Pest Management Research Articles

Melanin, a biopolymer synthesized from tyrosine, plays diverse and essential roles in insect physiology, encompassing immune defense, thermoregulation, and environmental adaptation. This review synthesizes three decades of research (1990–2024) to elucidate the enzymatic pathways, regulatory mechanisms, and adaptive functions of melanin across insect taxa. Key enzymes such as phenoloxidase and tyrosinase mediate melanin biosynthesis and are central to pathogen encapsulation and wound healing, while also contributing to thermal regulation and Ultraviolet Radiation (UV) protection in extreme environments. The review integrates recent advances on hormonal and genetic regulation, emphasizing the roles of juvenile hormones, ecdysteroids, and transcription factors in modulating melanogenesis. It also identifies critical gaps in understanding transcriptional, epigenetic, and environmental regulation of melanin synthesis. By highlighting melanin’s multifunctionality and evolutionary significance, this review provides a framework for future studies linking molecular mechanisms with ecological adaptation and offers potential applications in pest management and insect resilience under climate change.

Crop rotation is a cornerstone practice in sustainable agriculture, it plays a crucial role in enhancing soil fertility, pest and disease management and overall crop productivity. This review is to optimize crop rotation strategies for improving the yield and sustainability of black gram (Vigna mungo L.), a pulse crop highly responsive to rotational practices. By synthesizing recent research, the study examines the effects of crop sequences, intercropping systems and legume-non-legume integrations on both crop productivity and soil health. Methodologically, it adopts a critical evaluation of existing literature to analyze the mechanisms underlying synergistic and antagonistic crop interactions, while also considering modern approaches such as precision agriculture and agroecological principles for refining crop rotation. The key conclusions highlight that crop rotation not only enhances soil fertility and productivity but also plays a pivotal role in pest and disease management. Furthermore, intercropping and integration with non-leguminous crops significantly improve black gram growth and yield while sustaining soil quality. The review emphasizes that precision-driven and ecologically grounded strategies present promising opportunities for fine-tuning rotations and future research to further adapt and refine these approaches for sustainable legume production.

In recent years, semiochemical-based approaches have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional pesticides, offering sustainable solutions for pest management. Integrating semiochemicals into agricultural practices provides innovative strategies to tackle pest-related challenges. Notable advancements include the “lure and infect” method, which combines pheromones with entomopathogenic fungi to attract pests and enhance pathogen efficacy, and the auto-dissemination approach, which facilitates the spread of microbial pathogens within insect populations, effectively controlling pests such as the fall armyworm. Additionally, the concept of plant defense induction through interactions with phytophagous predators offers a novel avenue to increase crop resistance. The production of insect pheromones in plants further contributes to sustainable pest control by interfering with pest mating behaviors. Tools such as electroantennography have proven valuable for elucidating insect olfactory responses, aiding in the identification of effective semiochemicals. Strategies like push-pull systems manipulate pest behavior using plant-derived compounds, while advanced pheromone dispensers ensure controlled and long-lasting release. Collectively, these developments underscore the potential of semiochemicals to redefine integrated pest management, promoting environmentally friendly and effective pest control solutions. Continued research and innovation are essential to optimize these approaches and fully realize their role in sustainable agriculture.

Xenarthrans─armadillos, anteaters, and sloths─are endemic to the Americas, primarily inhabiting the Neotropics, where they represent a key component of faunal diversity. They have essential functions for ecosystem maintenance, such as insect control and nutrient cycling, playing key roles as ecosystem engineers. Despite their frequent occurrence in archeological and paleontological contexts, their identification is often hindered by the highly fragmented and morphologically indistinct nature of bone remains. This limits our ability to track their biogeographic histories, population dynamics, and interactions with past human populations. To address this, we present a novel set of Zooarcheology by Mass Spectrometry (ZooMS) peptide markers for ten extant and extinct Xenarthran species, enabling taxonomic identification of fragmented and morphologically indistinct bone assemblages. By enhancing the taxonomic resolution of fragmented faunal material, this work advances the reconstruction of past species distributions, long-term biodiversity trends, and human-animal interactions. Furthermore, it provides a foundation for an improved understanding of Xenarthran extinction and adaptation dynamics and can support conservation and ecosystem restoration efforts by informing models of historical biogeography and species abundance.

Abstract This study documents the recent occurrence of Sophonia orientalis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) on avocado ( Persea americana ) crops in the Gharb and Loukkos regions of northwest Morocco. Species identification was validated through morphological examination of male genitalia and DNA analysis using standard barcoding techniques . The Two spotted leafhopper S. orientalis is a polyphagous and invasive pest native to Southeast Asia, and it has been recorded in various locations around the world. In Morocco, the area planted with avocados is constantly increasing due to the crop's profitability. However, the emergence of leafhoppers poses significant phytosanitary threats to growers. Identification based on male genitalia features and confirmation by DNA sequencing revealed infestations of S. orientalis , with high sequence identity (99.11%–100%) to reference sequences in GenBank. Field surveys from March to September 2024 showed that S. orientalis infestations were mostly found in areas between Moulay Bousselham and Sidi Allal Tazi, with up to 50% of the inspected avocado orchards indicating its establishment in those regions. Although no crop losses have yet been reported in Morocco due to S. orientalis , its confirmed establishment in a significant proportion of avocado orchards and its invasive nature in other regions justify the early implementation of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. Coordinated efforts among agricultural authorities, researchers, and farmers are essential to safeguard Morocco's avocado industry while maintaining sustainable agricultural practices.

Abstract The western cedar bark beetle ( Phloeosinus punctatus LeConte) colonizes giant sequoia ( Sequoiadendron giganteum (Lindl.) J. Buchh.) branches and may build up large populations in broken or shed branches and woody debris, necessitating a possible need for intervention strategies. This study evaluates tarping treatments for managing P. punctatus populations in recently fallen branches in giant sequoia forests. A field experiment tested beetle emergence from debris piles relative to tarping treatments (covered or uncovered by a 4 mm clear polyethylene tarp) using a paired design, and the effects of several environmental factors on emergence were modelled. Tarping treatment resulted in a 53% reduction in mean beetle emergence; standardized beetle emergence was 9.8 ± 2.6 beetles/kg in the treatment group, 19.2 ± 5.6 beetles/kg in the control group and an average of 14.5 for the study. Mean temperatures were 21.8°C in tarped piles, compared to 19.7°C in control piles, indicating that tarping altered the thermal environment to impact emergence. No emergence occurred when the mean ambient temperature exceeded 24°C. Canopy openness also affected mean temperature in debris piles, with temperatures increasing sharply under more open canopy conditions. These results suggest that tarping is a simple and cost‐effective treatment for reducing P. punctatus populations in giant sequoia debris and may be a useful tool in integrated pest management strategies targeting this species.

Background: The larva of Ariadne merione, commonly known as the Common Castor Butterfly, is a voracious feeder of Ricinus communis (castor plant), significantly reducing crop yield. Due to the scarcity of updated information on its lifecycle and morphometrics, this study was conducted in 2023 to understand its developmental stages and identify vulnerable phases for pest management. Methods: Eggs collected from the field were reared on castor leaves, monitored daily, and data on lifecycle, growth, and behaviour were recorded and analyzed. Result: The durations of the egg, first, second, third, fourth, fifth instar, and pupal stages were 2.022±0.839, 2.422±0.499, 2.156±0.475, 2.444±0.586, 2.622±0.650, 3.867±0.786, and 5.500±0.762 days, respectively. Morphometric measurements recorded were: Egg-1.261±0.134 mm diameter; first instar-2.618±0.286 mm length, 0.613±0.092 mm width; second instar-4.554±0.660 mm length, 1.311±0.228 mm width; third instar-8.341±1.294 mm length, 2.736±0.402 mm width; fourth instar-11.751±3.125 mm length, 3.62 ±0.922 mm width; fifth instar-19.322±3.290 mm length, 5.201±0.789 mm width; pupa-18.208± .095 mm length, 6.347±0.320 mm width. The larvae became intensive feeders from the third instar, causing severe damage such as extensive defoliation. Therefore, control measures should be initiated from the neonate stage to minimize yield loss.

The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), is one of the major pests of Brassica crops worldwide, causing significant economic losses. Using resistant plant genotypes is a promising strategy for integrated pest management, as it reduces reliance on chemical insecticides and helps mitigate resistance development. This study evaluated the resistance mechanisms of different collard green (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) genotypes to P. xylostella. Both antixenosis and antibiosis were investigated through oviposition preference tests and biological performance assessment. According to the results, there was significant variation between the genotypes. Some genotypes exhibited strong oviposition deterrence, while others affected larval survival, development time, and pupal weight. These resistance effects were associated with physical and morphological leaf traits. Genotypes 32 GUA and HS showed reduced attractiveness for oviposition and inhibited larval development and survival. These traits were linked to higher leaf wax load, increased leaf hardness, and specific leaf color parameters. These findings indicate that resistance in collard greens to P. xylostella is mediated by a combination of physical and morphological factors, such as plant substrate color, leaf hardness, and surface wax content. Identifying and utilizing resistant genotypes can contribute to the integrated management of P. xylostella and reduce the need for chemical control measures. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Comparative transcriptomics reveal universal and compound-specific mechanisms of insecticide response in the mulberry looper (Phthonandria atrilineata).

Metabolic and microbial responses of Ceratitis capitata to essential oil-based nano-emulsions: Implications for pest management.

Effects of Beauveria bassiana on immune responses in the silkworm, Bombyx mori: focus on haemocyte dynamics.

First synergistic application of nanocarrier-loaded metaflumizone and parasitic wasps: A high-efficiency green pest control strategy.

Key structural attributes of Mediterranean reforestations for avian diversity conservation: comparisons with mature forests.

Systena frontalis (Fabricius) is a serious pest of panicled hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata Siebold) and various other ornamental plant species in container ornamental nurseries. Effective season-long management strategies are essential, particularly in nursery settings where drench applications of insecticides offer a potential method for targeting the larval stages. Several insecticides, such as isocycloseram, cyantraniliprole + thiamethoxam, chlorantraniliprole, flupyradifurone, and tolfenpyrad are currently available or expected to become available for use. However, their efficacy, when applied as growing media drenches, has not been thoroughly evaluated. The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of isocycloseram, cyantraniliprole + thiamethoxam, flupyradifurone, and tolfenpyrad against S. frontalis larvae through drench applications to container media. Results from 2024 showed that high rates of isocycloseram significantly reduced larvae, while lower rates were less effective in the 2025 trial. Although the performance of cyantraniliprole + thiamethoxam was mixed between 2024 and 2025, it effectively reduced larvae in both 2025 trials. Chlorantraniliprole formulation with high active ingredient dose reduced larvae relative to nontreated. In contrast, flupyradifurone and tolfenpyrad failed to reduce larvae following drench application. These findings suggest that drench application of high rates of isocycloseram and cyantraniliprole + thiamethoxam will be a valuable addition to the pest management toolbox for controlling S. frontalis in ornamental container nurseries.

Unravelling the novel mode of action of the spinosyn insecticides: A 25year review.

Microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) offer significant benefits to plants, such as promoting growth and activating immune responses, positioning them as promising tools for crop productivity. However, the mechanisms driving mVOCs-mediated plant growth promotion (PGP) and immunity remain unclear. Here, we demonstrated that VOCs produced by the rapeseed (Brassica napus)-derived endophyte Bacillus velezensis CanL-30 (BvVOCs) simultaneously stimulate PGP and immunity in both Arabidopsis thaliana and rapeseed under controlled and field conditions. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed that 2-heptanone and 2-nonanone in BvVOCs exhibit plant-growth-promoting activity, whereas decane and undecane possess disease resistance-inducing activity in plants. Using metabolomics and transcriptomics, along with genetic and chemical methodologies, we reveal that BvVOCs enhance photosynthetic capacity to promote growth, while jasmonic acid-dependent signalling underpins immunity activation. Furthermore, light intensity significantly influenced BvVOCs effects on PGP and immunity. Crucially, BvVOCs upregulate expression of the GOLDEN2-LIKE (GLK) transcription factors GLK1 and GLK2, and BvVOCs-driven PGP and immunity were lost in glk1glk2 double mutant plants. These findings clarify the molecular basis of Bacillus-based VOCs in boosting growth and disease resistance, underscoring their potential for sustainable pest management in agriculture.

Toxicological effects of azadirachtin on aquatic species: A review of its role in biopesticides.

Disruption of egg and nymph development via RNAi-mediated Glutamine: fructose-6-phosphate aminotransferase knockdown in Locusta migratoria: A promising strategy for pest management.

Transcription factor MaAP-1 regulates conidiation patterns via YAP domain binding to the MaPom1 promoter in Metarhizium acridum: Implications for enhancing fungal biocontrol efficiency.

Towards sustainable insect pest management: A conceptual review using the example of pollen beetles in rapeseed