Invasive Pest Research Articles

Detoxification of Chlorfenapyr by a Parkin-GSTd2 Module in Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae).

The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), is a highly invasive and destructive pest. Chlorfenapyr is a widely used insecticide that disrupts mitochondrial activity. The Parkin protein plays conserved roles in maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis, but the role of Parkin in response to chlorfenapyr remains largely unknown. Here, we report that BdParkin is required for chlorfenapyr detoxification, and dsRNA targeting BdParkin improves the insecticidal efficacy of chlorfenapyr. Among the genes whose expression levels are affected by BdParkin RNAi, knock-down of the glutathione S-transferase gene BdGSTd2 increases the insecticidal efficacy of chlorfenapyr. Molecular docking reveals potential interactions between BdGSTd2 and tralopyril, an insecticidal metabolite of chlorfenapyr. These results suggest that BdParkin could impact the response of B. dorsalis to chlorfenapyr through metabolic processes regulated by BdGSTd2. Our findings could offer new insights into how insects detoxify chlorfenapyr and provide molecular targets for developing a sustainable management strategy for B. dorsalis.

Dynamic spatial network simulation accounting for multiple ecological factors provides practical recommendations for biosecurity early detection and rapid response (EDRR) strategies.

Globally the spread of invasive pests is being facilitated by increased human mobility and climate change. Simulation modelling can help assess biosecurity strategies for early detection and rapid response (EDRR), but has struggled to account for important factors in the invasion process, such as spatial and temporal variability in habitat suitability and connectivity; population dynamics; and multiple dispersal pathways. We developed a novel dynamic spatial network simulation approach based on spatial network theory that enables integration of a wider range of spatio-temporal factors than previous studies, calibrated it against extensive historical trapping data, and applied it to comprehensively analyse the EDRR strategy for Oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis; OFF) in northern Australia. Simulations indicated that the chance of OFF reaching the mainland in the next 20 years could be up to 20% under the current EDRR strategy, depending on how optimistic or pessimistic model assumptions are, and highlighted possible improvements to the EDRR strategy for further consideration. Simulations under optimistic assumptions indicate that transport via wind is most important in OFF reaching the mainland, but under pessimistic assumptions transport via people carrying infected fruit becomes more important. Our new dynamic spatial network simulation approach can account for a wide range of spatio-temporal ecological factors to provide practical real-world recommendations. At a minimum, this approach only requires weather and population data, both of which are available globally from a variety of free and open sources, making it broadly applicable to assessing the EDRR strategies in place for different species in other locations. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Cold Tolerance and Physiological Response of Natural Overwintering Pomacea canaliculata in South China.

Pomacea canaliculata (Lamarck 1822), a freshwater gastropod indigenous to lower Del Plata Basin of Argentina, has become the most destructive and invasive rice pests in south China since its introduction in the 1980s. In Guangdong, the main production areas for double rice, most of P. canaliculata overwinter in paddy field ditches after late-rice harvesting in mid-November and diapause to temporarily to avoid the damaging effects of extreme low temperatures. This pest aroused from diapause and migrated to the paddy field after early-rice reviving in next late March. Overwintering and cold tolerance of natural P. canaliculata have a non-negligible impact on population dynamics and distribution in the following year. We tested the supercooling capability, levels of cryoprotectant synthesis, activity of antioxidant defense system (antioxidant enzymes and reduced glutathione), and degree of oxidative damage (concentration of malondialdehyde as an index of lipid peroxidation) monthly, using natural P. canaliculata samples with a size-gender structure (i.e., juveniles, female, and male adults) from experimental ponds during the period of mid-November to the following April. P. canaliculata survived the winter with a monthly death rate of 7%-16.5% in coldest January. The supercooling point (SCP) of overwintering P. canaliculata decreased initially before increasing subsequently with monthly changes in water temperature. P. canaliculata accumulated a high glycogen content before December, which depleted towards the end of January, while lipid content reached peak in January and depleted since February. Activity of antioxidant defense system of P. canaliculata exhibited significant monthly differences and showed relatively higher size heterogeneity than monthly variations. The results contribute to the knowledge of adaptability in overwintering P. canaliculata and help to understand the mechanism of the invasive success of this species.

Melanaphis sorghi : A review and synthesis of its control options 10 years post detection of a new invasive haplotype in the United States of America

Abstract Melanaphis sorghi is a serious invasive insect pest of grain, sweet and forage sorghum in the southern USA. Ten years post invasion by this aphid, the authors reviewed the literature on the host range, distribution, impact and available management options. Since the detection of M. sorghi in Texas in 2013, this pest rapidly spread into 25 states that accounted for over 98% of the nationwide sorghum production. At high densities and infestations, feeding by M. sorghi causes direct injury and reduces plant quality leading to significant yield reductions and severe economic losses. Multiple management methods aimed at suppressing aphid populations and reducing yield and economic losses have been developed and are available to growers. These methods include the use of in-furrow and foliar insecticide applications, resistant sorghum cultivars, cultural methods like late planting, and conservation of natural enemies (predators and parasitoids) in sorghum production. A comprehensive review of the literature indicated that utilizing a combination of management methods was more efficient in suppressing aphid populations and improving yield across a range of locations. Research focused on integrated pest management of M. sorghi is still needed to refine IPM strategies in sorghum production.

Reconstruction and Prediction of Invasive Cydia pomonella Population Dynamics: A Laboratory Study

ABSTRACTInvasive species pose a significant threat to global biodiversity and ecological services. The specific threshold of the initial population size necessary for the successful establishment of an invasive species remains uncertain. This research delves into the effects of different initial population sizes on the colonisation and population dynamics of the globally recognised invasive pest, Cydia pomonella, within a controlled laboratory setting. The results revealed that even a single pair of C. pomonella displayed notable eggs laid (fecundity) and hatched (fertility) by producing offspring upon mating. Larger initial population size exhibited increased mating rates, leading to enhanced fecundity and subsequently more offspring, indicating that the development of C. pomonella population is directly impacted by the mating rate of the initial individuals. Projections based on F1 data indicate that the C. pomonella population size could persistently increase over a span of 150 days, with varying growth rates influenced by the initial population size. These findings indicate the importance of heightened monitoring and management in non‐invaded regions to avert early colonisation of C. pomonella, thus mitigating the threat of invasion and subsequent population expansion.

Charting the Course of Invasion: Ensemble Species Distribution Models Predict the Range Expansion of a Newly Invasive Aphid Pest Metopolophium festucae cerealium in North America

Invasive species, including insect pests, pose significant threats globally. Ongoing global environmental changes may exacerbate the threats, by potentially favoring range expansion of invasive pests, altering native ecosystems, and damaging valuable crops. To reduce the spread and impact of invasive pests, monitoring and identification of their suitable habitats in the context of global environmental change (e.g., ongoing changes in land use and climate) is essential. This study examines the current and future potential habitat suitability of a newly invasive aphid, Metopolophium festucae cerealium, in North America, focusing on its potential expansion into wheat growing regions in North America. Using occurrence data collected during a decade of surveying from ∼450 sites in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) where the aphid has invaded, with the help of an ensemble modeling framework, we predicted the habitat suitability for M. f. cerealium for North America under various climate scenarios and land use conditions. The results indicate a high likelihood of further eastward and southward expansion from the PNW, particularly in wheat and cereal crop-producing regions, posing a threat to crop production. The key environmental drivers include cropland percentage, temperature, and precipitation, suggesting potential impacts of future environmental change. The study underscores the importance of considering not only climatic factors but also host plant presence and agricultural practices in pest management strategies.

Tracking the North American Asian Longhorned Beetle Invasion With Genomics.

Biological invasions pose significant threats to ecological and economic stability, with invasive pests like the Asian longhorned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis Motschulsky, ALB) causing substantial damage to forest ecosystems. Effective pest management relies on comprehensive knowledge of the insect's biology and invasion history. This study uses genomics to address these knowledge gaps and inform existing biosurveillance frameworks. We used 2768 genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms to compare invasive A. glabripennis populations in North America, using genomic variation to trace their sources of invasion and spread patterns, thereby refining our understanding of this species' invasion history. We found that most North American A. glabripennis infestations were distinct, resulting from multiple independent introductions from the native range. Following their introduction, all invasive populations experienced a genetic bottleneck which was followed by a population expansion, with a few also showing secondary spread to satellite infestations. Our study provides a foundation for a genome-based biosurveillance tool that can be used to clarify the origin of intercepted individuals, allowing regulatory agencies to strengthen biosecurity measures against this invasive beetle.

Genotypic Variation and Potential Mechanisms of Resistance against Multiple Insect Herbivores in Cranberries.

Plant genotypes often exhibit varying resistance levels to herbivores. However, the impact of this genotypic variation on resistance against multiple herbivores remains poorly understood, especially in crops undergoing recent process of domestication. To address this gap, we studied the magnitude and mechanism of resistance in 12 cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) genotypes to three leaf-chewing herbivores - Sparganothis fruitworm (Sparganothis sulfureana), spotted fireworm (Choristoneura parallela), and spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) - along a domestication gradient (native 'wild' genotypes, 'early hybrid' genotypes, and 'modern hybrid' genotypes). Like cranberries, S. sulfureana and C. parallela are native to the United Sates, while L. dispar is an invasive pest. We measured the survival and growth of larvae on each genotype, as well as variation in plant performance (height and biomass) and leaf defensive chemical traits (C/N ratio, total phenolics, total proanthocyanidins, and flavonols levels) in these genotypes to elucidate potential resistance mechanisms. We found differences in C. parallela and L. dispar larval performance across genotypes, with larvae performing better on the modern hybrid genotypes, while S. sulfureana showed no differences. Morphological and chemical traits varied among genotypes, with total phenolics being the only trait correlated with C. parallela and L. dispar larval performance. Notably, the wild genotypes 'McFarlin' and 'Potter' had higher total phenolics and were more resistant to both herbivores than the modern hybrids 'Demoranville' and 'Mullica Queen.' This research contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the impact of crop domestication on multiple insect herbivores, offering insights for future breeding efforts to enhance host-plant resistance against agricultural pests.

Lecanicillium attenuatum infection and effects on the reproduction of Frankliniella occidentalis

ABSTRACT Frankliniella occidentalis, western flower thrips, is an invasive pest that seriously damages economic crops such as vegetables, flowers, and fruit trees because of its high fecundity, short generation cycle, and strong adaptability. Lecanicillium is an important entomopathogenic fungus, characterised by its wide host range, high pathogenicity, and environmental safety. It plays an important role in the environmentally friendly management of F. occidentalis. This study clarifies whether L. attenuatum infects F. occidentalis and affects its reproduction. The results of scanning electron microscope showed that conidia of L. attenuatum were attached to many parts of thrips adult after 1 h of treatment with 10^8 conidia/mL, and most F. occidentalis were covered by hyphae after 72–120 h. The cumulative mortality rate of the second instar larvae of the F1, F2, and F3 generations exceeded 60% on the seventh day post-infection and that of female adults was higher than 90% when treated by L. attenuatum with 10^8 conidia/mL. Simultaneously, L. attenuatum had strong sublethal effects on the surviving thrips. Indeed, the number of eggs deposited and the lifespan of female adults decreased considerably after the second instar larvae of F. occidentalis were treated with L. attenuatum, and had the impaction on the thrips offspring too. Altogether, our data suggested that L. attenuatum not only exhibited a high degree of pathogenicity towards F. occidentalis second instar larvae and adults but also affected the longevity and reproduction of surviving thrips.

Representative honey bee viruses do not replicate in the small hive beetle, Aethina tumida Murray

The small hive beetle (SHB), Aethina tumida Murray, is an invasive pest of the honey bee and causes significant damage through the consumption of colony resources and brood. Two assumptions related to honey bee virus transmission have been made about SHB: first, that SHB vectors honey bee viruses and second, that these viruses replicate in SHB based on the detection of both positive and negative strand viral genomic RNA within SHB. To clarify the role of SHB in virus transmission, we sought to address whether selected honey bee viruses replicate in SHB. Sequences derived from five honey bee viruses were identified in the transcriptomes of field-caught SHB from the U.S., but not in those of lab-reared SHB, suggesting that these viruses do not replicate in SHB. To elucidate whether the representative viruses, Israeli acute paralysis virus (IAPV; Dicistroviridae) and Deformed wing virus (DWV; Iflaviridae) replicate in SHB, we tested for replication in vitro in an SHB-derived cell line (BCIRL-AtumEN-1129-D6). Following treatment of the cell line with viral particles or viral RNA, the number of virus genomes was monitored by reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). In contrast to the positive control, IAPV and DWV RNA levels steadily decreased over a period of 8 days. Collectively, these results from bioinformatic observations and in vitro experiments indicate that IAPV and DWV do not replicate in SHB. These results are consistent with the host specificity of most insect viruses within a single insect order and indicate that while SHB may serve as a mechanical vector of honey bee viruses within and between hives, this insect does not serve as a biological vector for these honey bee viruses.

New Records of Insect Predators of Invasive Fluted Scales (Hemiptera: Monophlebidae: Iceryini) in Ecuador

Population outbreaks of invasive fluted scales in urban areas of Ecuador have become frequent in recent years. Despite the negative impact that these scale insects cause on the native flora, little is known about the natural enemies that control their populations in Ecuador. During collections and observations carried out between July and October 2021 in the province of Guayas, in western Ecuador, high infestations caused by the invasive pests Crypticerya genistae (Hempel, 1912), Crypticerya multicicatrices Kondo & Unruh, 2009, and Icerya purchasi Maskell, 1879 (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Monophlebidae: Iceryini) were found. Hence, this study aimed to determine the natural enemies of these fluted scales using taxonomic keys based on their morphological characteristics. As a result, five species of predators were identified, i.e., Novius punicus (Gordon, 1972), Novius cardinalis (Mulsant, 1850) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), Syneura cocciphila (Coquillet, 1895) (Diptera: Phoridae), Ceraeochrysa sp. (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), and Cardiastethus sp. (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae); the latter is reported preying on C. multicicatrices for the first time. Knowledge of natural enemies is crucial for developing more effective, eco-friendly pest management strategies that could help mitigate the adverse effects of these invasive scale insects.

Experimental evidence of negative agricultural impacts and effectiveness of mitigation strategies of invasive green iguanas (Iguana iguana) in Puerto Rico

Losses in crop yield due to invasive insects, weeds, pathogens, and herbivores cost trillions of dollars per year globally. To prevent further spread of invasive agricultural pest species, continuous monitoring and prevention are crucial. Once introduced, however, assessing the impact of an invasive pest on agricultural production and testing management strategies are essential. The green iguana (Iguana iguana), a globally widespread invasive herbivore, is considered a possible agricultural pest although no quantitative data on its impact are available. In this study, we evaluated the impact of the invasive green iguana on cucumber (Cucumis sativus, var. Dasher II) and lettuce (Lactuca sativa, var. Black-seeded Simpson) yield by testing the efficacy of two management strategies – Neem-based pesticide and mesh fencing – compared to open field cultivation in Puerto Rico. Mesh fencing led to 20% more growth and doubled cucumber yield compared to open field cultivation, while spraying Neem led to an 18% increase in plant growth but no effect on cucumber yield. We found no difference in lettuce growth or yield among treatment and control plots. This study supports categorizing the green iguana as an invasive agricultural pest species and demonstrates the reptile’s potential to reduce crop yield. It also shows that Neem application at the manufacturer’s suggested concentration is not an effective mitigation technique for reducing crop loss due to green iguana herbivory. Government agencies in regions where the green iguana has the potential to be introduced should consider the species a threat to food production when developing monitoring programs and drafting regulations.

Non-Chemical Control of Nymphal Longhorned Tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis Neumann 1901 (Acari: Ixodidae), Using Diatomaceous Earth.

The longhorned tick (LHT), Haemaphysalis longicornis Neumann (Acari: Ixodidae), is a serious invasive pest in North America where its geographical range is expanding with high densities associated with commercial animal production. There are only a few chemical pesticides available for LHT control, which can lead to the evolution of resistant strains. Diatomaceous earth (DE) was shown to be effective in killing some important tick species but was not examined for LHTs. When LHT nymphs were dipped for about 2-4 s into DE, transferred to Petri dishes (one tick/dish), and incubated at 30 °C and 70% relative humidity, the median survival time was 4.5 h. A locomotor activity assay showed that there was no difference in the overall distance traveled between the DE-treated and control ticks except during the first 2 h after exposure. In a field-simulated study in which a dose of 5.0 g DE/m2 was applied to pine needle litter infested with LHT, all the LHTs were dead at 24 h with no control mortality. Scanning electron micrographs showed the mineral adhering to all surfaces of the tick. The results indicated that DE is effective in killing nymphal LHTs and could be an alternative to the use of chemical acaricides with the advantage of managing pesticide resistance through the killing by a different mode of action and could be used for organically certified animal husbandry.

Identifying key monitoring areas for tree insect pest risks in China under climate change.

Climate change can exacerbate pest population growth, posing significant threats to ecosystem functions and services, social development, and food security. Risk assessment is a valuable tool for effective pest management that identifies potential pest expansion and ecosystem dispersal patterns. We applied a habitat suitability model coupled with priority protection planning software to determine key monitoring areas (KMA) for tree insect pest risks under climate change and used forest ecoregions and nature reserves to assess the ecological risk of insect pest invasion. Finally, we collated the prevention and control measures for reducing future pest invasions. The KMA for tree insect pests in our current and future climate is mainly concentrated in eastern and southern China. However, with climate change, the KMA gradually expands from southeastern to northeastern China. In the current and future climate scenarios, ecoregions requiring high monitoring levels were restricted to the eastern and southern coastal areas of China, and nature reserves requiring the highest monitoring levels were mainly distributed in southeastern China. Tree insect pest invasion assessment using ecoregions and nature reserves identified that future climates increase the risk of pest invasions in forest ecoregions and nature reserves, especially in northeastern China. The increased risk and severity of tree insect pest invasions require implementing monitoring and preventative measures in these areas. We effectively assessed the pest invasion risks using forest ecoregions and nature reserves under climate change. Our assessments suggest that monitoring and early prevention should focus on southeastern and northeastern China.

Response of hibiscus mealybug (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) to citrus volatiles induced by mechanical injury.

Hibiscus mealybug, Nipaecoccus viridis (Newstead) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), is a recent invasive pest of citrus and many other crops in Florida. Nipaecoccus viridis attacks all above ground parts of citrus trees and heavy infestation can cause leaf drop and premature abortion of developing fruits. We quantified greater captures of N. viridis in cardboard band traps on areas of citrus trees that were intentionally injured by mechanical rasping of epidermal tissues as compared with similar but uninjured citrus branches. Direct field collection of headspace volatiles from mechanically injured or intact citrus branches revealed both qualitative and quantitative differences. Certain volatiles (γ-terpinene, citronellal, citronellyl acetate, β-E-farnesene, α-humulene, and α-E-E-farnesene) were only present in samples from damaged citrus branches. Behavioral assays using a laboratory Y-tube olfactometer revealed attraction of N. viridis to volatiles associated with mechanical damage of citrus including synthetic β-ocimene, γ-terpinene, sabinene, isomers of farnesene, and citronellal when loaded into lures at either of 2 concentrations (0.01 or 0.1 µg/µl). Subsequent field trapping experiments confirmed increased captures of various life stages of N. viridis in cardboard band traps baited with a 10.0 µg/µl concentration of farnesene:ocimene:sabinene blend (in 7:13:17 ratio), as well as those releasing either farnesene or ocimene alone at this same concentration, as compared with the mineral oil (diluent) negative control. Our results indicate that common plant related terpenes released by citrus following mechanical damage may be useful for development of an effective monitoring trap for N. viridis.

Assessing the feasibility of pre-emptive biological control against the emerald ash borer, Agrilus planipennis, an imminent biosecurity threat to Europe

As the globalisation of trade increases, so does the spread of arthropod pests, leading to a growing focus on biosecurity preparedness. One approach to this is pre-emptive biological control, involving the importation of classical biological control (CBC) agents for risk assessments and acquiring approval for their release prior to the expected arrival of their target pests. This aims to mitigate the economic and/or environmental consequences of a delayed biological control response to pest invasions. Guidelines to assess the feasibility of pre-emptive biological control for high priority pests were recently developed. Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis, is an invasive woodboring pest of ash (Fraxinus spp.) in North America, European Russia and Ukraine, and is spreading westward into Europe, threatening the future of European ash (Fraxinus excelsior). We applied the aforementioned guidelines to assess the feasibility of pre-emptive biological control in Europe using four EAB parasitoids, already released in North America for CBC. Three of the parasitoids; Oobius agrili, Spathius galinae, and Tetrastichus planipennisi, were found suitable for pre-emptive biological control. The fourth parasitoid, Spathius agrili, was found to have limited establishment in new environmental conditions, and was therefore deemed less suitable for pre-emptive biological control of EAB in Europe. This assessment can inform scientists and regulators in Europe on the most promising EAB parasitoids that should be considered for pre-emptive applications for importation and risk assessment to acquire pre-approval for immediate release should the target pest subsequently be discovered. In turn, this study contributes to the development of biosecurity preparedness against EAB’s imminent spread throughout Europe.

Assessing native parasitoids of the invasive pest Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in the Southeastern USA.

Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae), commonly known as spotted-wing Drosophila (SWD), is an invasive insect pest threatening the economy of many small fruit farms in the Americas and Europe. Biological control using parasitoids is a promising strategy for improving the sustainable management of SWD. To use the parasitoids as biocontrol agents, recognizing and understanding the presence and preference of North American native parasitoids and their local adaptation is necessary. We conducted 2 season-long field explorations of North American native parasitoids of SWD during 2021 and 2022 at major blueberry-producing locations in southeast GA, USA. A total of 371 parasitoids of Drosophila were collected using fruit-baited sentinel traps and classified into 3 families: Figitidae, Pteromalidae, and Diapriidae. Leptopilina boulardi (Hymenoptera: Figitidae) and Pachycrepoideus vindemmiae (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) were the most abundant species. The abundance of parasitoids was higher during the peak blueberry ripening period through the end of the harvest season compared to all other phenological stages. Out of the North American native parasitoids of SWD that we collected, Pachycrepoideus vindemmiae successfully parasitized SWD in its natural habitat, and L. boulardi only parasitized SWD larvae at a low rate of 7% in the laboratory, but it failed to emerge from all the parasitized SWD. Ultimately, we found that the existing North American native parasitoids were inadequate to suppress the SWD in these locations. Planned intervention with the classical release of Asian native specialist parasitoids in addition to the existing SWD management approaches was deemed necessary in these areas.

Isolation and identification of native Chilean entomopathogenic fungi and their potential for the control of Drosophila suzukii

Drosophila suzukii is an invasive pest of berries and other soft-skinned fruits, was first detected in Chile in 2017, and has since spread over 2,800 km from north to south. Sustainable control of the spotted-wing drosophila (SWD) is essential due the negative attitude of the consumers toward the excessive use of insecticides. During a survey in Chile for biological control agents, thirty-two isolates of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) were isolated from mycotized insects and soil samples, identified through sequence analysis, and tested against D. suzukii adults under laboratory conditions. The EPF identified are Akanthomyces muscarius, Beauveria bassiana, Beauveria pseudobassiana, Clonostachys rosea, Metarhizium alvesii, Metarhizium brunneum and Metarhizium robertsii. Six isolates caused 100 % of mortality of D. suzukii adults within ten days after the initial exposition to conidia; these included four B. bassiana isolates (LSB 110, LSB 114, LSB 122 and LSB 125), one M. robertsii isolate (LSB 115) and one M. brunneum isolate (LSB 127). LSB 122 and LSB 125 induced the shortest lethal time (LT50 4 and 4.2 days, respectively), while Akanthomyces and Clonostachys caused ≤ 36 % cumulative mortality of the adults at 10 days of exposure. These results indicate that isolates of B. bassiana, M. robertsii and M. brunneum have significant potential as microbial control agents against D. suzukii adults. This study marks a critical step forward in identifying and validating native entomopathogenic fungi in Chile for sustainable pest management. Future work will focus on further testing these isolates under laboratory, semi-field and field conditions to optimize their application in real-world agricultural settings.

The hindgut microbiota of coconut rhinoceros beetles (Oryctes rhinoceros) in relation to their geographical populations.

The coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB, Oryctes rhinoceros) is a palm tree pest capable of rapidly expanding its population in new territories. Previous studies identified a digestive symbiosis between CRB and its gut microbes. However, no research compared the genetic variation of CRBs with their hindgut microbiota on a global scale. This study aims to investigate the genetic divergence of CRB and the compositional variation of CRB's microbiota across different geographical locations, and explore the association between them and their predicted functional profiles and environmental data. The research reveals a distinct and consistent microbial community within local populations, but it varies across different geographical populations. The microbial functional profiles linked to the production of digestive enzymes, including cellulases and ligninases, are nonetheless globally conserved. This suggests that CRBs employ specific mechanisms to select and maintain microbes with functional benefits, contributing to host adaptability, stress tolerance, and fitness. The CRB microbial communities did not appear to recapitulate the genetic variation of their hosts. Rather than depend on obligate symbionts, CRBs seem to establish similar digestive associations with whatever environmentally acquired microbes are available wherever they are, aiding them in successfully establishing after invading a new location.IMPORTANCECoconut rhinoceros beetles (CRBs) are notorious pests on Arecaceae plants, posing destructive threats to countries highly reliant on coconut, oil palm, and date palm as economic crops. In the last century, CRBs have rapidly expanded their presence to territories that were once free of these beetles. The United States, for instance, has officially designated CRBs as invasive and alien pests. Given their remarkable ability to swiftly adapt to new environments, their gut microbes may play a crucial role in this process. While the microbiota of CRBs vary depending on geographical location, these beetles consistently exhibit a functionally identical digestive association with locally acquired microbes. This underscores the significance of CRB-microbe association in shaping the adaptive strategies of this agricultural pest.

Prediction of number of generations of serpentine leaf miner, <i>Liriomyza trifolii</i> (Burgess) (Agromyzidae: Diptera) in India assessed by CLIMEX under climate change scenario

The serpentine leaf miner, Liriomyza trifolii, is an invasive pest that affects plants, causing damage to the leaves and reducing crop yield. Number of generations of serpentine leaf miner was assessed under current and expected future climate change scenarios. The assessment was done for Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP 8.5) future climate change scenario in India. L. trifolii would have had 16-19 generations, in base line and 17-24 in 2050-time frame under future climate change in Andhra Pradesh conditions. Under Arunachal Pradesh conditions, it would have had 6-14 generations in base line and is expected to complete the same number of generations in 2050, scenario. Under Sikkim conditions 3 - 4 and 5 number of generations were assessed for present and future climate change scenario. Suitability of the localities was expressed in terms of Ecoclimatic index (EI) ranging from 0 to > 20 by combining the interaction effect of various stress indices and growth indices for the development of L. trifolii. It was observed that in temperate areas the pest incidence may increase in future, in contrast to the decreasing trend in areas where already the prevailing temperatures are near upper thresholds. It is therefore expected that number of generations of L. trifolii would increase with the rising temperatures under climate change situations.