Sustainable Pest Management Research Articles

Prohydrojasmon treatment of Brassica juncea alters the performance and behavioural responses of the cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae

AbstractPlants encounter a myriad of biotic and abiotic stresses throughout their life cycle, among which aphids pose a significant challenge as herbivorous insect pests. Aphids cause both direct damage through feeding and indirect damage by transmitting viruses. Given the growing concerns about insecticide resistance and the non‐target effects of synthetic insecticides, there is an urgent need to develop novel pest control strategies that are dependent on plant defence strategies. In this study, we assessed the effects of exogenous prohydrojasmon (PDJ), a derivative of jasmonic acid, at 24 h (PDJ24) and 48 h (PDJ48) post‐treatment on the cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae L. (Hemiptera: Aphididae), feeding on Brassica juncea L. (Brassicaceae). The impact of PDJ treatments was assessed by conducting performance bioassays (survival and fecundity) and behavioural bioassays (settlement and attraction to volatiles in an olfactometer). Our findings reveal that the exogenous application of PDJ did not significantly affect on the performance and behaviour of B. brassicae at 24‐h post‐treatment. However, PDJ treatment significantly reduced the performance of B. brassicae at 48‐h post‐treatment, and affected the behaviour in terms of reduced settlement on and attraction to volatiles of PDJ‐treated plants. These results suggest that PDJ has the potential to effectively induce defences in Brassica against sucking pests. This study provides valuable insights into possibility of employing PDJ as an alternative approach for sustainable pest management in agriculture.

Investigating Spodoptera spp. diversity, percentage of attack, and control strategies in the West Java, Indonesia, corn cultivation

Abstract Corn, a crucial food crop in Indonesia, faces significant challenges from pests such as Spodoptera spp., impacting agricultural productivity and industrial applications. This study aimed to study the diversity and attack percentage of Spodoptera spp. on corn plants, along with the employed control techniques. The research was conducted using a survey method through field observation and farmer interviews. The insect sampling was carried out by purposive sampling, while the sampling of plants using the diagonal sampling method was done in three areas that were representative of the West Java province, Indonesia (Sumedang Regency, Cirebon Regency, and Bandung Regency). The results showed that Spodoptera frugiperda or fall armyworm has emerged as a dominant pest in all three areas. The diversity index (H′) of S. frugiperda across the Cirebon Regency, Bandung Regency, and Sumedang Regency was consistently low (<1). Varying infestation rates across districts, with the Cirebon Regency showing lower rates and Bandung and Sumedang Regencies exhibiting medium-level infestation. Farmers in Bandung and Sumedang Regencies are adopting a more diverse pest management strategy, including the regular monitoring and manual collection of larvae. In addition, the survey shows a positive relationship between the knowledge, skills, and attitude of farmers, suggesting that acquiring more information and understanding agricultural techniques contribute to effective task execution and foster positive mindsets. This comprehensive investigation sheds light on the regional variations in Spodoptera spp. dynamics, providing valuable insights for sustainable pest management in the corn cultivation of the West Java Province, Indonesia.

Characterization and Evaluation of Native Bacillus thuringiensis Isolate T121 Toxic to Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)1

Abstract The present study focused on the molecular characterization and toxicity analysis of the Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt) isolate T121 against Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata (F.) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). Colonies of T121 growing on solid media were circular, with creamy white hues and raised centers. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the presence of cuboidal and spherical crystals in liquid media. Polymerase chain reaction screening confirmed the presence of binary toxin vip1 and vip2 in addition to cry3Aa gene. Sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed four prominent bands at 74, 65, 48, and 31 kDa. In toxicity assays, T121 exhibited a median lethal concentration of 4.675 µg/ml against H. vigintioctopunctata. These findings demonstrate that the Bt isolate T121 offers promising prospects for development as a component of a sustainable pest management strategy against H. vigintioctopunctata and perhaps other coleopteran pests.

Size-dependent effect on controllable release and field insecticidal efficacy of diamide insecticide polylactic acid microspheres delivery systems against Ostrinia nubilalis

New nano/microcarriers of pesticides represent a highly promising novel field for sustainable pest management. However, despite extensive laboratory research, few studies on the design and evaluation of nanopesticides for field applications exist. In this study, we present a straightforward and green synthetic method of ultrasonic-assisted and hydrogen-bonded self-assembly at the oil-water interface for the synthesis of polylactic acid (PLA) microspheres encapsulating chlorantraniliprole (CAP), with precise control over the size of the microspheres. The resulting CAP-loaded PLA microspheres (CAP-PLA MS) exhibit both high pesticide encapsulation efficiency and stability in natural environments. It has been determined that non-Fickian diffusion mainly controls pesticide release, thus enabling dynamic control over molecular transport speeds. Importantly, our functional CAP-PLA MS demonstrates superior sustained pesticide release performance under both laboratory and field conditions while maintaining better exceptional insecticidal efficacy than normal CAP in controlling O. nubilalis at a concentration of 30 or 45 g/ha. Consequently, we propose that our functional PLA microspheres could serve as ideal pesticide carriers in the sustained treatment of O. nubilalis.

Green Lacewing Chrysoperla externa Is Attracted to Volatile Organic Compounds and Essential Oils Extracted from Eucalyptus urograndis Leaves.

Plant herbivore interactions have long been recognized as a complex interplay influenced by various factors, including plant volatile emissions. Understanding the role of these volatiles in mediating plant predator interactions is crucial for developing sustainable pest management strategies. This study investigated the olfactory preferences of Chrysoperla externa larvae for volatiles emitted by Eucalyptus urograndis leaves, focusing on both seedlings and essential oils (EOs). We used Y-tube olfactometry to compare larval preferences between the clean air and various plant treatments, including undamaged and herbivore-damaged leaves. Chemical analysis of EOs revealed higher concentrations of oxygenated monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes in young and damaged leaves, particularly linalool, which has been implicated in insect attraction. Our results showed a significant preference for volatiles emitted by young damaged leaves over clean air for both seedlings (χ2 = 11.03, p = 0.001) and EOs (χ2 = 9.76, p = 0.002). Chrysoperla externa larvae are significantly attracted to specific volatiles from damaged E. urograndis leaves, suggesting these compounds could serve as cues for natural enemy foraging. Our findings enhance the understanding of plant-predator dynamics and suggest potential applications of eucalyptus plantations to sustain C. externa populations for biocontrol purposes.

Estimation of Biochemical Parameters in Brown Planthopper <i>Nilaparvata lugens</i> (Stal) Infested Rice Plants

Biochemical analysis of healthy and brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens damaged rice plants across three varieties, viz., Pusa 1509 and Pusa 1121 (Basmati varieties prevalent in cultivation in North India) and the susceptible variety TN-1 revealed substantial variations in the chlorophyll, carotenoid, protein, flavonoid contents and relative water content in infested plants. These alterations serve as vital indicators of pest severity, aiding in cost-effective pest management. Assessing the impact of BPH over 20 and 40 days after infestation (DAI) highlighted significant reductions in chlorophyll, carotenoid, and protein levels. Flavonoid content initially increased after infestation but decreased with high BPH stress after 40 DAI. Relative water content decreased, indicating sustained adverse effects of BPH on rice plants. These findings underscore the susceptibility of physiological traits to BPH stress, urging further research for sustainable pest management to ensure global food security.

<i>Bacillus thuringiensis</i> Isolates and their Cry Genes Toxic to Chickpea Pod Borer <i>Helicoverpa armigera</i> (Hubner) from Ethiopia

Helicoverpa armigera (Hubn) is one of the most destructive insect pests of chickpea in Ethiopia. For sustainable management of insect pests of food crops, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a widely used bioinsecticide. This study was aimed at exploring indigenous Bt isolates that harbour cry genes to control H. armigera. Ten indigenous Bt isolates were analyzed for their cry genes. Accordingly, all the indigenous Bt isolates were observed to harbour two or more cry genes. Statistically significant (p<0.05) variations were observed among Bt species in influencing larval incidence, pod damage (%) and grain yield (t/ ha). Three potential indigenous Bt isolates were identified with their respective cry genes that included KDL (cry2 + cry4), AUGHS-1 (cry1 + cry4), and AUSD-1 (cry1 + cry2 + cry4 + cry7, 8 + cry9). Indigenous Bt isolates exhibited a strong potential in the management of chickpea pod borer. Development of commercial bioinsecticide and other Bt technologies using B. thuringiensis from Ethiopian sources will be a new avenue to be addressed.

Harnessing Koelreuteria paniculata Seed Extracts and Oil for Sustainable Woolly Apple Aphid Control

The woolly apple aphid—WAA (Eriosoma lanigerum Hausmann, 1802) poses a significant threat to intensive apple production. Given the limitations of conventional synthetic pesticides, there is an urgent need for effective and sustainable pest management strategies. Botanical extracts derived from plants with insecticidal properties mitigating aphid populations without adverse environmental impacts are scarce where WAA is concerned. Thus, the pertinent study aimed to investigate the aphicidal potential of Koelreuteria paniculata seed ethanolic extract (derived from the seed coat) and mechanically extracted oil (derived from the seed itself). At concentrations of 2.5% and 5%, both solutions expressed undeniable insecticidal potential, providing absolute (100%; oil) or significant (86–100%; ethanolic extract) mortality rates both in vivo and in vitro. Predominant phenolic compounds determined in the ethanolic extract were gallic and protocatechuic acids and three derivates—p-coumaric, quercetin, and luteolin acid derivates—contributing to more than 90% of the total phenolic content, while phenolic compounds were not detected in the oil, indicating activity of different active compounds. Although deriving from different seed parts and distinct extraction methods, both ethanolic extract and oil exhibited significant aphicidal effects against WAA. The integration of botanical extracts from invasive species into pest management practices supports ecological balance and sustainable agricultural productivity, fostering a healthier environment and more resilient agricultural systems.

Bioefficacy of Mucana pruriens extracts against Rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

In the agricultural sector, the rice weevil, Sitophilous oryzae L. is one of the most damaging pests, causing significant economic losses worldwide. It is an internal feeder of grains. The female rice weevil causes damage to the grain by creating a hole in it and laying her eggs inside. The main purpose of our study was to investigate the biological effect of an aqueous extract of Mucana prurienson rice weevil under laboratory conditions. To assess the biological activities, data like number of the days to adult emergence, total adult emergence, percent infestation, weight loss, adult longevity, and adult sex ratio were recorded. The findings showed that, in the case of a 100 mg/ml plant extract, the maximum number of days needed for the adult emergence of rice was 66 and 72 days for wheat weevil, and the minimum number of days required was 20 and 25 in case control of both rice and wheat grains. When rice grains were treated with 0 mg/ml aqueous extracts, the maximum number of adult emergences observed was 72 on rice grains, while 66.00 occurred on wheat grains. The highest percentage of infestation (40.00%) was found in rice grains, while the highest percentage (39.78%) was found in wheat grains treated with 0 mg/ml aqueous extracts. The lowest weight loss (7.99%) was observed in rice grains and the highest weight loss (16.66%) in wheat grains treated with 100 mg/ml extracts; on the other hand, the lowest weight loss (13.33%) was observed in rice grains and the highest in wheat grains treated with 0 mg/ml aqueous extracts. When weevils were raised on untreated rice and wheat grains, the longest recorded adult lifespan was achieved overall. For rice weevil control that is safer, plant aqueous extracts with concentrations of 100 mg/ml and 75 mg/ml ought to be utilized. The present studies were carried out to examine the environmentally friendly aqueous extracts of Mucana pruriens and their pesticidal efficacy in controlling rice weevil. The study anticipates that Mucana pruriens extracts will exhibit significant insecticidal properties, potentially providing a natural alternative to synthetic insecticides. This study contributes to sustainable pest management strategies for stored grains.

Safety of the Entomopathogenic Fungus Beauveria bassiana for Wild and Laboratory-Reared Chrysoperla lucasina Strains.

The need to reduce the impact of plant protection products on agroecosystems fosters the use of augmentative biological control involving the release of beneficial species into the field, the employment of entomopathogenic microbials, and the protection of naturally occurring biocontrol agents. This study aimed to investigate the compatibility of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana with the generalist insect predator Chrysoperla lucasina, in comparative experiments involving a laboratory-reared and a wild chrysopid strain. The larvae of the predators were exposed to different concentrations of fungal conidia up to a concentration of 107 conidia/mL by contact and ingestion. The treated insects showed only slight differences in terms of survival and immature development time compared to the untreated control insects. A significant decrease in the proportion of the male adults of C. lucasina that emerged from the laboratory-reared larvae that were exposed to higher concentrations of the fungus suggested a potentially different susceptibility between the sexes. A slightly lower adult emergence rate was observed in the wild strain, while no significant differences were recorded in the adult reproductive performance. These findings indicate that the B. bassiana strain ATCC 74040, at concentrations commonly used in the field, did not pose a significant risk to C. lucasina and can be safely used in combination with this predator for sustainable pest management.

Nematicidal Activity of Volatiles against the Rice Root-Knot Nematode and Environmental Safety in Comparison to Traditional Nematicides.

The rice root-knot nematode (RRKN), Meloidogyne graminicola Golden and Birchfield 1965, is a dangerous crop pest that affects rice production on a global scale. The largest rice-producing countries struggle with the impacts of RRKN infestation, namely, underdeveloped plants and a reduction in rice grain that can reach up to 70% of crop yield. In addition, the shift to strategies of sustainable pest management is leading to a withdrawal of some of the most effective pesticides, given the dangers they pose to the environment and human health. Volatile metabolites produced by plants can offer safer alternatives. The present study characterized the nematicidal activity of volatile phytochemicals against the RRKN and compared the most active with commercial nematicides concerning their safety to the environment and human health. Rice plants were used to grow large numbers of RRKNs for direct-contact bioassays. Mortality induced by the volatiles was followed for four days on RRKN second-stage juveniles. Of the 18 volatiles tested, carvacrol, eugenol, geraniol, and methyl salicylate showed the highest mortalities (100%) and were compared to traditional nematicides using (eco)toxicological parameters reported on freely available databases. While methyl salicylate had a faster activity, carvacrol had more lasting effects. When compared to synthetic nematicides, these volatile phytochemicals were reported to have higher thresholds of toxicity and beneficial ecotoxicological parameters. Ultimately, finding safer alternatives to traditional pesticides can lower the use of damaging chemicals in farming and leverage the transition to agricultural practices with a lower impact on biodiversity.

Endophytic entomopathogenic fungi as biological control agents of insect pests.

Entomopathogenic fungi capable of establishing mutualistic endophytic relationships with plants have a tremendous potential as biocontrol agents of insect pests. While fungi have long played an important and highly effective role in pest suppression, the utility of endophytic entomopathogenic fungi in pest management is a relatively new and emerging topic of biocontrol. Here we discuss the relevance of endophytic fungi to plant health in general, synthesize the current knowledge of the effectiveness of endophytic entomopathogenic fungi against diverse insect pests, discuss the indirect plant-mediated effects of endophytic entomopathogenic fungi on arthropods, and describe the diverse benefits of endophytic fungi to plants that are likely to affect herbivores and plant pathogens as well. Lastly, we consider major challenges to incorporating endophytic entomopathogenic fungi in biocontrol, such as their non-target effects and field efficacy, which can be variable and influenced by environmental factors. Continued research on endophyte-insect-plant-environment interactions is critical to advancing our knowledge of these fungi as a sustainable pest management tactic. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

The combined effect of sublethal concentrations of insecticides and local entomopathogenic nematode isolates on larval and pupal stages of Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

The black cutworm (BCW), Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is an economically significant pest affecting numerous crops and turf grasses. Despite employing various methods, such as chemical and biological control, to mitigate this pest, the efficacy of these methods often fails to reach the desired level. Hence, the integration of diverse strategies is a key to sustainable management. In this study, we assessed the toxicity of four insecticides (indoxacarb, pyridalyl, lufenuron, and methoxyfenozide) and three local EPN isolates (two isolates of Heterorhabditis indica and one of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora) in targeting the fifth instar larval (L5) and pupal stages of BCW. After demonstrating their potential use in BCW control, we explored the combined use of sublethal concentrations of insecticides (LC15 or LC30) alongside the LC20 values of EPNs. The findings revealed that lufenuron and methoxyfenozide, when combined with EPNs, exhibited a synergistic effect on the L5 stage of BCW, whereas the same combination displayed antagonism on pupae. On the other hand, the combination of indoxacarb and pyridalyl with EPNs demonstrated a synergistic effect on the pupal stage of BCW. These results highlight the potential of employing a combination of insecticides and EPNs at sublethal concentrations to control BCW effectively. This approach shows promise for designing sustainable pest management strategies within the framework of integrated pest management (IPM).

Use of Biological Agents to Control the Number of Halyomorpha halys Stål

Background: Halyomorpha halys Stål, commonly known as the brown marmorated stink bug, poses a significant threat to various crops, necessitating repeated seasonal insecticide applications for control. However, these methods carry environmental and human health risks. Considering these concerns, there is a pressing need to explore alternative, eco-friendly approaches to managing H. halys populations. This study sets out to investigate innovative strategies that minimize reliance on harmful chemicals while still effectively controlling the stink bug menace. By delving into the realm of sustainable pest management, the aim is to develop methods that strike a balance between pest control efficacy and environmental stewardship. This study aims to explore eco-friendly approaches to managing H. halys populations.Methods: The research involved monitoring the population dynamics of H. halys in the central zone of the Krasnodar Territory, Russia. It also evaluated the efficacy of local parasitic insects Pediobius cassidae and Anastatus bifasciatus in reducing pest infestations, conducted laboratory tests on the insecticidal properties of essential oils from plants such as wormwood, coriander, and Siberian fir, and performed field trials on biological control agents.Results: Infestation rates by parasitic insects remained relatively low, ranging from 5-10%. Laboratory experiments demonstrated the potent insecticidal properties of essential oils derived from wormwood, coriander, and Siberian fir. Field trials further confirmed significant mortality rates of H. halys specimens when exposed to biological control agents.Conclusions: The study underscores the potential efficacy of utilizing parasitic insects and plant-derived essential oils in managing H. halys populations. These findings offer practical insights for promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the central zone of the Krasnodar Territory.Keywords: Brown marmorated stink bug; Biorational insecticides; Essential oils

Trends in poisoning associated with the use of insecticides for bed bug infestations: a 20-year retrospective study in France

Bed bugs are pervasive global pests that have reemerged in the last 20 years as a significant public health concern, especially in densely populated urban areas. Beyond financial losses, expenses, inconvenience, and psychological distress, bed bug infestations often necessitate chemical management, posing poisoning risks to those with an infestation. The French Poison Control Centers recorded 1056 cases of exposure to bed bug insecticide products between 1999 and 2021. This study followed cases over 2007–2021, with a notable surge in reports of adverse reactions from 2016 onwards. Data revealed an increased recurrent misuse of insecticides, including substances banned or not approved for this use. Our findings underscore the growing public reliance on chemical insecticides for home bed bug management. With this is the concern of increased poisoning risks, and potential long-term health consequences from non-professional efforts by the public to manage bed bugs in their homes. This escalating trend emphasizes the need for safer and more sustainable pest management strategies in urban environments.

Effective control of Varroa destructor mites with Juniperus excelsa, Juglans regia, Origanum onites, and Mentha spicata leaf extracts: a study of honey bee colonies

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of plant leaf extracts from Juniperus excelsa (J. excelsa), Juglans regia (J. regia), Origanum onites (O. onites), and Mentha spicata (M. spicata) in controlling Varroa destructor (V. destructor) mites, a major cause of honey bee colony loss. This research seeks to identify eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives for pest control in beekeeping practices. Forty honey bee colonies naturally infested with mites were selected. The colonies were divided into five groups, one control group and four treatment groups, which received varying concentrations of the plant leaf extracts. This study was conducted in two phases: determining the optimal dosage and conducting a field study during autumn and spring, during which the mite infestation levels were evaluated using the powdered sugar method. The powdered sugar method revealed that a 25% concentration of plant leaf extract was the most effective. In the autumn treatment, the efficacy rates were 87% for J. regia, 86% for J. excelsa, 83% for O. onites, and 68% for M. spicata. During spring treatment, rates were slightly reduced but remained promising, with 66% for O. onites, 63% for J. regia, 61% for J. excelsa, and 55% for M. spicata. This study highlights that plant leaf extracts offer a viable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional therapies for controlling Varroa in beekeeping when used at the appropriate dosage. This research provides valuable insights into sustainable pest management and the potential for innovative, environmentally friendly pest control solutions based on aromatic plant products.

Expression and Functional Characterization of Oryzacystatin II Protein from Oryza sativa L. Indica Rice and Its Potential Role as a Bioinsecticide Against Major Insects of Rice.

Rice (Oryza sativaL.) is a crucial staple food crop globally, facing significant challenges from various pests that affect crop productivity and quality. Conventional pesticide usage has limitations, necessitating the development of sustainable pest management strategies. This study focuses on the expression, purification, and functional characterization of Oryzacystatin II (OC-II), a protein derived from O. sativaL. Indica rice, with the intent to evaluate its potential as a bioinsecticide against rice pests. The OC-II gene was expressed and purified, and purification confirmed its molecular weight (∼12 kDa) and protein sequence through LC-MS/MS analysis and Western blotting. The IC50 value of OC-II was calculated as 0.06 μM, and the inhibition was identified as a competitive inhibition. The protein exhibited efficient control of both pests at the nymph and adult stages, with lower probing marks observed on treated plants. The inhibition of cathepsin B enzyme activity in insects further confirmed the bioactivity of the OC-II protein. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations provided insights into the interaction between the OC-II protein and cathepsin enzymes reported in BPH and WBPH. Further investigations can focus on optimizing production methods and exploring the specificity and efficacy of the OC-II protein against other crop pests to enhance its practical applications.

Isolation and characterization of a native strain of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana for the control of the palm weevil Dynamis borassi (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in the neotropics

This study aimed to isolate and characterize a native strain of Beauveria bassiana, coded as Bv065, showcasing its potential as a biological control agent targeting the palm weevil Dynamis borassi. Originating from a naturally infected D. borassi specimen collected in southwestern Colombia, the fungus underwent molecular identification and was identified as B. bassiana, exhibiting high sequence similarity with known reference strains. The physiological characterization revealed that Bv065 thrived within a temperature range of 25 to 30 °C and a pH range of 6 to 9. Moreover, the key carbon sources that allow optimal growth of the strain were identified through metabolic profiling, including sucrose, D-mannose, and γ-amino-butyric acid. These findings offer strategic insights for scalability and formulation methodologies. Additionally, enzymatic analyses unveiled robust protease activity within Bv065, crucial for catalysing insect cuticle degradation and facilitating host penetration, thus accentuating its entomopathogenic potential. Subsequent evaluations exposed Bv065’s pathogenicity against D. borassi, causing significant mortality within nine days of exposure, albeit exhibiting limited effectiveness against Rhynchophorus palmarum. This study underscores the importance of understanding optimal growth conditions and metabolic preferences of B. bassiana strains for developing effective biopesticides. The findings suggest Bv065 as a promising candidate for integrated pest management strategies in neotropical regions, particularly for controlling palm weevil infestations in coconut and peach palm cultivation. Future research avenues include refining mass production methodologies, formulating novel delivery systems, and conducting comprehensive field efficacy trials to unlock the full potential of Bv065 in fostering sustainable pest management practices. Overall, this study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on entomopathogenic fungi and their pivotal role in biological control, offering nuanced perspectives on eco-friendly alternatives to conventional insecticidal interventions.

Feeding specialization shapes the bottom‐up effect of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi across a plant–aphid–parasitoid system

Societal Impact StatementArbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) impact the relationships between plants, aphids (insects that feed on plant phloem), and their natural enemies (insects that prey on or parasitize aphids). The presence of AMF influences the growth and population of different aphid species and affects the development of aphid‐killing wasps and their attraction to plants. This research has been conducted also considering the insects' feeding strategy and their feeding specialization. This study provides novel perspectives on how these fungi shape interactions in the natural world, offering potential insights for the development of sustainable pest management strategies in agriculture.Summary Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are major root symbionts regulating plant physiology. Their presence affects the performance of aboveground insect herbivores in relation to their feeding strategy and their feeding specialization. For example, the effect of the arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis on chewing insects, positive for specialists and negative for generalists, has been previously demonstrated. Conversely, the impact of AMF on phloem‐suckers with relatively different levels of specialization remains unexplored. We tested the influence of the AM Funneliformis mosseae on the fitness of the specialist aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum and the generalist aphid Myzus persicae on Vicia faba plants. Further, we investigated the effects of AMF on the higher trophic level, the aphid parasitoids Aphidius ervi (specialist) and Aphidius colemani (generalist), by evaluating plant attractiveness and parasitoid fitness. To support the results of behavioral and biological bioassays we characterized the photosynthetic parameters, the volatilome and the transcriptome of tested plants. Mycorrhizal plants proved unsuitable for the generalist M. persicae but enhanced the fitness of the specialist A. pisum. The AM symbiosis had no effects on the behavioral response of A. colemani and enhanced the attraction and fitness of A. ervi. Volatilome and transcriptome profiling corroborated the results of bioassay highlighting a bottom‐up effect of the AMF across a plant–aphid–parasitoid system.

Cold tolerance and metabolism of red-haired pine bark beetle Hylurgus ligniperda (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) during the overwintering period.

Hylurgus ligniperda invaded Shandong, China, through imported forest timber, posing a threat to China's forest health. Exotic insects with broad environmental tolerance, including low temperatures, may have a better chance of surviving the winters and becoming invasive. Understanding the cold-tolerance strategies of H. ligniperda may help to design sustainable pest management approaches. In this study, we aim to investigate the cold-tolerance ability and relevant physiological indicators in overwintering H. ligniperda adults to determine any possible overwintering strategies. Supercooling points (SCPs) for adults H. ligniperda differed significantly across months and reached the lowest level in the mid- and post-overwintering period, the minimum SCPs -6.45 ± 0.18 °C. As the cold exposure temperature decreased, the survival rate of adults gradually decreased, and no adult survived more than 1 day at -15 °C, and the LLT50 for 1 day was -7.1 °C. Since H. ligniperda adults can survive internal ice formation, they are freeze-tolerant insects. Throughout the overwintering period, the SCPs and the water, protein, sorbitol, and glycerol content in adults decreased initially and then increased. We reported significant correlations between total protein, sorbitol, trehalose, and glycerol content in the beetles and SCPs. Glycogen, lipid, protein, trehalose, and sorbitol content in adult beetles may directly affect their cold-tolerance capacity and survival during winter. This study provides a physiological and biochemical basis for further study of metabolism and cold-tolerance strategies in H. ligniperda adults, which may help predict population dynamics and distribution potential of pests.