Pest Management Practices Research Articles

Response of the tomato leaf miner Phthorimaea absoluta to wild and domesticated tomato genotypes.

Phthorimaea absoluta, a highly destructive invasive pest, poses a significant threat to tomato production globally. Exploring alternative control methods, such as host plant resistance can contribute to diminish reliance on insecticides and promote sustainable integrated pest management (IPM) practices. Thus, the identification of new P. absoluta-resistant tomato cultivars and potential wild sources for breeding programmes remains imperative. We evaluated the effect of 19 tomato genotypes, comprising 16 domesticated varieties and three wild tomato species, on oviposition output of female P. absoluta, as well as on larval performance under no-choice conditions using detached leaves. We also characterized and quantified glandular and nonglandular trichomes, exploring their potential correlation with the response of P. absoluta to the tomato plants. Generally, fewer eggs were oviposited on domesticated plants, whereas the wild tomatoes Solanum arcanum and S. neorickii and the domesticated tomato Corona F1 impaired larval development. The pest larvae consumed a limited area of leaflets from S. arcanum and S. neorickii compared to other genotypes, leading to the lowest weights in both male and female pupae. All tomato plants exhibited a prevalence of nonglandular over glandular trichomes, except for S. arcanum, which exhibited a higher abundance of glandular trichomes. Although higher trichome density correlated with longer larval settlement on the leaflets, it did not influence female oviposition. Our findings demonstrate that the wild tomatoes S. arcanum and S. neorickii could be considered as potential sources for breeding programmes, and the domesticated Corona F1 could offer IPM options against P. absoluta. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

The economic, social, and environmental impact of ecologically centered integrated pest management practices in East Africa

Agricultural pest management faces mounting challenges with increasing pressure to reduce chemical pesticide use while ensuring food security, and environmental sustainability. Ecologically centered approaches, such as integrated pest management (IPM), offer promising sustainable agroecological crop protection alternative solutions to pesticides. This study assesses the investment viability and environmental sustainability of two IPM interventions—mango fruit fly IPM (FF-IPM) and push-pull technology (PPT) in Kenya and Uganda, using project investment and adoption data from 2007 to 2021. The study also evaluates these technologies contribution to food security and poverty reduction. FF-IPM integrates biological control, cultural practices, and targeted bait traps to manage fruit flies in mango production, while PPT employs Desmodium and Brachiaria grass to control stemborers and striga weed. The findings highlight that these IPM interventions achieved a combined net present value of $500 million, with a benefit-cost ratio of about 8:1, and an internal rate of return of 21%, comparable to returns from improved crop varieties. These technologies also improved food security for 641,000 people, lifted 445,349 people above the poverty line, representing 2% of the poor population in both countries, and generated an average income increase of $5 per capita in Kenya and Uganda annually. Environmentally, they sequestered 2.7 million tons of CO2 equivalent, valued at $12.2 million, and are reducing pesticide use by 86,000 to 204,000 L per year. These results demonstrate the potential of IPM approaches to simultaneously enhance livelihoods, local economies, and generate global environmental public goods, suggesting that addressing adoption barriers could further amplify these positive outcomes.

NezhNPV, a new biocontrol agent for Nesodiprion zhejiangensis Zhou & Xiao (Hymenoptera: Diprionidae), an emerging forest pest.

Nesodiprion zhejiangensis, a multivoltine sawfly, is widely distributed in south China and has caused serious damage to forests. Historically, N. zhejiangensis management has relied heavily on synthetic chemicals. To reduce the reliance on chemical control, we previously isolated a nucleopolyhedrovirus, NezhNPV, from deceased N. zhejiangensis larvae. A subsequent pathogenicity assay confirmed its high virulence in a laboratory setting. In order to comprehensively examine the hypothesis that NezhNPV is an effective new biocontrol agent for N. zhejiangensis, we carried out a field test in Beijing, China, and characterized NezhNPV morphologically by electron microscopy and genetically by genome sequencing. Our field trials showed that NezhNPV was effective in controlling N. zhejiangensis in a naturally infested Himalayan blue pine forest. The occlusion bodies of NezhNPV consist of irregular polyhedra that occlude rod-shaped enveloped virions with a single nucleocapsid per virion. The NezhNPV genome is 80 637 bp in length, and contains 90 open reading frames, including 38 core, eight lepidopteran baculovirus, 34 hymenopteran baculovirus and 10 unique baculovirus genes, representing the smallest known genome among baculoviruses. The combined results based on phylogenetic analyses, Kimura-2-parameter distances and biological characteristics indicate that NezhNPV is a novel gammabaculovirus and candidate for species status with the provisional name Gammabaculovirus nezhejiangensis. NezhNPV is highly collinear with other gammabaculoviruses and contains nonsyntenic regions with an inversion and rearrangement between orf3 and orf35. The combined results from our field trials, coupled with morphological and genomic characterization clearly demonstrate the bioactivity of NezhNPV. This gammabaculovirus may be included in pest management practices against N. zhejiangensis as a novel biocontrol agent. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

The impact of pesticides: Assessing residue persistence, environmental contamination, and human health risks

The intensification of agricultural practices to meet global food demand has led to extensive pesticide use, which poses significant challenges for food safety, environmental health, and human well-being. This narrative review provides a comprehensive analysis of the global use of pesticides in agriculture, focusing on the persistence of pesticide residues in food crops, their environmental impacts, and the associated health risks. Historically, pesticides have been integral to agricultural productivity, but their adverse effects have become increasingly clear. Notably, pesticide residues in food can pose serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women. This review also discusses regional disparities in pesticide-related health outcomes, with a focus on Brazil. The findings underscore the urgent need for sustainable pest management practices, including organic farming and improved regulatory measures, to mitigate the adverse effects of pesticide use. By integrating these strategies, a more balanced and sustainable agricultural system can be achieved, safeguarding both human health and environmental quality.

Exploring local attitudes towards current and potential future invasive wasp management in Aotearoa New Zealand

ABSTRACT Social support for pest management programs is essential to their success. In this study, we explored stakeholder perceptions of current wasp management and what attempting eradication means for them. Local stakeholders involved in 7 conservation or pest management projects across Aotearoa New Zealand were interviewed. Q-method analysis identified two major perspectives across the participants. A target-driven and ambitious perspective emerged where eradication of invasive wasps was the objective and any control method deemed effective could be used to achieve that goal. Negative impacts of management could be justified by removing the larger negative impact of wasps on the environment. The second perspective identified agreed that wasps must be managed but were characterised as more holistically minded. Control methods perceived to have negative impacts to the wider ecosystem were deemed less acceptable. Education and engagement were highlighted as essential to increase local support for future wasp management. Developing pest management strategies informed by mana whenua is especially crucial, and hapū enabled to draw on their mātauranga Māori may provide new insights into developing effective and acceptable pest management practices. Emphasis not just on technical but social and cultural aspects of wasp eradication and control will be vital for successful wasp management. Glossary of Māori words: Hapū: subtribal group; iwi: tribal group; maramataka: Māori lunar calendar; mātauranga Māori: Māori knowledge systems; mauri: life force or vital essence; taonga: precious thing or treasure; tapu: sacred, restricted or prohibited; te ao Māori: Māori worldview; tohu: a sign or indication; whakapapa: genealogy or line of descent

Bacterial Allies in Agricultural Defense: Evaluating Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus Supernatants Against Phytophthora infestans and Monilinia laxa

Fungal plant pathogens represent a significant threat to global agriculture, affecting crop productivity and food security. Phytophthora infestans and Monilinia laxa are two such pathogens causing blights and brown rot, respectively, in economically vital crops like potato and stone fruits. Developing sustainable management strategies is crucial to mitigate these threats. Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus bacteria produce various secondary metabolites with different biological activities. This study investigates the antifungal activity of cell-free supernatants from Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus bacteria against P. infestans and M. laxa. Results demonstrate varying degrees of antifungal efficacy among bacterial species, with X. cabanillasii and X. szentirmaii exhibiting significant suppression of fungal growth. The findings underscore the importance of exploring biocontrol agents in integrated pest management practices.

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.

SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIES FOR INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT OF BREVICORYNE BRASSICAE IN CABBAGE CULTURE: ECOLOGICAL APPROACHES AND IMPACT ON BIOLOGICAL CONTROL IN MOZAMBIQUE

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea) is a vegetable widely cultivated due to its nutritional and economic value, especially for small farmers. However, kale production faces significant challenges, mainly due to attacks by aphids (Brevicoryne brassicae), a pest that causes wilting and deformations in plants and acts as a virus vector. In regions such as Southern Africa, inadequate control of this pest has resulted in considerable losses in production, reaching 40% in Mozambique.The adult stage of Brevicoryne brassicae is the most damaging, especially affecting the cabbage crop during its vegetative phase, when the plants are most vulnerable. Effective management of this pest involves continuous monitoring and the use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices, which include cultural, biological and chemical methods. Applying these techniques in an integrated way, adapted to local conditions, can significantly reduce damage and improve agricultural productivity, promoting food security and sustainability for small Mozambican farmers.

Enhancing yield and economic benefits through sustainable pest management in Okra cultivation.

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is a prominent vegetable crop in Asia, confronting persistent threats from pests such as leafhoppers, whiteflies, and shoot and fruit borers. Conventional chemical control methods, despite their adverse ecological effects, remain the primary approach for pest management. Indiscriminate chemical use has led to reduced biodiversity among natural predators and the disruption of food webs in ecosystems. To address these challenges, this study assessed the efficacy of integrated (IM) and biointensive (BM) pest management modules in comparison to conventional chemical methods (CM) for mitigating insect damage to okra leaves and fruits, and subsequently, their impact on okra yield. Our result revealed that the BM exhibited the least effectiveness but outperformed untreated control plots significantly. In contrast, both IM and CM significantly reduced damage from sap-sucking insects and borer pests. Notably, plots treated with the chemical module found decreased populations of natural enemies. The IM demonstrated the lowest fruit infestation rate (5.06%), yielding the highest crop production (8.97 t ha-1), along with the maximum net return (Indian Rupees: 44,245) and incremental cost-benefit ratio (3.31). Thus, the study suggested that the implementation of integrated pest management practices can result in higher okra yields and greater economic benefits. These findings shed light on the potential of sustainable agricultural practices as a safer and more economically viable alternative to chemical-intensive pest control in okra cultivation.

Challenges and Adoption of Bivoltine Hybrid Silkworm Rearing in Karnataka's South-Eastern Dry Zone, India

The present study explores the adoption of bivoltine hybrid silkworm rearing practices in the South-Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka, specifically within the Kolar and Chikkaballapur districts. Data collected from thirty sericulturists using a pretested interview schedule, reveal a mixed picture of practice adoption. The adoption levels of recommended practices vary significantly among rearers. While high adoption rates were observed for certain practices, such as the use of recommended mulberry varieties and irrigation techniques, other practices show only moderate adherence. Specifically, cent per cent of the sericulturists have adopted the recommended mulberry variety and 93.33% follow suggested irrigation schedules. However, there is only a 60% adoption rate for the use of prescribed fertilizers and pest management practices. The study also highlights several key constraints impacting the adoption of these practices. Major constraints include limited access to quality inputs, insufficient technical knowledge and inadequate extension services. Financial constraints and environmental challenges further exacerbate these issues, affecting the overall effectiveness of sericulture practices. Recommendations to improve adoption levels include enhancing access to quality inputs, enhancing educational and extension services which talking financial obstacles. By implementing these recommendations, it is anticipated that sericulturists in these region will be better equipped to adopt and benefit from advanced silkworm rearing practices, resulting in greater productivity and long-term sustainability in the sericulture sector.

Sustainable Management of Tetranychus urticae and Trialeurodes vaporariorum on Tomato and Cucumber Plants Using Rhamnolipids and Essential Oil-Based Biocontrol Agents.

Rhamnolipids (RLs), biosurfactants produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, have gained attention for their potential role in pest management. This study investigated the efficacy of RLs in controlling the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) and the whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum), as well as a novel non-commercial essential oil-based product, Petir Kilat, on cucumber and tomato plants within a controlled greenhouse environment. The RLs were tested at concentrations of 1 mL/L and 2 mL/L, compared to commercial biopesticides including abamectin (ABAMAX) and Beauveria bassiana (NATURALIS). The results indicated that ABAMAX achieved the highest mortality rates for T. urticae and T. vaporariorum, with 100% mortality observed at 7 days. NATURALIS was also highly effective, particularly for whiteflies, though its efficacy declined over time. RLs showed a dose-dependent increase in mortality, with the higher concentration (2 mL/L) yielding more promising results, though not surpassing the commercial products. Petir Kilat, derived from orange essential oils, demonstrated significant control, particularly at higher concentrations, comparable to or exceeding the effectiveness of NATURALIS and ABAMAX in some cases. Statistical analyses revealed significant differences between treatments in most cases (p < 0.05). The findings underscore the potential of RLs and Petir Kilat as components of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. While RLs are effective, their performance suggests they are best used in combination with other control methods. The study highlights the need for further research to optimize the application of RLs and essential oil-based products to enhance their role in sustainable pest management practices.

Understanding farmer options, context and preferences leads to the co-design of locally relevant agroecological practices for soil, water and integrated pest management: a case from Kiambu and Makueni agroecology living landscapes, Kenya

Agroecology, as a holistic approach to sustainable food systems, is gaining momentum globally as a key approach to addressing current challenges in agricultural and food production. In sub-Saharan Africa, despite numerous efforts to address declining soil productivity, water scarcity, and increasing pest pressure through agroecological soil, water, and integrated pest management (IPM) practices, the adoption of such practices remains low. As part of the CGIAR Agroecology Initiative, we conducted a collaborative rapid innovation assessment of existing soil, water, and pest management practices in two Agroecological Living Landscapes (ALLs) in Makueni and Kiambu counties, Kenya. The assessment also included an evaluation of the performance of these practices and identified farmer preferences. Using a multi-stage approach, we applied stratified random sampling to identify 80 farmers for farm assessments and in-depth interviews. A total of 31 practices were identified, of which 26 were further evaluated. The evaluation revealed a heterogeneous set of socio-economic and biophysical contextual factors influencing practice performance. Respondents identified 19 strengths, and 13 challenges associated with the practices, highlighting opportunities for innovation to improve or adapt performance. Farmers also expressed preferences for future adoption of 31 practices, 77% of which were listed in one of the three focus areas, namely soil management, water management, or IPM. The other 33% were associated with multiple functions and were listed under two or three of the focus areas. The results of the collaborative assessment informed a broader co-design cycle that included participatory prioritization and selection of innovative practices, experimental design, and monitoring protocols. This collaborative and systematic approach was taken because innovative practices often fail to be adopted due to a lack of co-design and inclusion of local perspectives in innovation design, and a disconnect between science and practice. Our study highlights the importance of integrating stakeholder input and transdisciplinary technical expertise in the co-design and implementation of agroecological innovations. It also emphasizes the importance of using a structured methodology to understand farmers’ options, context, and preferences while co-designing locally relevant agroecological practices, which promotes holistic and inclusive adoption, successful implementation and long-term sustainability of agroecological practices.

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.

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.

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.

Geospatial share of fungicide resistant Botrytis cinerea mutations in the Tokaj and Eger wine regions according to local pest management strategies

AbstractBotrytis cinerea is one of the fungal pathogens with the widest host plant spectrum, causing serious yield losses and significant economic damage in vineyards from year to year. As an ubiquitous, polyphagous fungal pathogen, with both saprophytic and parasitic lifestyle. The sequential use of active substances belonging to the same chemical family to protect vineyards can lead to an increase in fungal chemical resistance, which is reflected in the enrichment of point mutations in the genomic regions coding proteins involved in the mechanism of action of different pesticides. The aim of our studies was to compare the sensitivity to different fungicides of B. cinerea populations in two wine regions with different pest management practices: the Tokaj region, where the presence of B. cinerea is necessary to produce noble rot wines, and the adjacent Eger Region, where a total protection against B. cinerea is desired. Our study is the first Hungarian report of some previously studied resistance mutations in ERG27 and SDHB protein-coding genes. We identified point mutations in ERG27 transmembrane domain that have not been previously described but may affect the emergence of resistance to certain fungicides. Our study shows that the B. cinerea population of the Northern Hungary region is consistently characterized by an increase in fenhexamid resistance.

Content Analysis of Knowledge and Adoption of Climate-resilient Cotton Production Practices among Dryland Farmers

Cotton is a vital crop for smallholder farmers in India, particularly in the rainfed regions of Andhra Pradesh. The dryland farming is vulnerable to climate change, water scarcity, and soil degradation, leading to reduced crop yields and decreased livelihood security. Critical interventions like conservation agriculture, micro irrigation, and integrated nutrient management are essential to address these challenges. Despite their importance, the adoption of these interventions among dryland farmers remains limited. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and adoption of critical interventions among dryland farmers in cotton cultivation. The results showed that 75-100% of farmers had knowledge about basic practices like sowing time, seed rate, and spacing, while 50-75% knew about pest and disease management practices. However, only 25-50% were aware of drought mitigating measures, and 0-25% knew about advanced practices like micro irrigation and anti-transpirants. The adoption of critical interventions was also low, with 75-100% adoption of basic practices, 50-75% adoption of pest and disease management practices, and 25-50% adoption of drought mitigating measures. The study highlights the need for awareness and training programs to improve the knowledge and adoption of critical interventions among dryland farmers. The findings suggest that there is a significant knowledge and adoption gap among dryland farmers, particularly regarding advanced practices. Addressing this gap is crucial to enhancing the livelihoods of dryland farmers and promoting sustainable cotton production in the region.

Adoption of Sustainable Cotton Farming Practices: A Pathway to Eco-Friendly Agriculture

Cotton is one of the key cash crops in Pakistan, significantly contributing to the economy and supporting the livelihoods of the farming community. However, this promising sector faces major threats from global warming and climate change. A study was conducted in District Muzaffargarh to assess the adoption of sustainable cotton farming practices. This area was chosen as it is a major cotton-producing region in Pakistan. A total of 270 cotton growers were randomly selected for data collection. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Additionally, five focus group discussions were conducted to gather qualitative insights. The results revealed that a limited number of cotton varieties were cultivated in the region, with SS, CKC, IUB, BS, and NIAB being the most common. An overwhelming majority of the farmers had cotton fields of up to 5 acres. Hand sowing was the most common planting method. Among water stewardship practices, irrigation after weather forecasts, cleaning of watersheds, and reduced use of flood irrigation were prevalent. In terms of soil improvement practices, foliar spraying, soil analysis, reduced pesticide usage, and reliance on farmyard manure were widely adopted. Regarding Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices, rotavating crop residue, proper disposal of cotton sticks, the use of recommended pesticide doses, and the application of appropriate active ingredients were the most common practices.

Adoption status of integrated pest management (IPM) practices among vegetable growers of Lamjung district of Nepal

The widespread use of highly toxic pesticides for agricultural purposes has raised concerns about their hazardous impact on both human health and the environment. Integrated pest management (IPM) is a strategy designed to tackle pest problems and reduce pesticide use, with the aim of protecting both human health and the environment. This study was conducted in Besishahar, Sundarbazar, Rainas, and Madhyenepal municipalities of the Lamjung district of Nepal in the year 2023 with a sample of 100 vegetable-growing farmers to assess the adoption of IPM practices in vegetable cultivation. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data, and the logit model was used to identify the factors affecting the adoption of IPM practices in vegetable cultivation among farmers. Respondents were grouped into two categories, adopter and non-adopter, based on the extent of adoption of IPM practices. The findings revealed that only 37 % of the total respondents adopted IPM practices for vegetable cultivation. The easy availability of chemical pesticides and lack of bio-pesticides were the major constraints for the adoption of IPM practices in the study area. The output of the binary logit model indicated that greater participation in training, higher education levels, and increased contact with extension agents significantly influence the adoption of IPM practices in vegetable cultivation. The findings could be used to formulate better policies towards increasing the adoption of sustainable approaches in agriculture and regulation.

Evaluation of selected crops for rearing predatory mite (Phytoseiulus persimilis), a predator of two-spotted red spider mites

The damage caused by two-spotted spider mites, and the risks associated with chemical pesticides, including health and environmental risks necessitate the exploration of sustainable pest management methods. Predatory mites, such as Phytoseiulus persimilis, are effective biocontrol agents against pests like the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae). Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the suitability of different crops for rearing predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis) and assess their effectiveness in controlling two-spotted spider mites (Tetranychus urticae). Linear regression analysis showed significant effects of selected crops on mite populations across all collection times (Collection 1: F (3, 8) = 22.46, p = 0.0003; Collection 2: F (3, 8) = 11.45, p = 0.0029; and Collection 3: F (3, 8) = 9.17, p = 0.0057). ANOVA showed significant differences in mite counts among the crops (F (3, 32) = 18.06, p < 0.001), corroborated by bootstrapping analysis. Beans demonstrated the highest potential for supporting predatory mite populations, followed by eggplant and black nightshade, illustrating that crop diversification can enhance predatory mite production while suggesting adoption of Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to reduce pesticide costs and environmental impacts. There is the need for collaborative research and policy support to drive innovation and promote sustainable pest management practices in agriculture, thus addressing pesticide-use related environmental issues.