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Colon cancer is the third most lethal type of cancer in the world. Resistance to chemotherapy remains a serious barrier in the treatment of several forms of cancer, particularly colon cancer. Therefore, it is essential to develop alternative treatment methods. The docking score study of the aervine produced a low dock score for the 2BDF target compared to the 1IKN and 4OAR targets. Comparing the aervine to the reference compounds Capecitabine for 2BDF, Topotecan Hydrochloride for 1IKN and Tamoxifen for 4OAR, the binding affinity of the aervine was found to be higher. Further molecular dynamic simulation results for aervine and reference standard drugs for each cancer types reveals that aervine possess good binding affinity simulation trajectories towards all three cancer targets. The MTT assay revealed that aervine has a highest cytotoxic impact against a colorectal cancer cell line, with an IC50 value of 122.12 ± 1.26µg/ ml. Aervine produces reactive oxygen species, induces caspase-3 pathway in SW480 cells, and promotes apoptosis. This research shows that aervine can be developed as a new 2BDF target inhibitor against colorectal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aphis gossypii Glover (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is among major arthropods causing significant damage to okra in the tropics. Resistant varieties could reduce aphid infestation and increase productivity. This study was carried out to identify aphid-resistant and high yielding okra accessions for management of the pest. Eleven farmers' varieties and four aphid-resistant accessions from AVRDC were evaluated at its Nkolbisson station in Yaounde, Cameroon. Field screening was done to determine resistance to aphids, days to 50% anthesis and days to 50% commercial maturity. Aphid data was expressed as the area under infestation pressure curve and subjected to statistical analysis based on mean (m) and standard deviation (S.D.). Crop cycle and yield data were subjected to analysis of variance. Accession 'VI033824' was the most resistant to aphids (474 ± 41.9 per leaf) with yield 0.76 ± 0.26 t/ ha whereas the yield of the highly susceptible Babungo (1519.8 ± 0.0 aphids) was 1.33 ± 0.07 t/ha, 75.5% higher that the yield of the only resistant variety. Abelmoschus esculatus was less attacked (601.4 ± 60.0 aphids) by aphids than Abelmoschus caillei (826.0 ± 71.6 aphids; df = 1, 41; Pr {>Chi} = 0.037). The yield of A. caillei species were higher (1.26 ± 0.14 t/ha) than A. esculentus species (0.43 ± 0.08 t/ha; df = 1, 41; Pr {>Chi} = 0.0002). Hence, varieties with resistance, tolerance to aphids and earliness could be incorporated into integrated pest management of aphids and enhance productivity of okra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legume pod borer, Maruca vitrata, has emerged as a major pest on food legumes in Asia and Africa. It is an oligophagous pest, feeding on over 70 species in Fabaceae. We examine the species complex in Asia, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas, with an emphasis on molecular taxonomy. Studies on pheromone production and perception suggest the existence of pheromone polymorphism, especially in Asia and Africa. No Maruca-resistant varieties are available in the major food legumes including cowpea, pigeonpea, mungbean, and yard-long bean. Legume growers use chemical pesticides indiscriminately, leading to the development of pesticide resistance. However recent developments in habitat management, classical biocontrol with more efficient parasitoids, biopesticides, and judicious use of insecticides pave the way for sustainable management of M. vitrata, which can reduce the pesticide misuse. Active engagement of the private sector and policy makers can increase the adoption of integrated pest management approaches in food legumes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pieris rapae is a serious pest of brassicas worldwide. We performed de novo assembly of P. rapae transcriptome by next-generation sequencing and assembled approximately 65,727,422 clean paired-end reads into 32,118 unigenes, of which 13,585 were mapped to 255 pathways in the KEGG database. A total of 6173 novel transcripts were identified from reads directly mapped to P. rapae genome. Additionally, 1490 SSRs, 301,377 SNPs, and 29,284 InDels were identified as potential molecular markers to explore polymorphism within P. rapae populations. We screened and mapped 36 transcripts related to OBP, CSP, SNMP, PBAN, and OR. We analyzed the expression profiles of 7 selected genes involved in pheromone transport and degradation by quantitative real-time PCR; these genes are sex-specific and differentially expressed in the developmental stages. Overall, the comprehensive transcriptome resources described in this study could help understand and identify molecular targets particularly reproduction-related genes for developing effective P. rapae management tools. Unlabelled Image • De novo assembly of the Pieris rapae transcriptome yielded 32,118 unigenes. • About 14% of these unigenes were mapped to 255 pathways in the KEGG database. • We identified 6173 novel transcripts, 1490 SSRs, 301,377 SNPs, and 29,284 InDels. • Relative quantification of 7 genes related to sex-pheromone biosynthesis, transport and degradation pathway was performed. • These data can help identify molecular targets for P. rapae control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, Soil erosion is the major land degradation problem, which impacts seriously on economic and environmental status. Geospatial techniques support and provided quantitative approach to estimate soil erosion in different conditions. In the present study, Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) integrated with GIS has been used to estimate soil loss in the part of coastal Odisha system. The study area, Ganjam block have undulating topography covering 0-35% slopes. The quantitative soil loss was estimated and classified into different classes and soil erosion map was generated. The soil erosion map is classified into seven classes from very slight (<5 t ha-1 yr-1) to extremely severe (>80 t ha-1 yr-1). The results indicate that 90.9% (22330 ha) of the study area falls in very low erosion category, which may be due to level topography and regular vegetation cover. The other erosion classes such as moderate, high and very high erosion occurred in the range of 2.12%, 2.23% and 1.49%, respectively. The high soil erosion risk is spatially situated in the foothills and upper steep slope of the area. The results can certainly aid in implementation of soil management and conservation practices to reduce the soil erosion in the coastal Odisha regions of Eastern India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aphis gossypii Glover (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is one of the major pests of okra. Damage severity and high levels of infestation have led to widespread use of chemical insecticides. Okra is ranked fourth in Cameroon among vegetable crops on which chemical insecticides are applied. The objectives of this study were to evaluate resistant okra accessions identified in previous studies, to identify their categories of resistance, and to assess their effects on the non-preference, development, and reproduction of A. gossypii. Results showed that VI041210 was resistant to aphid infestation during the first season, and VI057245 and Gombo caféier were resistant during the second season. Kirikou and VI060794 had the highest yields during the first season, although Kirikou was moderately susceptible to aphid infestation. VI041210 was susceptible to aphid infestation during the second season but produced the highest yield. These results indicate that tolerance occurred in some of the accessions. Aphids did not discriminate between resistant and susceptible accessions, indicating that antixenosis (non-preference) was not a category of resistance found in these accessions. VI041210, VI057245, and Gombo caféier were the most resistant due to lower infestation levels, probably due to their antibiotic properties. Considering constitutive resistance, aphid development was poor, with the longest molting and generation time (To = 15.9) on VI057245 at the vegetative plant growth stage, leading to poor reproduction (lowest intrinsic and finite rates of natural increases: 0.25 and 1.3 aphids, respectively). Considering induced resistance, observed only in VI041210, nymphal development time was longest (14.2 d) leading to one of the lowest net reproductive rates at the vegetative and reproductive plant growth stages, 27.1 and 27.8, respectively. Thus, tolerance and antibiosis were categories of resistance found in these accessions, but antixenosis was not documented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The applicability of C–H functionalization to medicinally important 2-pyridyl-based N-heterocycles suffers from severe challenges owing to the high Lewis basicity of the N-atom. This arrests catalytic activity and yields undesirable positional selectivity due to preferential chelate formation. In this regard, we report a novel palladium(ii)-catalyzed arylation strategy on multiple-N-containing pyridazines by over-riding the functionalization due to a chelated palladacycle. We report a regioselective mono-arylation at the 8-position of diphenyl azolopyridazines without any ortho-C–H activation on the proximal phenyl groups. This methodology presents a broad arylation scope with uncompromised yield and positional selectivity, including the heteroarylation of N-heterocycles, which is an unprecedented feat for these types of molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time in Tajikistan, South American tomato leaf miner, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) was detected in greenhouses and open field environments in Khatlon region and the region of Republican Subordination. Leaf damage, although lower at the beginning of the season, gradually rose to 15-30% in surveyed sites. Fruit damage also gradually increased during the season. Fruit damage was as high as 20% in the locations surveyed, with the exception of Guliston and Ghayrat Jamoats, which had very low fruit damage. Tuta absoluta is becoming established in Tajikistan. Suitable integrated pest management strategies are needed to reduce the incidence of this invasive pest species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetable legumes are important crops in tropical agriculture, but they are susceptible to a substantial number of arthropod pests and diseases. Using farm-level survey data for 240 farm households growing yard-long bean (Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis) in Thailand and Vietnam, this study shows that the farmers' main problem is the legume pod borer (Maruca vitrata). Farmers rely exclusively on the use of synthetic pesticides to manage this pest, and no other control methods are generally applied. Small cultivated areas for growing yard-long bean (particularly in Vietnam), a high level of satisfaction with the use of pesticides and a lack of market demand for pesticide-free produce are formidable challenges to the introduction of integrated pest management (IPM). It is important to ensure that IPM methods, if adopted, do not reduce profits and that farmers are allowed to experiment with these methods while raising awareness in the general population about the risk resulting from pesticide exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Chigurupati Ramachandraiah and Ramasamy Srinivasan argue that special economic zones in India are not pro-poor people centred development but rather are a form of land grab that dispossess rural peasants to the benefit of big capital and the elite. After 60 years of independence, India is experiencing 'social justice in reverse gear' with a failure to uphold the land rights to the poor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Yttrium oxide (yttria) nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by co-precipitation method. As-synthesized and annealed powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), UV–visible (UV–vis), photoluminescence (PL) spectra and Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR). The XRD results show that the as-prepared sample has mixed phase of Y(OH)3 and yttria (Y2O3). However, cubic yttrium oxide phase alone is found for annealed samples. The strain values are calculated from Williamson–Hall (W–H) plot for annealed samples. SEM and TEM micrographs show that the samples are composed of aggregated nanoparticles with different shapes and sizes. From the UV–vis spectra, it is found that the position of the absorption peak is shifted towards the lower wavelength side when particle size decreases. In the PL spectra, the broad emission bands are observed between 340 and 380nm and the presence of metal oxide is confirmed by FTIR spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were synthesized by a hydrothermal process at 120 ∘C. XRD results reveal that the sample product is crystalline with a hexagonal wurtzite phase. TEM results confirm that the morphology of the annealed ZnO is rod shaped with an aspect ratio (length/diameter) of ∼3.2. We also investigate the crystallite development in nanostructured ZnO by X-ray peak broadening analysis. The individual contributions of small crystallite sizes and lattice strain to the peak broadening in as-prepared and annealed ZnO nanoparticles were studied using Williamson-Hall (W–H) analysis. All other relevant physical parameters including strain, stress and energy density value were calculated more precisely for all the reflection peaks of XRD corresponding to wurtzite hexagonal phase of ZnO lying in the range 20∘–65∘, from the modified form of W–H plot assuming the uniform deformation model (UDM), uniform stress deformation model (USDM) and uniform deformation energy density model (UDEDM). The root mean square (RMS) lattice strain calculated from the interplanar spacing and the strain estimated from USDM and UDEDM are different due to consideration of anisotropic crystal nature. The results obtained show that the mean particle size of ZnO nanoparticles estimated from TEM analysis, Scherer’s formula and W–H method are highly inter-correlated. All the physical parameters from W–H plot are tabulated, compared, and found to match well with the value of bulk ZnO. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The interaction between plants and microorganisms plays a major role in plant growth promotion and disease management. While most microorganisms directly influence plant health, some indirectly support growth through pest and disease suppression. Endophytic entomopathogenic fungi are diverse, easily localized, and have long-lasting effects on insect pests. When inhabiting plants, these fungi alter secondary metabolites, volatile organic compounds, and microbiomes, enhancing plant resistance to pests and diseases and sometimes improving growth. However, their persistence in plant systems may be challenged by the plant's defense mechanisms or by human interventions such as insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and phyto-insecticides, which are common in agriculture. As effective biocontrol agents, endophytic entomopathogenic fungi can also be integrated with other pest management strategies like predators, parasitoids, and chemicals. This review will explore the impact of endophytic entomopathogens on plant systems and their compatibility with other management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The legume pod borer is one of the most serious legume pests widely distributed in Asia, Africa, Australia, America, and Oceania. The use of synthetic pheromone lures has been developed as a more environmentally friendly alternative for its control. In this study, we evaluated the potential of the pheromone components as a mating disruption tool under laboratory and small-scale field conditions by identifying effective blends made out of single pheromone components or a different mix of them. The results from the laboratory experiment show that insects challenged with the blend ratio of 1:1:1 had lower fecundity and egg eclosion. A small-scale caged field experiment also showed a significantly disruption of normal mating with the above-mentioned ratio, leading to lower flower and pod damage, and higher mungbean yield. This study provides new evidence about the possibility to use pheromone components for mating disruption; however, more research is needed to determine appropriate ratios of pheromone blend to increase the effect of disruption. From an applied research perspective, more studies are needed to investigated the effectiveness of mating disruption strategy on different legume crops, dispenser types, release points in the field, and compatibility with conventional insecticides as part of an integrated pest management (IPM) combined approach. The legume pod borer (Maruca vitrata) is one of the most serious legume pests due to its wide host range and high damage potential. Pheromone components on M. vitrata have been previously identified, allowing research on more environmentally friendly IPM tools for its control. M. vitrata produces a three-component pheromone blend containing (E, E)-10,12-hexadecadienal (major), (E, E)-10,12-hexadecadienol (minor), (E)-10-hexadecenal (minor). This study focused on the efficacy of synthetic pheromone lures and their blend components for mating disruption in M. vitrata. Under laboratory conditions, the mating behavior of M. vitrata pairs was observed from 18:00 to 02:00 h in an interval of 20 min to assess the efficacy of different pheromone lures. The scotophase behavior results show that the complete pheromone blend (E, E)-10,12-hexadecadienal + (E, E)-10,12-hexadecadienol + (E)-10-hexadecenal with a blend ratio of 1:1:1 effectively disrupted mating. The impact on mating disruption was evident from the lower fecundity and egg hatch/eclosion. The same lures were evaluated in a small-scale caged field study. The results show that the pheromone blend of (E, E)-10,12-hexadecadienal + (E, E)-10,12-hexadecadienol + (E)-10-hexadecenal in a1:1:1 ratio significantly disrupted the normal mating, leading to lower flower and pod damage and higher mung bean yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The legume pod borer Maruca vitrata Fabricius (Lepidoptera, Crambidae) is a key insect pest of cowpea, Vigna unguiculata Walp. The present study was designed to optimize the efficiency of mass rearing two of its biological control agents, the larval parasitoid Liragathis javana (Bhat and Gupta) and ovo-larval parasitoid Phanerotoma syleptae (Zettel), by comparing their performance on M. vitrata hosts reared on sprouting grains of 10 different varieties of cowpea as feeding substrate. Fecundity of M. vitrata and the two parasitoids were assessed per variety. Significant differences were observed between varieties for the development of unparasitzed larvae of M. vitrata and L. javana or P. syleptae-parasitized larvae. The cumulative daily fecundity shows different patterns: higher in IT 84D-449 for M. vitrata and L. javana but higher in Kpodji for P. sylepatae. Mortality of parasitized (by L. javana and P. syleptae) larvae and unparasitized (M. vitrata larvae) was lower in Kpodji variety. No significant differences were observed between male and female proportions (sex-ratio), regardless of insect species and cowpea variety except the varieties Tawa and Vitoco in L. javana. The mass rearing of M. vitrata and its two parasitoids' species could be optimized using some cowpea varieties such as Kpodji and IT 84D-449 for biological control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spoladea recurvalis is one of the most destructive insect pests of amaranth, a leafy vegetable in both Asia and Africa. The present study characterized the pheromone biosynthesis-activating neuropeptide (DH-PBAN) and pheromone/odorant binding proteins in S. recurvalis. The open reading frame of 600 base pairs encodes a 200-amino acid protein possessing five neuropeptide motifs (DH, PBAN, α-, β-, and γ- subesophageal ganglion neuropeptides) and shares a characteristic conserved C-terminal pentapeptide fragment FXPRL. The full-length genome of Spre-DH-PBAN was 4,295 bp in length and comprised of six exons interspersed by five introns. Sequence homology and phylogenetic analysis of Spre-DH-PBAN have high similarity to its homologs in Crambidae of Lepidopteran order. We quantitatively measured the relative expression level (qRT_PCR) of Spre-DH-PBAN gene, the binding proteins such as odorant binding proteins (OBPs) and pheromone binding protein (PBPs) at different developmental stages. The results confirmed their role in recognition and chemoreception of sex pheromone components, and they were distinct, tissue- and sex-specific. This is the first report on the molecular analysis of PBAN gene and binding proteins, which can improve the understanding of molecular mechanisms of growth, development, and reproductive behavior of S. recurvalis, and may become effective targets for controlling this insect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global tomato cultivation faces serious threats from the whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) and the invasive tomato leafminer Tuta absoluta (Meyrick). Identifying new resistant sources and exploring resistance mechanisms is crucial for long-term management of these rapidly spreading insects. This study evaluated antixenosis and antibiosis resistance in wild tomato accessions of Solanum cheesmaniae and Solanum galapagense through trichome characteristics and various assays, revealing resistance to B. tabaci (Asia II 7 biotype) and T. absoluta. Wild accessions resulted in reduced oviposition, increased adult mortality of whiteflies, fewer whitefly developmental stages, disrupted leafminer developmental stages, and reduced adult emergence. Moreover, high densities of type-IV glandular trichomes in wild accessions correlated negatively with the resistance parameters of both insects, influencing their preference and performance. Variations in resistance parameters were identified between wild and cultivated accessions, with S. galapagense (VI063117-10) demonstrating superior resistance. This study emphasizes the significance of understanding resistance traits in wild accessions to manage pest insects with diverse feeding behaviors and utilize them in developing multiple insect-resistant tomato varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato yellow leaf curl Thailand virus (TYLCTHV) has caused serious yield loss of tomato in Thailand for more than three decades. Control of the virus is essential for successful integrated disease management (IDM) strategies. This study investigated the capability of whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) to transmit TYLCTHV on two host plants—tomato and pepper—and sought to detect the presence of viral DNA in the plants and whiteflies after two transmissions. The new TYLCTHV isolate used in this study (SPN-Tom1A) was 2756 nts long with typical characteristics of TYLCTHV DNA-A. Viral DNA-A (WF-SPN Tom2015) also was detected in viruliferous whiteflies; nucleotide sequence revealed 99% identity to TYLCTHV SPN-Tom1A sequence. In duplicated transmission test, vector B. tabaci Asia I was highly efficient in transmitting TYLCTHV from tomato to tomato by 90-100%, followed by the transmission from tomato to pepper by 55-90%. In contrast, the transmission rate of TYLCTHV pepper to tomato seedlings was nil. Tomato plants showed upward cupping and yellow leaves typical of TYLCTHV infection only when TYLCTHV was transmitted from tomato to tomato, but when transmitted to pepper, the infected peppers were symptomless. Bodies of viruliferous whiteflies fed on tomato and pepper were confirmed by PCR for the presence of TYLCTHV at 58.89-80% and 60-89.45%, respectively. Our results thus provide evidence that pepper infected with TYLCTHV is not a source plant for TYLCTHV transmission to tomato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil quality degradation is a recent concern of climate change effects in semi-arid regions of India. Soil degradation is a major threat in developing cities; hence the assessment of soil quality plays a key role in evaluating urbanization's impact on soil quality. Thus, a study was carried out to address the selection of the most suitable soil quality indicators to determine the current status of soil quality in Bangalore. Around 248 geo-referenced surface soil samples were collected from rural, peri-urban, and urban areas and exposed to several physical, chemical, and biological properties to assess the soil quality. Selective parameters were subjected to principal component analysis (PCA), which screened out the three principal components (PCs), with an eigenvalue of > 1, and explained 57.2% of the variance in the data set using varimax rotation. The results indicated that a soil quality index (SQI) was computed using four key indicators, viz. pH, dehydrogenase activity (DHA), available potassium (K2O), and electrical conductivity (EC). In rural, peri-urban, and urban soils, dehydrogenase activity contributed the most to soil quality (59.69, 51.71, & 47.88%) > pH (20.41, 21.87, & 29.30%) > available K2O (14.93, 15.86, & 14.72%) > EC (4.97, 10.56, & 8.11%). The soil quality index recorded in rural soil was very high (0.61), moderate in peri-urban soil (0.52), and low in urban soil (0.44). The results revealed that the evaluation of the soil quality index is the best to understand the soil quality for sustainable agriculture practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India experienced a rapid rise in COVID-19 infections from March 2021. States imposed varying levels of lockdowns and curfews to curb the spread of the disease. These restrictions severely affected the functioning of food systems. The objective of this study was to analyze how COVID-19 continues to affect agricultural production, food security and household diets of vegetable farmers. A phone-based survey was conducted with 595 vegetable farmers in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Jharkhand, Karnataka and Odisha, 60% of whom had been interviewed a year earlier. Overall, 60% of farmers experienced decreased vegetable production; over 80% reported a reduction in consumption of at least one food group; and 45% reported some level of food insecurity between May 2020 and May 2021. Farmers who reported decreased staples production, difficulty accessing seeds/seedlings, or reduced their household spending were more likely to report decreased vegetable production. Vegetable consumption was positively associated with receipt of COVID-19 relief benefits, borrowing money, or having home gardens. Farmers who received public agricultural assistance, or had reduced expenses, were more likely to have lower vegetable consumption. Greater severity of food insecurity was associated with farmers belonging to underprivileged social groups, non-Hindus, or those who experienced decrease in livestock production, weather related disruptions or received COVID-19 assistance. This is one of few studies that have conducted a longitudinal assessment of the impacts across multiple waves of COVID-19. COVID-19 is seen to be one among several shocks experienced by farm households, and exacerbated existing issues within agriculture and food security. There is a need for public policy support to strengthen both production and consumption of vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chrysomelid beetle Phyllotreta striolata is an important pest of Brassicaceae in Southeast Asia and North America. Here, we identified the aggregation pheromone of a population of P. striolata from Taiwan, and host plant volatiles that interact with the pheromone. Volatiles emitted by feeding male P. striolata attracted males and females in the field. Headspace volatile analyses revealed that six sesquiterpenes were emitted specifically by feeding males. Only one of these, however, elicited an electrophysiological response from antennae of both sexes. A number of host plant volatiles, e.g., 1-hexanol, ( Z)-3-hexen-1-ol, and the glucosinolate hydrolysis products allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), 3-butenyl isothiocyanate, and 4-pentenyl isothiocyanate also elicited clear responses from the antenna. The active male-specific compound was identified as (+)-(6 R,7 S)-himachala-9,11-diene by chiral stationary phase gas-chromatography with coupled mass spectrometry, and by comparison with reference samples from Abies nordmanniana, which is known to produce the corresponding enantiomer. The pheromone compound was synthesized starting from (-)-α-himachalene isolated from Cedrus atlantica. Under field conditions, the activity of the synthetic pheromone required concomitant presence of the host plant volatile allyl isothiocyanate. However, both synthetic (+)-(6 R,7 S)-himachala-9,11-diene alone and in combination with AITC were attractive in a two-choice laboratory assay devoid of other natural olfactory stimuli. We hypothesize that P. striolata adults respond to the pheromone only if specific host volatiles are present. In the same laboratory set up, more beetles were attracted by feeding males than by the synthetic stimuli. Thus, further research will be necessary to reveal the components of a more complex blend of host or male-produced semiochemicals that might enhance trap attractiveness in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Diamondback moth (DBM) is one of the notorious pests of crucifers causing significant yield loss throughout the world. In order to understand how particular growing conditions for crops including selective colored protected cultivation may modify integrated pest management strategies, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the mortality and reproduction capabilities of DBM under different colored netting conditions, as well as the main life table parameters using the age-stage, two-sex life table technique. The results revealed that three developmental stages were slightly different among treatments, in which females reared under conventional white net house lived longer compared to females reared under semi-field and colored (magenta color pattern) net house. However, populations' parameters did not change as result of different light conditions, with the exception of the mean generation time (T), which was higher under semi-field conditions compared to the conventional white net house. The obtained biological and ecological information under different colored net structures can be used as an ecological tool to formulate new strategies to control DBM. To our knowledge, this is the first study on effect of light spectrum on DBM biology and life table parameters while reared under different colored net conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Therophilus javanus (Bhat & Gupta) is an exotic larval endoparasitoid newly imported from Asia into Africa as a classical biological control agent against the pod borer Maruca vitrata (Fabricius). The parasitoid preference for the five larval instars of M. vitrata and their influence on progeny sex ratio were assessed together with the impact of larval host age at the time of oviposition on development time, mother longevity and offspring production. In a choice situation, female parasitoids preferred to oviposit in the first three larval instars. The development of immature stages of the parasitoid was observed inside three-day-old hosts, whereby the first two larval instars of T. javanus completed their development as endoparasites and the third larval instar as ectoparasite. The development time was faster when first larval instars (two- and three-day-old) of the host caterpillars were parasitized compared to second larval instar (four-day-old). The highest proportion of daughters (0.51) was observed when females were provided with four-day-old hosts. The lowest intrinsic rate of increase (r) (0.21 ± 0.01), the lowest rate of increase (λ) (1.23 ± 0.01), and the lowest net reproductive rate (Ro) (35.93 ± 6.51) were recorded on four-day-old hosts. These results are discussed in the light of optimizing mass rearing and release strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the soil carbon sequestration potential is vital for decision-making related to crop and soil management and for prioritizing the area for carbon sequestration and climate change mitigation. In the present study, we mapped the soil carbon sequestration potential (CSP) along with its uncertainty over two depth ranges (0–30 cm and 0–100 cm) in parts of Western Ghats, Kerala, India, using datasets from 150 soil profiles. The difference between the soil organic carbon (SOC) saturation potential of the finer soil fractions (clay and silt) and the current soil organic carbon content of finer particles is considered as the CSP. The actual SOC stock and CSP in the study area were mapped using the quantile regression forest (QRF) algorithm. The model yielded better predictions of the SOC stock (R2 = 0.52–0.55) than did the CSP model (R2 = 0.22–0.36). The predicted SOC stock and CSP for 100 cm depth in the study area ranged from 5.2 kg m−2 to 26.18 kg m−2 and from 4.89 kg m−2 to 28.69 kg m−2, respectively. In total, approximately 256 Tg and 1089 Tg CO2 equivalents could theoretically be stored in the top 30 cm and 100 cm of the study area, respectively. A relatively greater CSP was detected for soils of annual crops (18.6 kg m−2) than for soils of plantations (10.5 kg m−2) and forests (9.5 kg m−2) in 100 cm soil depth. The high sequestration potential of soils of annual crops could be met with agronomic practices such as mulching and conservation tillage. Improved agricultural management practices could have a significant impact on CO2 mitigation through the construction of SOC stocks, which has also added the advantage of high agricultural productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of cultivars resistant to tomato fruit borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), are very limited in Pakistan and other parts of the world because of the lack of good sources of resistance for breeding. Insect-resistant cultivars would be beneficial to decrease the indiscriminate use of pesticides on tomato crops. Seven wild tomato accessions, including Solanum galapagense Darwin & Peralta, Solanum pimpinellifolium L., Solanum cheesmaniae (Riley) Fosberg, and a susceptible check (Solanum lycopersicum L.) (all Solanaceae), were evaluated for resistance to tomato fruit borer based on oviposition preference and feeding in the choice and no-choice bioassays. In the oviposition preference test, S. cheesmaniae (VI037240) and S. galapagense (VI063174) recorded the lowest mean number of eggs, 4.40 and 7.00 per plant, respectively. The highest mortality of H. armigera larvae (90%) was recorded on S. pimpinellifolium (VI030462) compared to the susceptible check (15%). The lowest pupal weight (89.67 mg) resulted from S. galapagense (VI063174), but it was not significantly different from the S. pimpinellifolium and S. cheesmaniae accessions. Among all tested accessions, S. pimpinellifolium (VI030462) was found to be highly resistant to H. armigera based on larval mortality, pupal weight, and pupation percentage. These results can pave the way to enhance the resistance in cultivated tomato varieties to control this notorious fruit borer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The foraging behavior of T. javanus is influenced by pod borer M. vitrata host plants. • Among wild host plant species, T. javanus is more attracted by odors of T. platycarpa. • In cowpea, the cultivated host, infested pods are more attractive to T. javanus than infested flowers. Abstract Plants damaged by herbivores are known to release odors attracting parasitoids. However, there is currently no information how leguminous plants damaged by the pod borer Maruca vitrata attract the exotic larval parasitoid Therophilus javanus , which was imported into Benin from the putative area of origin of the pod borer in tropical Asia for assessing its potential as a biological control agent. In this study, we used Y-tube olfactometer bioassays to investigate T. javanus response towards odors emitted by four M. vitrata -damaged host plants: cowpea Vigna unguiculata , the most important cultivated host, and the naturally occurring legumes Lonchocarpus sericeus, Sesbania rostrata and Tephrosia platycarpa. Olfactory attraction of T. javanus was influenced by the species of plant damaged by the pod borer. Moreover, odors released from M. vitrata -infested host plant organs (flowers and pods) were discriminated over non-infested organs in cowpea and T. platycarpa , respectively. These results are discussed in the context of the possible impact of M. vitrata host plants on T. javanus foraging activity and subsequent establishment in natural environments following experimental releases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetable and grain amaranths represent a vital source of micronutrients and protein in Asia and Africa. However, various foliar lepidopteran pests and stem-mining weevils hinder amaranth production. Insect-resistant cultivars can enhance the productivity of this crop. Here, we report on the performances of amaranth varieties screened for their resistance to insect pests under the field conditions at The World Vegetable Center stations in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. We conducted two preliminary screening trials with a total of 263 entries from around the world in Taiwan and a third preliminary screening trial with 49 African-indigenous entries in Tanzania. Promising entries from these preliminary trials were collectively evaluated in an advanced screening trial in Tanzania, to identify lines resistant to foliar and stem-boring pests in East Africa. Four entries exhibited moderate resistance to foliar pests: TZ51 and TZ53 (Amaranthus cruentus), TZ34 (A. dubius) and TZ39 (Amaranthus sp.). Five entries showed moderate resistance to stem weevils: TZ06 and TZ27 (A. cruentus), TZ52 (A. graecizans), TZ59 (A. palmeri) and TZ07 (Amaranthus sp.). Lepidopteran pests affecting leaves were reared to adulthood and identified as Spoladea recurvalis (Crambidae), Spodoptera exigua (Noctuidae) and Spodoptera littoralis (Noctuidae). Stem weevil larvae were also reared and identified as: Neocleonus sannio Herbst, Gasteroclisus pr. rhomboidalis Boheman, Hypolixus pr. haerens Boheman and Baradine sp. (Curculionidae). These results highlight key amaranth pests in East Africa and identify insect-resistant entries that will be useful in breeding programmes and resistance studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), a devastating pest of tomato, invaded Tanzania in 2014. There is now a pressing need to determine the extent of T. absoluta infestations in tomato, other solanaceous crops, and wild plants of Tanzania, to support research and to develop pest management programs. In Sep and Oct 2015, we visited 15 randomly selected villages in 4 leading tomato-producing districts (Arumeru, Lushoto, Kilolo, and Mvomero) and sampled fields representing 9 solanaceous crops and weeds. Tuta absoluta was present in all 4 districts. Overall, in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) T. absoluta established 1.0 ± 1.3 (mean ± standard deviation) mines per leaf and damaged 15 ± 15% of fruits; in eggplant (aubergine) (Solanum melongena L.) it established 0.3 ± 0.7 mines per leaf and damaged 0 ± 0% of fruits; in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) T. absoluta established 0.17 ± 0.1 mines per leaf; and in 2 African nightshades (Solanum nigrum L. and Solanum americanum Mill.) T. absoluta established 0.02 ± 0.03 mines per leaf (fruits of the latter 2 were not sampled). Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) and African eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum L.) were not affected by T. absoluta. We found 3 solanaceous weeds in the vicinity of T. absoluta-infested fields in Arumeru District: Solanum incanum L., Datura stramonium L., and Nicandara physalodes (L.) Gaertn. None of these species were infested by T. absoluta; however, the latter 2 were infested by Phthorimaea operculella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), which has habits and larvae that resemble those of T. absoluta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to understand farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding agricultural pest management and synthetic pesticide use in Southeast Asia. Data were used from 900 farm households producing leaf mustard ( Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. et Coss.) and yard-long bean ( Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis (L.) Verdc.) in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. Farmers heavily depended on synthetic pesticides as their main method of pest control. Most farmers were aware of the adverse health effects associated with pesticide use and covered body parts while spraying, but also considered pesticides to be highly effective and indispensable farm inputs. Farmers were largely unable to distinguish between common beneficial and harmful arthropods. Greater knowledge about this was associated with less pesticide use while greater awareness of pesticide health risks was associated with fewer observed poisoning symptoms. For the average farm and while controlling for other factors, farmers who sought advice from friends and neighbors used 45% less pesticide, but those who sought advice from pesticide shopkeepers used 251% more pesticide. Pesticide use was 42% less when a woman was in charge of pest management and 31% less when farmers had adopted biopesticides. These findings suggest relevant entry points for interventions aimed at reducing pesticide dependence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we assessed knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) related to tomato hygiene and food safety, among tomato vendors in the Ethiopian cities of Harar and Dire Dawa. From a total of 1498 tomato retail market vendors identified in the two cities through vendor mapping exercises, 151 outlets were randomly selected for a cross-sectional KAP survey on tomato handling, marketing, loss due to damage, safety, and hygienic practice. Tomato vendors claimed that they knew about food safety and hygiene, and risks associated with raw tomatoes. We found considerable variation in food safety knowledge, barriers, and practices during handling and marketing. The major concern of tomato traders in terms of food safety for vegetables was contamination with dirt. Around 17% of street vendors did not know about the importance of water quality and cleanliness for food safety. About 20% of tomato traders washed tomatoes after they purchased them and 43% and 14% of respondents who practiced tomato washing revealed that they cannot get the quantity and quality of water needed, respectively. Tomatoes were displayed in direct sunlight in about 85% of stalls. About 37% of vendors said rodents were present at night and could contact surfaces tomatoes are displayed on. For about 40% of outlets one or more flies were seen to be present on a third to two-thirds of their tomatoes. Overall, 40% of respondents reported they do not have adequate toilet facilities and 20% of those that use a toilet do not have water for washing hands after. The study identified areas that should be targeted by interventions aiming to improve food safety in this setting, however, without improvements in basic infrastructure to provide the pre-requisites for food safety the impact of small-scale food safety interventions may be limited. • Basic infrastructures are lacking in the dominant informal food sector in Ethiopia. • We found 40% of tomato retailers did not have adequate toilet facilities. • Almost half did not have adequate access to clean water. • Stalls sell live chickens in proximity to vegetables, which are often eaten raw. • Food waste through damage was a problem for a quarter of retailers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated pest management (IPM) is recognized as a safer alternative to conventional pest control but adoption remains low. Modern technologies such as mobile phones could promote IPM adoption, but there is a need for better evidence. We use a cluster randomized controlled trial in Cambodia with four treatment arms to test the hypothesis that text messages sent over mobile phones, either used as a stand-alone method or combined with demonstrations and training, increase IPM adoption among vegetable farmers. Baseline and endline data were collected from 744 farmers producing yardlong bean (Vigna unguiculata subsp. Sesquipedalis) or leafy brassicas. Text messages or demonstrations and training alone did not affect IPM adoption, but when combined, they increased the adoption of IPM practices by 20% or 0.4 practices (p = 0.032). However, this combination also increased the number of pesticide sprays by 24% or 0.2 sprays (p = 0.023), perhaps as farmers became more aware of pests and diseases. These findings suggest that text messages can reinforce demonstrations and training, but not substitute them. Besides, limits to the correct interpretation of information transferred may lead to unintended adverse effects. • A randomized controlled trial tested whether phone text messages can promote IPM. • Only if combined with demonstration and training did phone texts increase IPM adoption. • This combination also increased pesticide spraying. • Text messages can reinforce demonstrations and training, but not substitute them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aggregations of the striped flea beetle Phyllotreta striolata on their crucifer host plants are mediated by volatiles emitted from feeding males. The male-specific sesquiterpene, (6 R,7 S)-himachala-9,11-diene (compound A), was shown previously to be physiologically and behaviorally active, but compound A was attractive only when combined with unnaturally high doses of the host plant volatile allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) in field trapping experiments. This indicated that our understanding of the chemical communication in this species is incomplete. Another male-specific sesquiterpenoid, (3 S,9 R,9a S)-3-hydroxy-3,5,5,9-tetramethyl-5,6,7,8,9,9a-hexahydro-1H-benzo[7]annulen-2(3H)-one (compound G), has been reported from an American P. striolata population. We confirmed the presence of compound G, and investigated its interaction with compound A and AITC in a P. striolata population in Taiwan. Compound G was attractive to Taiwanese P. striolata in laboratory bioassays, but significantly more beetles were attracted to a blend of compounds A and G. Under the same conditions, P. striolata showed no preference for the blend of A and G combined with a range of doses of AITC over the sesquiterpenoid blend alone. The sesquiterpenoid blend was tested further in field trapping experiments and attracted significantly more beetles than traps baited with compound A and ecologically relevant amounts of AITC. We conclude that A and G are components of the male-specific aggregation pheromone of P. striolata in Taiwan, and that the attractiveness of the pheromone is not reliant on the presence of AITC. Our results further indicate that the male-specific sesquiterpenoid blends differ qualitatively between the Taiwanese and American populations of P. striolata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant diseases caused by vector-transmitted viruses like begomovirus inflict serious damage in terms of yield and colossal loss in many crops, predominantly Chilli. Coupled with bleak farm awareness and lack of management options, they could severely hamper remuneration prospects. In this connection, the profitability of the farm level begomovirus management strategies has been analyzed in this study. A sample of 100 chilli farmers were surveyed with focus on their perceptions of begomovirus caused diseases. Findings revealed a majority of farmers (80 per cent) experienced cross loss due to viral diseases. Positive changes in output and production cost were also reported with the adoption of management strategies, which in turn were categorized in to: low, medium and high. Besides, it was also revealed that when compared with no management strategy, the change in the gross margin was 17 per cent, 26 per cent and 80 per cent after the adoption of low, medium and high level of management strategies, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The legume pod borer, Maruca vitrata, is a pantropical pest on leguminous crops. ( E,E)-10,12-Hexadecadienal, ( E,E)-10,12-hexadecadienol, and ( E)-10-hexadecenal were described previously as sex pheromone components for this nocturnal moth. A blend of these components in a ratio of 100:5:5 attracted males in field trapping experiments in Benin, but not in Taiwan, Thailand, or Vietnam. This finding suggests geographic variation in the pheromone blend between Asian and West African populations of M. vitrata. We, therefore, determined the pheromone compositions of single pheromone glands of females from the three Asian regions and from Benin by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Additionally, we compared the responses of males from Taiwan and Benin to calling females and to gland extracts of females from both regions in laboratory no-choice and two-choice assays. Chemical analysis revealed the presence of ( E,E)-10,12-hexadecadienal and ( E,E)-10,12-hexadecadienol, as well as the absence of ( E)-10-hexadecenal in all four populations. The relative amounts of the detected compounds did not vary significantly among the insect populations. The behavioral bioassays showed that Taiwanese and Beninese males were similarly attracted to females from both regions, as well as to their gland extracts. As a result, we did not find geographic variation in the sexual communication system of M. vitrata between West African and Asian insect populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Culex quinquefasciatus, an arboviral and filarial vector, is present year round in several cities of the Republic of Benin. There is more information on the resistance status to malaria vectors compared to Culicines. It is therefore unfortunate that the international focus is on Anopheles control and not so much done against Cx. quinquefasciatus, a rather more resilient mosquito to many insecticides that deserves attention. The present study aims to assess the resistance status of Cx. quinquefasciatus to carbamates, pyrethroids and organochlorine and discuss the implications for vector control in four contrasting localities of the country. Methods Four contrasting localities of the country were selected for mosquito collection during the dry season based on their variation in agricultural production, use of insecticides and/or ecological settings. Bioassay were performed on adults collected from the field to assess the susceptibility of Cx. quinquefasciatus to insecticide-impregnated papers (permethrin 0.75%, delthamethrin 0.05%, DDT 4%, and bendiocarb 0.1%) following WHOPES guidelines. Molecular assays were carried out to detect the presence of knock down resistance (kdr) and acetylcholinesterase (ace. 1) mutations in surviving specimens using PCR techniques. Results WHO diagnostic tests showed high frequency of resistance in Cx. quinquefasciatus to permethrin (ranging from 4 to 24% mortality), deltamethrin (24 to 48%), DDT (4 to 12%) and bendiocarb (60 to 76%) in the four selected areas. This was consistent with the presence of target site insensitivity due to kdr and ace.1 mutations, which were significantly higher in areas where farmers used insecticides for pests control than in areas where no insecticides were used (p < 0.05.). Conclusion These findings showed that wild populations of Cx. quinquefasciatus have developed resistance against pyrethroids, organochlorine and carbamate. This situation of resistance may seriously jeopardize the efficacy of Insecticide Residual Spray (IRS) and Long-Lasting Insecticide nets (LLINs) on which, most African countries including Benin, rely to reduce malaria transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The legume pod borer, Maruca vitrata (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), is an insect pest species of crops grown by subsistence farmers in tropical regions of Africa. We present the de novo assembly of 3729 contigs from 454- and Sanger-derived sequencing reads for midgut, salivary, and whole adult tissues of this non-model species. Functional annotation predicted that 1320 M. vitrata protein coding genes are present, of which 631 have orthologs within the Bombyx mori gene model. A homology-based analysis assigned M. vitrata genes into a group of paralogs, but these were subsequently partitioned into putative orthologs following phylogenetic analyses. Following sequence quality filtering, a total of 1542 putative single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were predicted within M. vitrata contig assemblies. Seventy one of 1078 designed molecular genetic markers were used to screen M. vitrata samples from five collection sites in West Africa. Population substructure may be present with significant implications in the insect resistance management recommendations pertaining to the release of biological control agents or transgenic cowpea that express Bacillus thuringiensis crystal toxins. Mutation data derived from transcriptome sequencing is an expeditious and economical source for genetic markers that allow evaluation of ecological differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the assembly of the 14,054 bp near complete sequencing of the mitochondrial genome of the legume pod borer (LPB), Maruca vitrata (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), which we subsequently used to estimate divergence and relationships within the lepidopteran lineage. The arrangement and orientation of the 13 protein-coding, 2 rRNA, and 19 tRNA genes sequenced was typical of insect mitochondrial DNA sequences described to date. The sequence contained a high A+T content of 80.1% and a bias for the use of codons with A or T nucleotides in the 3rd position. Transcript mapping with midgut and salivary gland ESTs for mitochondrial genome annotation showed that translation from protein-coding genes initiates and terminates at standard mitochondrial codons, except for the coxI gene, which may start from an arginine CGA codon. The genomic copy of coxII terminates at a T nucleotide, and a proposed polyadenylation mechanism for completion of the TAA stop codon was confirmed by comparisons to EST data. EST contig data further showed that mature M. vitrata mitochondrial transcripts are monocistronic, except for bicistronic transcripts for overlapping genes nd4/nd4L and nd6/cytb, and a tricistronic transcript for atp8/atp6/coxIII. This processing of polycistronic mitochondrial transcripts adheres to the tRNA punctuated cleavage mechanism, whereby mature transcripts are cleaved only at intervening tRNA gene sequences. In contrast, the tricistronic atp8/atp6/coxIII in Drosophila is present as separate atp8/atp6 and coxIII transcripts despite the lack of an intervening tRNA. Our results indicate that mitochondrial processing mechanisms vary between arthropod species, and that it is crucial to use transcriptional information to obtain full annotation of mitochondrial genomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Tomato is the most important vegetable grown in Myanmar. However, its production is threatened by the invasion of the new insect pest, the South American tomato leaf miner, Tuta absoluta. Preliminary surveys on pest occurrence on tomato crops in Myanmar suggested the presence of T. absoluta in Southern Shan State, but there was no official survey conducted until the end of 2019. Therefore, this study aimed to confirm the presence of T. absoluta in Myanmar. Tuta absoluta presence was confirmed in all fields and locations surveyed in Myanmar, under two cultivation methods, (i.e., floating-and land cultivation). Higher infestation levels recorded at theKalaw location (land cultivation) seemed to correspond with plants at flowering and early harvesting stages. Moreover, information collected from the survey showed that the amount of T. absoluta larvae was significantly higher in the lower third of the plants followed by the middle section and upper section, respectively, in three fields of the survey. The South American tomato leaf miner, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), one of the most important invasive insect pests affecting tomato production worldwide, was for the first time detected in Myanmar. Preliminary surveys on pest occurrence on tomato crops in Myanmar suggested the presence of T. absoluta in Southern Shan State, but there was no official survey conducted until the end of 2019. Therefore, this study aimed to confirm the presence of T. absoluta in Myanmar. The presence of T. absoluta was specifically observed in the Southern Shan State, which is the largest tomato production area in Myanmar, where tomato is grown under two cultivation methods, floating and land cultivation. The highest T. absoluta infestation was recordedat Kalaw with (82%), followed by Inle Lake (i.e., floating cultivation) (20%) and Pin Ta Ya (10%). The amount of T. absoluta larvae was significantly higher in the lower third of the plants, followed by the middle section and upper section, respectively, in three fields surveyed. Potential and severe economic damage may be expected if management practices are not in place to reduce the presence of this invasive pest. It is of immediate importance that plant protection and quarantine offices of ASEAN member states coordinate their response to T. absoluta and build their capacity to monitor the pest and develop a strategy for when it arrives. In addition, a suitable management strategy is needed to reduce the occurrence of this invasive pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meteorus pulchricornis (Ichneumonoidea, Braconidae) is an endoparasitoid wasp of lepidopteran caterpillars. Its parasitic success relies on vesicles (named M. pulchricornis Virus-Like Particles or MpVLPs) that are synthesized in the venom gland and injected into the parasitoid host along with the venom during oviposition. In order to define the content and understand the biogenesis of these atypical vesicles, we performed a transcriptome analysis of the venom gland and a proteomic analysis of the venom and purified MpVLPs. About half of the MpVLPs and soluble venom proteins identified were unknown and no similarity with any known viral sequence was found. However, MpVLPs contained a large number of proteins labelled as metalloproteinases while the most abundant protein family in the soluble venom was that of proteins containing the Domain of Unknown Function DUF-4803. The high number of these proteins identified suggests that a large expansion of these two protein families occurred in M. pulchricornis. Therefore, although the exact mechanism of MpVLPs formation remains to be elucidated, these vesicles appear to be "metalloproteinase bombs" that may have several physiological roles in the host including modifying the functions of its immune cells. The role of DUF4803 proteins, also present in the venom of other braconids, remains to be clarified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The tomato fruitworm, Helicoverpa armigera Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a destructive polyphagous insect pest of tomatoes and its control largely depends on chemical pesticides. However, indiscriminate use of chemical pesticides has resulted in the development of resistance and posed serious environmental problems. Alternatively, in search of environmentally friendly pest management techniques, the use of trap crops has recently gained more attention. In this study, we compared different accessions of S. viarum to investigate which of them have the highest potential as a dead-end trap crop for H. armigera. Results from the laboratory experiment showed a significant variation among the S. viarum accessions in terms of H. armigera oviposition, and exhibited a higher level of resistance against H. armigera larvae compared to the tomato plants. Under the semi-field condition, trap cropping of S. viarum significantly reduces the total egg-laying of H. armigera on tomato. This study provides important information about the abilities of S. viarum plants to influence the life parameter of H. armigera and highlighted the possibilities to use S. viarum as a dead-end trap crop for the management of H. armigera. However, the efficacy of S. viarum needs to be tested under large, open-field conditions. Solanum viarum has been proposed as a potential dead-end trap crop for the management of Helicoverpa armigera because of its unsuitability for larval growth and survival despite being overwhelmingly preferred for oviposition. This study delved into the different S. viarum accessions for ovipositional preference and non-suitability for larval growth and survival of H. armigera. Besides, foliage trichomes, acylsugars, and phenolic content of S. viarum plants were assessed and compared with tomato. Since there is no significant variation in the ovipositional preference and larval performance of H. armigera, our result revealed that all those evaluated accessions of S. viarum have the potential to be used as a dead-end trap crop for the management of H. armigera. However, significant variation among the S. viarum accessions in terms of H. armigera oviposition was also evident in a no-choice experiment. Because of high-density glandular trichomes, acylsugars, and phenolic content, S. viarum significantly impaired H. armigera larval growth and survival compared to the tomato. Hence, our study elucidated that the S. viarum plant fits with the criteria for dead-end trap crop, and has the potential as a dead-end trap crop for the H. armigera, which needs to be tested under large, open-field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]