integrated pest management, induced resistance can be used to develop crop cultivars that readily trigger an inducible response in the event of a mild infestation, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.

Susceptibility of Bemisia tabaci Gennadius (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) Mediterranean Populations Found in São Paulo, Brazil to 11 Insecticides and Characterization of Their Endosymbionts.

The silverleaf whitefly, Bemisia tabaci Gennadius (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), is a significant agricultural pest worldwide, impacting a variety of crop yields. Since the introduction of B. tabaci Mediterranean (MED) species in Brazil, limited research has measured the relative efficacy of the primary insecticides used in whitefly management. This study evaluated the susceptibility of three distinct B. tabaci MED populations to 11 insecticide active ingredients and characterized the bacterial endosymbionts within each population. The insecticides tested were acetamiprid, bifenthrin, cyantraniliprole, diafenthiuron, spiromesifen, imidacloprid, pymetrozine, pyriproxyfen, sulfoxaflor, and thiamethoxam. Results showed varying LC50 and LC90 values among tested insecticides and populations. Notably, populations varied in response to imidacloprid and thiamethoxam with some populations having a 6× higher tolerance. Sequencing data of endosymbionts revealed that individuals from the most susceptible B. tabaci population harbored Rickettsia and Arsenophonus, whereas these bacteria were not detected in the resistant populations. These findings highlight the need for frequent insecticide toxicity bioassays of distinct B. tabaci populations and the adoption of integrated pest management strategies to preserve the efficacy of insecticides for B. tabaci control. Additionally, the role of infection by endosymbionts to alter susceptibility should be further explored.

Complexities in the Implementation and Maintenance of Integrated Pest Management in Potato.

Integrated pest management (IPM) is an educated and systematic effort to use multiple control techniques to reduce pest damage to economically acceptable levels while minimizing negative environmental impacts. Although its benefits are widely acknowledged, IPM is not universally practiced by farmers. Potato farming, which produces one of the most important staple crops in the world, provides a good illustration of the issues surrounding IPM adoption. Potatoes are attacked by a complex of insect pests that can inflict catastrophic crop losses. Potato production has gone through the processes of consolidation and intensification, which are linked to increased pest problems, particularly selection for insecticide-resistant pest populations. While use of insecticides remains the most common method of pest control in potatoes, other techniques, including crop rotation and natural enemies, are also available. In addition, there are effective monitoring techniques for many potato pests. However, reliable economic thresholds are often lacking. Potato ecosystems are complex and diverse; therefore, the knowledge necessary for developing ecologically based pest management is not easily obtained or transferable. Furthermore, potato systems change with the arrival of new pest species and the evolution of existing pests. Modern technological advances, such as remote sensing and molecular biotechnology, are likely to improve potato IPM. However, these tools are not going to solve all problems. IPM is not just about integrating different techniques; it is also about integrating the efforts and concerns of all stakeholders. The collaboration of farmers and scientists in agricultural research is needed to foster the development of IPM systems that are appropriate for grower implementation and thus more likely to be adopted. Additional emphasis also needs to be placed on the fact that not only does IPM decrease degradation of the environment, but it also improves the economic well-being of its practitioners.