Pest Control Practices Research Articles

Sustainable pest management strategies for agriculture in Pakistan: a review

The agriculture sector of Pakistan’s economy faces significant challenges, including water scarcity, land degradation, climate change, and pest infestations, all of which threaten crop production and rural livelihoods. Historically, pest management has heavily relied on chemical pesticides, such as organophosphates and pyrethroids. While these provide short-term solutions, their extensive use has led to environmental degradation, health risks, and the development of resistance in cotton and vegetable crops. In response, integrated pest management (IPM) has emerged as an ecological approach that combines biological, cultural, mechanical, and selective chemical controls to regulate pest populations while minimizing environmental damage. This study reviews pest control practices in Pakistan, with a particular focus on the National IPM Programme and Farmer Field Schools. Successful programs under these initiatives have reduced pesticide use by 87% and increased crop yields by 10-25%. Case studies highlight the effectiveness of biological controls, such as Trichogramma wasps and Beauveria bassiana fungi, which have resulted in reduced pesticide use and yield improvements of up to 18%. However, challenges persist, including farmer education, a lack of facilities for maintaining biological control agents, and climate-induced shifts in pest populations. The study also emphasizes the potential of precision agriculture technologies, such as drones, remote sensing, and AI-driven monitoring systems, for pest surveillance and targeted interventions. Policy recommendations include providing institutional support, enhancing farmer capacity, investing in biopesticides and genetically modified organisms, and fostering collaboration among government agencies, research organizations, and farmers to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of agriculture in Pakistan.

Virulence of Jordanian indigenous Beauveria bassiana isolates as entomopathogenic fungi against red palm weevil, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

BackgroundRed palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), has recently become a significant threat to date palm trees in Jordan and other regions around the world. This destructive pest causes significant economic losses by boring into palm trunks, leading to tree death. Among the different pest management methods within integrated pest management (IPM) programs, biological control utilizing microorganisms has emerged as a promising sustainable approach. Of particular interest is the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana which has shown significant efficacy against various insect pests and could be promising.ResultsThree local isolates of B. bassiana were obtained from soil samples in the Al-Balqa governorate, Jordan. These isolates were identified using morphological and molecular techniques. The virulence of these isolates against RPW larvae and adults was evaluated under laboratory conditions, with isolate BA1 approved to be the most effective, causing 100% mortality rates of wax moth larvae and 90% in RPW larvae, with about 60% mortality of RPW adults. Comparative studies underscored the variability in virulence among different B. bassiana isolates which were influenced by factors such as hydrophobicity and enzymatic activity.ConclusionsThe findings suggest that local B. bassiana isolates hold potential as an environmentally safe strategy for IPM in date palm cultivation, contributing to sustainable pest control practices for RPW.

Pesticide use in integrated pest and pollinator management framework to protect pollinator health.

Agricultural pesticides have historically been a critical tool in controlling pests and diseases, preventing widespread suffering and crop losses that led to catastrophes such as the Great Irish Famine (1845-1852) and the Cotton Boll Weevil Infestation (1915-1916). However, their usage has brought challenges, including resistance development, secondary pest outbreaks, harm to non-target organisms like pollinators, and environmental contamination. In response to these concerns, integrated pest management (IPM) has emerged as a comprehensive approach, emphasizing non-chemical pest control methods such as cultural practices, biological control, and crop rotation, with pesticides as the last resort. IPM has evolved, influenced by regulations like the Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA), which prioritizes human health protection, especially for children. The development of systemic pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, introduced a more efficient and targeted pest control method within the IPM framework. However, they have also raised concerns due to their potential adverse effects on pollinators. In recent years, integrated pest and pollinator management (IPPM) has emerged as an enhanced approach, integrating pollinator health considerations into pest management strategies. In this article, we discuss this new approach, and briefly present an example of a modifying pesticide program in Pennsylvania apple orchards to illustrate the application of IPPM, in order to highlight the importance of IPPM in sustaining agriculture, protecting vital pollinators, and maintaining effective pest control practices. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Georgia’s potentials for sustainable intensification, increasing food security and rural incomes

Abstract Increasing global demand for agricultural commodities spurs conversions of natural ecosystems. Sustainable intensification in areas of high yield gaps has been proposed as a pathway to achieve food security, support rural livelihoods, and improve resource efficiency while also reducing the impact of commodity production by narrowing yield gaps on existing agricultural lands. Following the dissolution of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), Georgia experienced one of the highest losses of agricultural productivity among all former USSR countries and is now highly dependent on food imports. Closing yield gaps in Georgia through sustainable intensification has the potential to increase food self-sufficiency, support rural livelihoods, and strengthen food security and sovereignty. We estimated Georgia’s potential for sustainable intensification in current agricultural areas to achieve self-sufficiency for wheat, maize, and barley. We found that crop yields can be doubled to tripled under high-input production systems, using high-yielding varieties, optimized inputs, fertilizers, and pest control. Yet, self-sufficiency in wheat can only be reached if at least 80% of the attainable yields are achieved and if land is strategically allocated between crops. To achieve such increases, farmers need access to and training for using different crop varieties, fertilizers, and pest and disease control practices and products. Intensification with very high levels of inputs can increase the ecological and human risks of agriculture and raise equity concerns. Yet, intensifying very low input agricultural production systems is often found to be more sustainable, with high yield increases compared to limited impacts on the environment. The high employment rate in the agricultural sector in Georgia provides opportunities for intensification to help reduce poverty and improve livelihoods by increasing incomes and food security.

EDUKASI PENDEKATAN PARTISIPATIF DALAM PENGENDALIAN HAMA BURUNG DI PERTANAMAN PADI DI KECAMATAN TAMBAN CATUR KABUPATEN KAPUAS KALIMANTAN TENGAH

Bird pests in rice cultivation pose a serious problem that directly affects harvest yields and farmer welfare, particularly in Tamban Catur District, Kapuas Regency, Central Kalimantan. This study focuses on implementing an educational program and field practices for bird pest control through a participatory approach. The objective of this research is to enhance farmers' understanding and skills in independently and sustainably managing bird pests. The methods used include training, extension services, and field assistance, involving active participation from farmers. The results show that this program effectively increased farmers' knowledge of bird pest control techniques and significantly reduced harvest losses caused by pest attacks. This participatory approach is expected to be widely applicable in other regions to support food security and improve farmers' welfare.

Insights into pupal development of Bactrocera dorsalis: factors influencing eclosion

In the life cycle of the oriental fruit fly where larvae reside within fruits and adults exhibit high activity, the pupal stage occurs in the soil, closely tied to agricultural soil management. This study investigates the impact of four variables (body orientation, burial depth, soil particle size, and pH) on Bactrocera dorsalis’ physiological preferences, eclosion rates, and pupal stage duration. Notably, body orientation, burial depth, soil texture (particle size), and pH affect eclosion rates. The fruit fly demonstrates a preference for a supine position during eclosion, with average eclosion rates of 97.33%, contrasting with decreases to 78.00% in a head-down position. Soil with mixed particle sizes is detrimental to pupal eclosion, reducing the eclosion rate to 56.67%. And at a pH of 9.98, eclosion rates decrease to 16.67%. These factors significantly influence eclosion rates However, these factors do not significantly alter the duration of the pupal stage, with mean changes not exceeding one day when experimental conditions are modified. These findings suggests that soil manipulations affecting these variables could reduce eclosion rates without compromising the uniformity of adult emergence. This study provides a foundation for environmentally friendly pest control practices and addresses gaps in the pupal stage research of the oriental fruit fly.

Indigenous Technical Knowledge Practices for Managing Pests and Diseases in Agricultural Crops

Aims: This study aims to document indigenous technical knowledge (ITK) practices used by farmers in the Tirunelveli district for managing pests and diseases in agricultural crops. It focuses on understanding traditional methods and their relevance in sustainable pest and disease control. Study Design: This is a descriptive field study employing a mixed-method approach, combining a literature review and qualitative data collection from farmers. Place and Duration of Study: The study took place in Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, India. The research was conducted over three months from January to March. Methodology: The research was conducted in three phases 1) Literature Review: Existing studies on indigenous pest and disease management techniques in the region were reviewed. 2) Data Collection: Interviews and focus group discussions were held with farmers to gather traditional knowledge on pest and disease control practices. 3) Data Analysis: The collected information was analysed for common practices and evaluated for effectiveness. Results: The study uncovered numerous indigenous techniques, including the use of neem leaves, cow urine, and plant-based remedies for pest control. Out of 150 farmers interviewed, 80% used traditional methods, with 60% reporting success in reducing crop damage. These practices were found to be cost-effective and eco-friendly, reducing dependence on chemical pesticides. Conclusion: The research highlights the potential of ITK in sustainable agriculture particularly for pest and disease management. It underscores the importance of preserving and promoting these traditional methods as viable alternatives to modern chemical practices.

REPORT OF PRACTICAL CLASS IN AGRICULTURAL AREA WITH THE BACHELOR CLASS IN AGRONOMY IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF TRACUATEUA-PA

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a highly consumed root and a significant source of carbohydrates in Brazil and around the world. In the state of Pará, cassava is vital to the local economy, especially in the municipality of Tracuateua. The culture involves family farmers and serves as an important source of income and subsistence. Different cultivars are used, such as BRS Tapioqueira and BRS Verdinha, which exceed 70 thousand kg/ha with good management. Adequate fertilization, pest control and weed management are essential for high productivity. Irrigation can significantly increase production. On the property of Mr. Benedito Dutra, member of the RENIVA project, the production of seed cassava and cowpea is highlighted. It uses cultivars developed by Embrapa, such as BRS Kiriris, BRS Formosa and BRS Novo Horizonte, which are recommended for industrial use. Dutra also grows cowpeas, using varieties such as BRS Guirá and BRS Natalina, which are highly productive and adapted to local conditions. The property has an irrigated area of ​​23 hectares per central pivot, ensuring crop hydration during dry periods. During the field visit, several areas of experimentation were observed. The experimental plots of cassava and cowpea showed good performance, with a high survival rate and resistance to pests. The integration of advanced soil management, pest control and irrigation practices highlighted the property as an example of innovative agriculture. The experience on Mr. Dutra’s property demonstrated the importance of innovation and adoption of advanced agricultural practices for sustainable and productive agricultural production.

Urban Entomology: Navigating the Intersection of Pests and Human Environments

Urban entomology, a distinct discipline within entomology, focuses on pests in human environments, addressing a wide range of species from insects to vertebrates. First coined by A.H. Waters in 1884 and popularized by W. Ebeling's 1975 book, urban entomology gives an idea about arthropods' interactions with humans, pets and structures. As urbanization accelerates, with a projected 68% of the global population living in cities by 2050, understanding pest dynamics becomes increasingly critical. Factors like invasive species, pesticide resistance and public health concerns underscore the need for effective pest management strategies, emphasizing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches. This review explores urban entomology's history, key pest groups and modern management challenges, while highlighting the industry's evolution in response to urbanization. It also discusses the roles of various stakeholders, including researchers, pest management professionals and regulatory bodies, in addressing urban pest issues. Ultimately, the review calls for collaborative efforts to enhance pest control practices, leveraging biological control methods and sustainable strategies to mitigate the impacts of urban pests on public health and infrastructure.

Effect of integrated pest management practices on the occurrence of pesticide residue in okra cultivated by farmers in Kwara state.

Integrated pest management (IPM) is a sustainable approach for minimizing the negative impacts of pests on crops while reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides. This study was conducted in Kwara State Nigeria in 2023, to investigate the effects of implementation of IPM practices on the occurrence of pesticide residues in okra cultivated by the farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria, and identify the factors affecting the use of IPM practices for pest control in okra production. A sample of 245 okra farmers was selected across 4 agricultural zones of Kwara State using a multistage sampling technique. Additionally, okra samples were collected from the farmers of each community of the local government areas. The data collected from the farmers were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics including frequency count, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and Pearson product moment correlation (PPMC). The collected okra samples were taken to the laboratory for pesticide residue extraction and analysis was performed using gas chromatography (GC)-mass spectrometer (MS). The results showed that most okra producers in Kwara State were smallholder farmers who, despite practicing IPM, had limited knowledge of the technology. Some pesticide residues were detected in okra, out of which two were present in quantities above the maximum residue limit, while others were below the maximum residue limit. Therefore, this study recommends that the government should improve extension services in the State by providing adequate funds and training extension agents who can provide comprehensive training to farmers on the types and application of IPM as an eco-friendly technology for preventing pesticide residue in okra.

Does Social Learning Promote Farmers’ Cooperative Pest Control?—Evidence from Northwestern China

Pest management is pivotal for ensuring secure grain production and constitutes a fundamental strategy in combating pests that detrimentally affect grain supplies. Given the complexity and dynamic nature of pests, it is imperative that farmers implement coordinated prevention and control strategies. Such measures are essential to augment the efficacy of these efforts and to reduce the risks posed by pests to agricultural crops. This research involved a survey of 1205 agricultural households spanning three representative provinces in Northwestern China. By employing an endogenous switching Probit model and addressing sample selection bias, the study investigates the influence of social learning on the adoption of cooperative pest control strategies by farmers. The findings indicate that social learning significantly enhances farmers’ adoption of cooperative pest control measures. In a counterfactual scenario, introducing social learning to farmers previously unexposed to it would result in a 10.3% increase in the likelihood of adopting these practices. Additionally, factors such as the health status of the household head, income level, and size of land under management are critical determinants of farmers’ participation in social learning. The differential access to scientific, accurate, and systematic information, coupled with resource disparities among farmers, can partially account for the varying average treatment effects observed in different learning methods on the propensity to adopt cooperative pest control practices. Furthermore, social learning plays a crucial role in fostering such adoption by establishing trust among farmers, facilitating consensus in decision-making, and enhancing the dissemination of information.

Improving UASS pesticide application: optimizing and validating drift and deposition simulations.

As unmanned aerial spraying systems (UASS) usage grows rapidly worldwide, a critical research study was conducted to optimize the simulation of UASS applications, aiming to enhance pesticide delivery efficiency and reduce environmental impact. The study examined several key aspects for accurate simulation of UASS application with lattice Boltzmann method (LBM). Based on these discussions, the most suitable grid size and simulation parameters were selected to create a robust model for optimizing UASS performance in various pest management scenarios, potentially leading to more targeted and sustainable pest control practices. The effect of stability parameter, grid size around the rotor and near ground, and parameters at wake flow were carefully analyzed to improve the precision of pesticide drift predictions and deposition patterns. Optimal grid sizes were identified as 0.2 m generally, 0.025 m near rotors, and a 0.1 + 0.2 m scheme for ground proximity, with finer grids improving accuracy but increasing computation time. Wake resolution and threshold significantly influenced simulation results, while wake distance had minimal impact beyond a certain point. The LBM's accuracy was validated by comparing simulated downwash flow and droplet deposition with field test data. This study optimized UASS simulation parameters, balancing computational efficiency with accuracy. The validated model enhances our ability to design more effective UASS for pest management, potentially leading to more precise and targeted pesticide applications. These advancements contribute to the development of sustainable pest control strategies, aiming to reduce pesticide usage and environmental impact while maintaining crop protection efficacy. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Friend or foe? Engaging public can save the critically endangered common hamster (Cricetus cricetus)

AbstractThe common hamster (Cricetus cricetus) occupies a controversial position among mammals inhabiting agricultural areas, as it is possibly the only critically endangered species that is legally targeted by lethal control methods, making it a conflict‐generating pest. We surveyed various stakeholders, agrarian consultants, wildlife rangers, and residents for the first time in Hungary, with two interrelated questionnaires to obtain accurate information about hamster populations, and to learn about the participants knowledge of, and attitude toward hamsters in order to provide fundamental information for planning and strengthening social embeddedness. Additionally, we prepared the current distribution map of the hamster. Based on the relatively wide distribution and locally high abundance of the species, Hungary has a key role in hamster conservation. We identified several factors, which can contribute to successful species protection. The results indicated that more than 60% of the respondent's liked hamsters. In contrast, only a few residents considered hamsters in their settlement to be beneficial. Our results suggest that the hamster's reputation is disproportionately negative due to vaguely known perceptions of harm as compared with actual reported damage. This imbalance could be rectified through enhanced communication efforts. Improving the species' reputation is integral to effective species conservation initiatives. Current pest control practices (poisons and snap traps) kill the hamsters, even though 82% of the residents would prefer to keep the hamsters alive, conforming to conservation efforts. The results also indicated that the hamster could be a flagship species in Hungary. Knowledge of the protected status of the hamster predicted a positive attitude toward the species and related to nature conservation consciousness. We conclude that requirements of residents should be included in the species action plan along with the experts' knowledge, as this could contribute to successful, long‐term conservation of the hamster.

Towards Sustainable Onion Seed Production: An In-depth Analysis of Pest Control Practices, Knowledge Gaps, and Pollinator’s Awareness among Onion Seed Farmers in Maharashtra, India

Towards Sustainable Onion Seed Production: An In-depth Analysis of Pest Control Practices, Knowledge Gaps, and Pollinator’s Awareness among Onion Seed Farmers in Maharashtra, India

Cross-instar larval identification leads divergent decision on pest management: An example from white grubs on peanuts

Accurate larval identification is a prerequisite for integrated pest management, but remains a long-term difficulty in insect taxonomy. Previous descriptions are mainly focused on the most disruptive final instar larvae. However, earlier instars especially cross-instar larval morphological comparisons were rarely delivered hitherto. Polyphylla laticollis and Maladera orientalis are pests that damage peanut crops at various developmental stages. The first instar larvae of P. laticollis and the mature larvae of M. orientalis attack peanuts simultaneously and cause different types of damage. In this study, we compared the life histories and larval morphologies through field investigations and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations. These cross-instar white grubs are similar in sizes, but exhibit morphological differences on their mouthparts, thoracic legs, anal slits, and rasters. This study presents a novel approach to larval identification, with a goal of generating new insights into integrated pest control practices on white grubs.

Isolation and Identification of Entomopathogenic Fungi from the Soils of Northwest Iran and their Biological Control Efficacy on the Flour Moth (Ephestia kuehniella)

Entomopathogenic fungi have the potential to serve as alternatives to or supplements for chemical pesticides in insect biocontrol, with many of these fungi being utilized in commercial and integrated pest control practices globally. This study aimed to isolate and evaluate the efficacy of various entomopathogenic fungi for the biocontrol of the flour moth, Ephestia kuehniella (Lep: Pyralidae). Multiple isolates of entomopathogenic fungi were acquired from soils across different districts of Azerbaijan province in northwest Iran, and their virulence against E. kuehniella larvae was assessed. Seventeen isolates representing diverse entomopathogenic fungi were isolated and purified using the soil trap method from 20 distinct soil samples. Their pathogenicity against E. kuehniella was evaluated in three replicates through the immersion technique at concentrations of 104, 105, 106, 107, and 108 conidia/mL. Identification of selected fungal isolates was based on morphological features, mycological parameters, and sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. The study identified seven fungal species, namely Lecanicillium lecanii, Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae, Purpureocillium lilacinum, Aspergillus oryzae, Penicillium citrinum, and Aspergillus lavus, among the 17 isolates collected. Bioassay assessments revealed the susceptibility of 4th-instar larvae of E. kuehniella to the selected isolates, with the larval mortality rate increasing with higher conidial concentrations. A. lavus, A. oryzae, P. citrinum, and P. lilacinum exhibited maximum virulence, causing nearly 90% lethality, while Metarhizium anisopliae demonstrated the lowest level of virulence, resulting in approximately 30% lethality in E. kuehniella. The virulence pattern of isolates across different concentrations was notably distinct. The findings of this research demonstrate that entomopathogenic fungi isolated in this investigation could be effectively incorporated into future pest management programs.

An Eretmocerus Species, Parasitoid of Aleurocanthus spiniferus, Was Found in Europe: The Secret Savior of Threatened Plants

This study focuses on the first detection in Europe of a parasitoid Eretmocerus sp. gr. serius (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) on the Orange Spiny Whitefly, Aleurocanthus spiniferus (Quaintance) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae). Through extensive field surveys, this study investigates the occurrence of the aphelinid in several regions across central and southern Italy. Different sites were monitored to investigate the Eretmocerus sp. gr. serius parasitization rate on A. spiniferus, shedding light on its potential as a biological control agent against the invasive whitefly pest. The research results offer a hopeful prospect for progressing sustainable and eco-friendly methods in handling A. spiniferus infestations in citrus crops, highlighting the importance of natural enemies in integrated pest management programs. The research emphasizes the importance of the recently discovered parasitoid for European agriculture, paving the way for inventive approaches in pest control and cultivation practices.

Towards Sustainable Pest Management: Toxicity, Biochemical Effects, and Molecular Docking Analysis of Ocimum basilicum (Lamiaceae) Essential Oil on Agrotis ipsilon and Spodoptera littoralis (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Over the last decade, essential oils (EOs) have become potential ingredients for insecticide formulations due to their widespread availability and perceived safety. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the toxicity and biochemical efficacy of basil (Ocimum basilicum) (Lamiaceae) against two destructive pests Noctuidae, Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel) and Spodoptera littoralis (Boisduval) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). In addition, a molecular docking study was performed to gain insight into the binding pattern between glutathione S-transferase (GST) and linalool, the main component of EO. GC–MS analysis of O. basilicum EO revealed that linalool is the most abundant compound (29.34%). However, the toxicity tests showed no significant difference between the values of LC50 of O. basilicum EO to A. ipsilon and S. littoralis. On the other hand, the sublethal experiments indicated that treating the second instar larvae with LC15 or LC50 values of O. basilicum EO significantly prolonged the larval duration in both insects, compared to the control. Regarding the biochemical effect of O. basilicum EO, the treatments significantly impacted the activity of detoxification enzymes. A notable elevation in glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity was recorded in A. ipsilon larvae compared with a reduction in S. littoralis larvae. The molecular docking analysis revealed that linalool bonded with the amino acid serine (SER 9) of GST, indicating its binding affinity with the enzyme. The obtained results could offer valuable insights into the mode of action of O. basilicum and can encourage the adoption of sustainable pest control practices that incorporate essential oils.

Centipedegrass for Florida Lawns

Centipedegrass is a commonly grown, low input turfgrass used in landscapes throughout the state of Florida. This factsheet provide science based information on the culture and management of centipedegrass including mowing, irrigation, pest control, and cultural practices.

Influence of Selected Extension Support services on Sesame Production Among Smallholder Farmers in Bal’ad District, Somalia

Sesame is valuable cash crop in Somalia, as a significant income source for smallholder farmers. Its cultivation and trade make substantial contributions to the national economy, generating revenue and creating employment opportunities. Farmers face challenges related to poor-quality seeds, limited fertilizers, and a lack of proper pest control practices. The paper was to investigate the influence of selected factors (access to farm inputs, access to credit, and access to market information) on sesame production among smallholder farmers in Bal’ad district/Middle Shabelle/Somalia. The target population was 3098 sesame farmers. Purposive sampling and simple random sampling were used to select a sample of the respondents. The sample size was 148 farmers. The study used both quantitative and qualitative methods. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. The paper recommends that extension support services should guarantee that access to inputs of sesame production is available and offered to new farmers.