Pesticides Research Articles

Using new approach methodologies for the identification of a sensitizing co-formulant in a plant protection product.

Using new approach methodologies for the identification of a sensitizing co-formulant in a plant protection product.

Spatial analysis of uptake and accumulation of metalaxyl, spirotetramat, and spirotetramat-enol in maize at the micrometer scale using HPLC-HRMS and MALDI-MSI.

Spatial analysis of uptake and accumulation of metalaxyl, spirotetramat, and spirotetramat-enol in maize at the micrometer scale using HPLC-HRMS and MALDI-MSI.

Toxicological effects of chemical pesticides in fish: Focusing on intestinal injury and gut microbial dysbiosis.

Toxicological effects of chemical pesticides in fish: Focusing on intestinal injury and gut microbial dysbiosis.

Interpretable machine learning unveils key predictors and default values in an expanded database of human in vitro dermal absorption studies with pesticides.

Interpretable machine learning unveils key predictors and default values in an expanded database of human in vitro dermal absorption studies with pesticides.

Is the detection of phosphonic and ethyl-phosphonic acid in organic wines an evidence of fosetyl-Al application in organic vineyards?

Is the detection of phosphonic and ethyl-phosphonic acid in organic wines an evidence of fosetyl-Al application in organic vineyards?

Joint toxicity and control efficacy of chemical pesticides and insecticidal bacteria against Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Joint toxicity and control efficacy of chemical pesticides and insecticidal bacteria against Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

The nematicidal activity of Bacillus thuringiensis Cry1Ia36 expressing in Escherichia coli.

The nematicidal activity of Bacillus thuringiensis Cry1Ia36 expressing in Escherichia coli.

The accurate and reliable HPLC-UV based method for detecting the active ingredient hexaflumuron in some plant protection products.

The main objective of this study was to present a new selective, sensitive, and validated RP-HPLC analytical method for measuring the concentrations of hexaflumuron (HFM) which is a well-known active ingredients that is widely used as an insecticide to protect crops, especially fruits and vegetables. Quantification was carried out using a reversed phase HPLC system that was equipped with a UV detector. The development of the novel method was performed on reversed-phase C-18 (stainless steel, 5 µm, 250 × 4.6 mm) column at constant temperature 30 ºC. The mobile phase consists of acetonitrile and distilled water in volumetric ratio 85:15, a flow rate of 1 mL/min, and the detection wavelength at 220 nm. Retention time of separation at 3.84 min. The method was validated by testing specificity, linearity, precision, recovery, LOD, LOQ, and accuracy according to the CIPAC (Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council) and comply with the guidelines of SANCO/3030/99 rev.5. guidelines. The method revealed an acceptable linearity regression R2 (0.9974). The method was found to be accurate from concentration levels 50–250 µg/mL with high accuracy (99.3-100.7%). The method’s validation results make it suitable for use as a standardization tool in the evaluation of Emulsion Concentrate formulations containing this active ingredient.

Assessment of Agricultural Runoff and Its Impact on Riverine Water Quality near Ubali Village, Nagpur District

This study presents a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of agricultural runoff on riverine water quality near Ubali Village, located in Kalmeshwar Taluka of Nagpur District, Maharashtra. Agricultural intensification in this rural region, characterized by unregulated use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, has led to concerns over nutrient and microbial pollution in adjacent water bodies. Systematic water sampling was conducted during pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons at three key locations: upstream (control), midstream (adjacent to agricultural fields), and downstream. Standard methods as prescribed by APHA were employed for physico-chemical and microbial analysis. The results revealed elevated levels of nitrate (up to 38 mg/L), phosphate (up to 6.2 mg/L), BOD (up to 80 mg/L), and total coliforms (as high as 2100 MPN/100mL) at downstream sites during monsoon, exceeding CPCB standards

Bioinsecticide effect of Metarhizium anisopliae on termite pests Microtermes lepidus and Psammotermes hybostoma, in the laboratory

In Senegal, many studies have shown the economic importance of termite damage to crops. The majority of farmers use dangerous chemicals on human beings, animals, crops, soil, and environment health. Thus, the use of entomopathogenic fungi would be an effective and environmentally eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticide use. The objectives of this study are to i) carry out infestations in the laboratory, ii) determine the lethal time (LT50) and iii) observe the germination of spores on the corpses of these species. The methodology is based on i) the infestation of 10 workers of Microtermes lepidus and Psammotermes hybostoma with Metarhizium solutions, ii) the monitoring of mortalities, iii) the determination of the lethal time 50 (LT50) and iv) germination of spores on corpses. For the determination of LT50, the concentrations of 1 g/L and 1.5 g/L gave an LT50 of less than one day in workers of Microtermes lepidus and Psammotermes hybostoma. For the concentration of 0.5 g/l, the LT50 is 2.5 days for workers of Psammotermes hybostoma and less than one day for those of Microtermes lepidus. Incubation revealed the appearance of spores on the cadavers, which were given a concentration of 0.5 g/l. This study shows that mortality is related to the concentration of the solution. The higher the concentration, the shorter the LT50 time. The bioinsecticide effect of Metarhizium anisopliae is not immediate, resulting in an LT50 of 1 to 2 days, depending on the species.

Pesticide risk assessment for seed treatments: review of the updated EFSA bird and mammal guidance.

Seed treatment technology allows a targeted application of plant protection products (PPPs) to protect crop seeds and emerging seedlings from soil-borne pests and diseases. This highly focused application of seed treatments highlights their potential as a precision application tool resulting in reduced pesticide use and exposure to non-target organisms compared to overspray, while supporting efficient crop production. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recently published an updated risk assessment guidance for birds and mammals (EFSA, 2023), including a scheme for seed treatment uses. Here, we present illustrative risk assessment results according to EFSA (2023) based on active substance toxicity data and seed treatment specific commercial use patterns according to Good Agricultural Practice (GAP). Our results demonstrate a high failure rate at Tier 1 and higher tiers, resulting in the need for weight of evidence for the majority of products to further refine the assumed risk to birds and mammals. We discuss these high failure rates in the context of an apparent mismatch between implicit assumptions of the EFSA (2023) risk assessment scheme and anticipated real-world field conditions, with agronomic practices linked to modern sowing technology and the ecology of species not being realistically reflected. Aiming towards a harmonized evaluation of seed treatment uses by different Member States, we propose how the risk assessment scheme could be adapted by including more realism at Tier 1 and higher tiers. The development of precision agriculture and associated review of risk assessment procedures offers regulators and risk managers a timely opportunity to consider these proposals to the risk assessment scheme for crop seed treatments.

Harnessing native entomopathogenic nematodes for sustainable pest control in North African agroecosystems

Abstract In North African agroecosystems, pests pose a significant threat to food security. Although chemical pesticides are often efficacious, their deleterious effects on the environment, human health, and non-target organisms have raised concerns. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) harbor intestinal bacteria that target detrimental pests, which make them a sustainable alternative. Among EPNs, Steinernema spp. and Heterorhabditis spp. are the most studied species owing to their ecological potential and capacity to target a diverse range of pests, including beetles, weevils, whiteflies, plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs), and other agricultural pests. To date, the critical classification, ecology, and efficacy of EPNs for managing pests at small and large scales across North African countries remain unexplored. This review addresses this gap by providing insights on EPNs identification, diversity, host interactions, and pest management applications across North Africa.

Digital pesticide: a comprehensive pesticide information database with dynamic web platform for artificial intelligence applications.

Pesticides are crucial for protecting crops from pests and diseases to meet the growing global food demand. In the era of artificial intelligence (AI), computer-aided approaches have the potential to significantly enhance the efficiency and safety of pesticide design. The application of these methods depends on comprehensive and accurate pesticide data, essential for developing effective pesticides. However, there remains a lack of integrated and user-friendly databases to display complete information on pesticides. Digital Pesticide is a comprehensive online platform, containing information on over 2000 pesticides, each with nearly 200 curated attributes. These include identifiers, chemical properties, agrochemical data, regulatory guidelines, environmental impact assessments, and potential human health effects. A web-based user interface has been developed to facilitate efficient data management and access. This open-access platform allows users to browse, search, and download information according to their specific needs. Digital Pesticide is free to use on https://dpai.ccnu.edu.cn/digpesticide/. Digital pesticide is a comprehensive pesticide database with a dynamic web platform and it is the cornerstone of the drive for sustainable agricultural development and management. It bridges a critical gap in pesticide research and is expected to serve as a key resource for global pesticide and pest management. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.

Evaluation of the potential toxicity of plant extracts, pathogenic fungi, and chemical pesticides for the management of Spodoptera frugiperda

Fall armyworm, S. frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a highly invasive and polyphagous pest. The current study aims to utilize effective, environmentally friendly, and safer products for combatting insects while reducing the use of chemical agents. The toxicity of plant extracts (camphor, castor, and oleander), fungi (T. harzianum), and chemical control (emamectin benzoate) against the third larval instar of S. frugiperda was evaluated under laboratory conditions. Data showed that the oleander extract at a concentration of 20 g/l was the most toxic among the tested extracts, recording an 86.6% mortality (LC50 = 7.04 g/l). T. harzianum also showed high effectiveness against S. frugiperda, recording an 80% mortality (LC50 = 2 × 107conidia/ml) at both 6 × 10⁷ and 8 × 107 conidia/ml concentrations. Emamectin benzoate exhibited toxicity on S. frugiperda larvae, with 100% mortality recorded (LC50 = 0.21 g/l), at a concentration of 0.8 g/L.

Bioprotection of the Button Mushroom from Pests and Diseases

Commercial production of the button mushroom, Agaricus bisporus (Lange) Imbach, is threatened by various pests and mycopathogenic microorganisms. Sciarid flies (Sciaridae) of the genus Lycoriella are considered as major pests, while major pathogens include the fungi Lecanicillium fungicola (Preuss), Zare and Gams, Hypomyces perniciosus Magnus, Cladobotryum spp., and Trichoderma aggressivum Samuels & W. Gams, the causative agents of dry bubble, wet bubble, cobweb, and green mold diseases, respectively. Control of mushroom pests and diseases has long relied on synthetic chemical pesticides. Pesticide resistance and various health and environmental issues have created a need for sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to the use of synthetic chemical pesticides for mushroom pest and disease control. The concept of bioprotection, which involves using biological control agents (BCAs) and biopesticide products, offers a viable alternative. The entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema feltiae (Filipjev) and predatory mite Stratiolaelaps scimitus (Womersley) are the most important invertebrate BCAs, while the bacteria Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner, B. amyloliquefaciens, and B. velezensis stand out as the most widely used microbial BCAs/biopesticides. Azadirachtin- and pyrethrum-based products are the most important biochemical biopesticides. Bioprotection agents require inclusion in the integrated pest and disease management (IPDM) programs in order to achieve their full effectiveness.

Development of a spatial risk indicator for monitoring residential pesticide exposure in agricultural areas

The global increase in pesticide use has raised concerns about its impact on biodiversity, ecosystems, and human health, in particular of people living near agricultural areas. This study explores the assessment of pesticide exposure and risks to residents at a high spatial granularity using plant protection product data. Our objective was to develop an indicator to monitor pesticide risk levels faced by residents in France by integrating spatial datasets and exposure assessment methodologies. Using spatialized pesticide sales data based on crop authorizations, we mapped potential pesticide loads at the parcel level. This map, combined with population distribution data, allowed us to develop an indicator for monitoring residential pesticide exposures. Our findings indicate that, on average, 13% of people in France may be exposed to various levels of pesticides due to their proximity to treated crops. This indicator demonstrates the usefulness of granular pesticide sales data in monitoring exposure and can support risk reduction strategies, helping to identify regions where efforts towards sustainable farming should concentrate.

Insecticidal Activities of Diterpene Alkaloids in Plants of the Genera Aconitum and Delphinium.

As the global population grows, food security and agricultural productivity face challenges, and insect pests cause significant losses to crops. The effectiveness of traditional chemical pesticides is declining, and eco-friendly pesticides need to be developed. Diterpenoid alkaloids (DAs), natural products of plant origin, have attracted attention due to their low environmental risks. Here we review the classification, structure, insecticidal and anti-feeding activities of diterpenoid alkaloids, as well as the current state of research on these chemicals. Studies have shown that C19- and C20-diterpenoid alkaloids show significant activity against a variety of insects, but there are still limited studies on C18-diterpenoid alkaloids. Therefore, through in-depth research on diterpenoid alkaloids, we have discovered that there are various compounds with high efficiency and specificity in insecticidal and antifeedant activities among C19- and C20-diterpenoid alkaloids, which exhibit high selectivity and efficiency towards target pests. This paper emphasizes the potential of diterpenoid alkaloids as novel biopesticides and highlights the need to combine new technologies to conduct further systematic evaluation and screening of these compounds. This work provides new ideas for the development of environmentally friendly pesticides and contributes to sustainable agricultural practices.

Harnessing the bio-adhesive power of natural deep eutectic solvents for trichome-inspired pest control

The carnivorous Drosera species employ hair-like appendages called trichomes that secrete a deadly adhesive consisting of an acidic polysaccharide, sugars, organic acids, and water to capture prey insects. Here, we develop a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides using hyaluronic acid in a sugar-based natural deep eutectic solvent to mimic the composition and trapping mechanism of the Drosera mucilage. We formulate trichome biomimetic adhesives that become sprayable with added water to lower their viscosity, which can then regain the required adhesiveness as water evaporates up to the equilibrium content. Using a custom indentation setup, we measure promising adhesion energies between 9.5–14.5 µJ over one week, along with the formation of elongated fibrils (>2.3 cm) for the best-performing sample. Additionally, the material shows no phytotoxicity for over two weeks and effectively immobilizes western flower thrips through multiple contact points with the material in Petri dish bioassays, highlighting its efficacy and trapping mechanism akin to natural trichomes.

Tomato Growers' Perception of Parasitic Wilt Diseases and the Impact of Cultural Practices on the Management of these Diseases in Côte d'Ivoire

Aims: Analyze cultivation practices, grower’s perception of parasitic wilt diseases to identify the limitations of current approaches and proposing sustainable agroecological alternatives. Study Design: Tomatoes are one of the most important vegetable crops in Côte d'Ivoire and are widely consumed in daily meals. However, its production faces major constraints, notably parasitic wilt diseases, which limit its ability to meet the growing demand for this commodity. Place and Duration of Study: Sample: the main tomato production zones, covering five agro-ecological zones (AEZs) in Côte d'Ivoire, between February and August 2024. Methodology: A semi-structured questionnaire survey was carried out among 150 growers in the main tomato-growing areas of Côte d'Ivoire. The information gathered included farmers' socio-economic characteristics, crop practices, and perceptions related to parasitic wilt. These data were supplemented by field observations and then subjected to descriptive analysis and Hierarchical Ascending Classification (HAC) using R 4.4.1, in order to characterize production systems. Results: The results revealed that 81.51% of growers, mostly men (p˂ 0,001), recognized tomato wilt through symptoms such as thinning of the crown. Among them, 38.66% attributed its appearance to the practice of monoculture. Typological analysis enabled us to group production systems into four distinct categories. Although agroecological practices such as crop rotation and organic fertilization are crucial, they remain little, if at all, adopted by growers. Furthermore, the heavy reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, combined with the lack of recourse to biological control, represents a major challenge for a transition to sustainable agroecological systems. Conclusion: This study highlights the need for increased awareness among growers to recognize parasitic wilt and for technical support to promote sustainable practices, including the use of biocontrol agents, to improve productivity while preserving agriculture.

Biocontrol Potential of Entomopathogenic Fungi Against Plant-Parasitic Nematodes: A Caenorhabditis elegans-Based Screening and Mechanistic Study.

Plant-parasitic nematodes and insect pests critically threaten agricultural productivity, but chemical pesticides face limitations due to resistance and environmental concerns, necessitating eco-friendly biopesticides targeting both pests and nematodes. Here, we developed a high-throughput screening platform using Caenorhabditis elegans to identify entomopathogenic fungi exhibiting nematocidal activity against Meloidogyne incognita. Among 32 tested strains, nine Metarhizium spp. and one Beauveria strain demonstrated dual efficacy against C. elegans and M. incognita. Metarhizium anisopliae CQMa421 showed the highest virulence, suppressing nematode reproduction by 42.7% and inducing >80% mortality. Pot experiments revealed a 50% reduction in the root galling index and 50.3% fewer root galls in Solanum lycopersicum. The CQMa421 filtrate caused irreversible locomotor deficits and reduced egg hatching rates by 28%. Concurrently, intestinal damage, elevated oxidative stress and autophagy were observed in C. elegans. This was accompanied by a transcriptome-wide modulation of genes involved in detoxification and immune defense pathways. These findings demonstrate the efficacy of our C. elegans-based screening method for identifying fungi with nematocidal potential. CQMa421's virulence against M. incognita suggests its promise for pest management, while molecular insights highlight pathways that may contribute to the future design of future nematicides. This study advances fungal biocontrol agents and offers a sustainable strategy for agriculture.