Search

Agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and is vulnerable to climate change. Regenerative agriculture, which focuses on increasing soil carbon, has been recognized as a potential climate solution. A recent study found that seven regenerative practices, including planting cover crops and using non-chemical fertilizers, all increased carbon sequestration. However, the study also highlights that regenerative agriculture has other benefits beyond carbon sequestration, and the focus should not solely be on carbon credits. The popularity of regenerative agriculture is growing, but there is a risk of it being co-opted and losing its essence. [Extracted from the article]

Wild pigs have one of the widest global distributions of any invasive species, and damage associated with them has been documented for centuries. Previously, a field trial was performed in 2015 to evaluate the use of paraffin bait formulations containing warfarin to control wild pigs. While the results of this study were satisfactory, prior research suggests that a cracked corn-based alternative could successfully deliver warfarin to wild pigs and the authors indicated caveats associated with their study that should be addressed. For the current study, a field trial was conducted (2017), as a continuation of the prior research, to evaluate the use of a 0.005% warfarin cracked corn bait in reducing feral hogs, utilizing an alternative feeder type. Results indicated warfarin bait could reduce wild pig consumption and presence at feeders by 92-96.4%. The results also indicated that the feeder use during the current trial was superior in keeping non-targets from accessing the bait, yet potentially more difficult for wild pigs to utilize than previously used commercial feeders. Results further indicated that wild pig presence at feeders was noticeably greater during the current field trial. The availability of an alternative warfarin bait formulation could provide an additional tool to managers to control wild pigs in North Texas and the remainder of ever-expanding wild pig habitat in the U.S and potentially globally.

The document titled "PM 9/32 (1) Solanum carolinense" from the EPPO Bulletin describes the control procedures for monitoring, containing, and eradicating Solanum carolinense, a perennial herb native to North America. The species is considered a major agricultural problem due to its weedy attributes and negative impact on crop yield, livestock, and host to crop diseases and pests. The document outlines the importance of regional cooperation, surveillance, eradication, and containment measures to prevent the further spread of this pest. It also provides detailed information on monitoring, eradication, and containment strategies, including the use of herbicides, mechanical control, mowing, and cultural control methods. [Extracted from the article]

The document titled "PP 1/334 (1) Evaluation of mating disruption techniques against Lepidopteran pests in vegetable and ornamental crops under protected conditions" outlines the standards for conducting trials to evaluate the efficacy of mating disruption techniques using synthetic sexual pheromones to control Lepidoptera species in vegetable and ornamental crops under protected conditions. It specifies the test organisms, selection of crops, trial conditions, design, application of treatments, mode of assessment, recording, and measurements, as well as the reporting of results. The document emphasizes the importance of conducting trials in a systematic manner, adhering to specific guidelines and principles outlined in EPPO Standards. [Extracted from the article]

With the increasing pressure on global food security, the effective detection and management of rice pests have become crucial. Traditional pest detection methods are not only time-consuming and labor-intensive but also often fail to achieve real-time monitoring and rapid response. This study aims to address the issue of rice pest detection through deep learning techniques to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. The research utilizes the IP102 large-scale rice pest benchmark dataset, publicly released by CVPR in 2019, which includes 9,663 images of eight types of pests, with a training-to-testing ratio of 8:2. By optimizing the YOLOv8 model, incorporating the CBAM (Convolutional Block Attention Module) attention mechanism, and the BiFPN (Bidirectional Feature Pyramid Network) for feature fusion, the detection accuracy in complex agricultural environments was significantly improved. Experimental results show that the improved YOLOv8 model achieved mAP@0.5 and mAP@0.5:0.95 scores of 98.8% and 78.6%, respectively, representing increases of 2.8% and 2.35% over the original model. This study confirms the potential of deep learning technology in the field of pest detection, providing a new technological approach for future agricultural pest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cool season legumes (Faba bean, chickpea, lentil, pea, and grass pea) are important protein harvests for food and nutrition security in many countries. They play key roles in sustainable cereal production through their ecological benefits. However, diseases and pests attack continue to have a substantial impact on crop yield and quality. Although growers used different control options to manage these biotic stresses such as pesticide application, cultural practices, and resistant varieties, there is a pressing need for the development of new, more cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to help farmers in facing the existing environmental issues. Recently, there is a growing interest among researchers in exploiting Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) for the elaboration of disease and pest control strategies in food legumes and other crops. These compounds have important functions in ecological relationships occurring between plants and their surrounding environment, as well as plants and others species, such as pests and pathogens. Due to their unique properties, VOCs can be employed in improving management alternatives for food legume diseases and pests. In this assessment, we investigated the role of VOCs in plant-pest and plant-pathogen interactions and their present applications in pest and diseases control strategies. We emphasized the ecological importance of employing plant VOCs in legume farming and crop breeding. Additionally, we highlighted the potential of microbial VOCs in facilitating microbe-microbe, microbe-plant and microbe-plant-pest interactions, along with their role in food legume protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review provides an overview on the fate and behavior of imidacloprid, a neonicotinoid insecticide, in agricultural environments. The study focuses on four key aspects: adsorption and leaching of imidacloprid in soil, degradation and hydrolysis of imidacloprid in soil and water, uptake and persistence of imidacloprid in plants, and volatilization of imidacloprid to the atmosphere. The review presents the latest findings from research on each of these topics. While imidacloprid is highly effective at controlling pests, it is also known to persist in the environment, posing risks to non-target organisms such as bees, birds, and aquatic life. Moreover, there is increasing concern about its potential to accumulate in the soil and water systems, which may have long-term effects on the ecosystem. The review suggests that better understanding of the behavior and fate of imidacloprid in agricultural environments is essential for developing effective strategies to minimize its environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aphid-transmitted viruses cause significant losses in pepper production worldwide, negatively affecting yield and quality. The emergence of new aphid-transmitted viruses or development of variants as well as the occurrence in mixed infections make management a challenge. Here, we overview the current status of the distribution, incidence and phylogeny of aphids and the viruses they transmit in pepper in Africa; outline the available genetic resources, including sources of resistance, resistance genes and molecular markers; and discuss the recent advances in understanding the genetic basis of resistance to the predominant African viruses infecting pepper. Pepper veinal mottle virus (PVMV; Potyvirus); Potato virus Y (PVY; Potyvirus), Chili veinal mottle virus (ChiVMV; Potyvirus), Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV; Cucumovirus) and Pepper veins yellow virus (PeVYV; Polerovirus) have been reported to be the most widespread and devastating aphid-transmitted viruses infecting pepper across Africa. Co-infection or mixed infection between aphid-transmitted viruses has been detected and the interrelationship between viruses that co-infect chili peppers is poorly understood. Establishing and evaluating existing and new diversity sets with more genetic diversity is an important component of developing host resistance and implementing integrated management strategies. However, more work needs to be done to characterize the aphid-transmitted viral strains across Africa and understand their phylogeny in order to develop more durable host resistance. In addition, a limited number of QTLs associated with resistance to the aphid-transmitted virus have been reported and QTL data are only available for PVY, ChiVMV and CMV mainly against European and Asian strains, although PVMV is likely the most important aphid-transmitted viral disease in Africa. There is a need to identify germplasm resources with resistance against various aphid-transmitted virus strains, and subsequent pyramiding of the resistance using marker-assisted selection could be an effective strategy. The recent advances in understanding the genetic basis of the resistance to the virus and the new breeding techniques that can be leveraged to accelerate breeding for aphid-transmitted virus in pepper are proposed as strategies to more efficiently develop resistant cultivars. The deployment of multi-genetic resistances in pepper is an effective and desirable method of managing viral-diseases in Africa and limit losses for farmers in a sustainable manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable pest management requires growers and regional land managers to consider the relationships among pest management practices, pest and natural enemy communities, crop loss, and multi-scalar habitat complexity. However, the causal links among these variables, in particular potential interactions between landscape and local-scale habitat complexity, remain underexplored. In the context of organically managed strawberry crops in California's Central Coast, we tested the independent effects of landscape and local habitat complexity gradients on arthropod communities and crop loss using a piecewise structural equation model (PSEM). We found that landscape-scale woody habitat proportion indirectly decreased crop loss through its positive effect on natural enemy abundance, while grassland proportion had the opposite effect due to its association with an important strawberry pest (Lygus spp.). We detected a pattern suggesting that on-farm diversification practices are most effective at reducing crop loss at an intermediate level (26%) of woody habitat proportion. Both organic-compliant insecticide application and tractor vacuuming negatively impacted natural enemies, and therefore had qualified effects on crop loss. Our study shows the key roles of native woodlands and natural enemy communities in reducing crop loss and highlights the importance of managing habitat complexity at both landscape and local scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The polyphagous notorious pest, black cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), cause significant production losses due to its distinctive feeding and hiding behavior, making it particularly challenging to control it with conventional methods. Therefore, sustainable agriculture demands more effective and environmentally safe pest control solutions. This study aimed to investigate the toxicity of two insecticide alternatives, the entomopathogenic fungus (EPF) Beauveria bassiana and Solanum lycopersicum extract (Tomato plant crude extract, TPCE), using two bioassay methods: the poisoned bait method and the leaf dipping method. In addition, the impact of these biological tools on larval development and protein profiles was evaluated. Results: The bait application of both tested materials exhibited higher toxicity than the leaf dipping method, as indicated by the toxicity index. The LC50 values for B. bassiana were 1.6 × 10⁸ and 1.8 × 10⁶ conidia ml−1 using the leaf dipping method and poisoned baits method, respectively. For TPCE, the LC50 values were 4.35 and 1.51 mg ml−1 for the same methods, respectively. In addition, sublethal concentrations of both materials altered the larval and pupal durations. B. bassiana significantly reduced the concentration of larval hemolymph protein. A maximum of 12 protein bands in the control sample, with molecular weights (Mw) ranging between 35 and 120 kDa, were detected by sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS–PAGE). In B. bassiana-treated larvae, ten bands were detected with Mw ranging from 35 to 120 kDa. At least seven bands were detected in TPCE-treated larvae, with Mw ranging from 35 to 97 kDa. Conclusions: The findings of this study can be integrated into management programs for A. ipsilon. In addition, the availability of B. bassiana and TPCE in Egypt and their cost-effectiveness as insecticide alternatives support their use in the management programs of this critical pest. These methods are particularly effective when applied in bait form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The invasive wasp-mimicking Tiger Longicorn Beetle, Xylotrechus chinensis, a potentially lethal pest of mulberry trees (Moraceae: Morus spp.), was first reported in Europe in 2018. In Catalonia its spread has been impressive: one district, four towns, 44 km2 in February 2018; four districts, 12 towns, 378 km2 in July 2020; seven districts, 65 towns, 1134 km2 in December 2023. It is likely the infestation will spread further in the future, in particular along the Mediterranean coast from Spain to Greece. The flight period of this beetle in Mediterranean countries is expanding on both ends (from the end of April to mid-October), probably due to increasing temperatures because of climate change, although this should be further proved. The adult beetle life span is 18–23 days in insectaria, likely somewhat shorter in the wild since they do not feed and spend more energy flying outside. The single treatment with abamectin carried out in a Catalonian town in June 2022 on a sample of 24 trees (12 treated, 12 untreated) has been effective in reducing the infestation of this beetle in relation to untreated trees. But the reduction was not complete since new exit holes appeared during the summer of the following year. Therefore, an additional treatment carried out during the first ten days of October should be tested to achieve a better control of this pest. It would also be worthwhile trying a single treatment of abamectin in mid-July since it should be able to kill larvae hatching before the treatment and still have sufficient residual activity for larvae hatching after the treatment, and thus cover the entire activity period. Also, to get satisfactory mulberry tree protection, it is likely that treatments might have to be repeated for a few consecutive years. Yearly re-infestations from untreated public and/or private mulberry trees are also a concern and make short-term control of this pest difficult, no doubt accounting for the rapid spread of this beetle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith), is a significant pest threatening crops like maize across Africa, necessitating sustainable pest management alternatives. This study evaluates the efficacy of Trichogramma evanescens as a biological control agent against FAW egg masses in Egypt under laboratory and semi-field conditions. FAW larvae were initially collected from infested maize fields and reared on castor-oil plant leaves. Meanwhile, T. evanescens was propagated using Sitotroga cerealella eggs as hosts. The host eggs, aged 18 to 24 h, were sterilized with UV light to prevent host development while maintaining suitability for parasitism. Using custom-designed parasitoid incubators and hemisphere clip-cages, experiments focused on various egg mass configurations, assessing the effects of scales and layering. Laboratory conditions were controlled at 25 ± 2ºC and 55 ± 5% relative humidity, while semi-field trials used large cages in maize fields to approximate natural conditions. The results showed that in laboratory settings, parasitism rates averaged 5.96%, 2.00%, and 1.56% for non-, average-, and dense-scale egg masses, respectively. For egg masses with varying layers, parasitism rates were 5.24% for single-layer, 3.09% for double-layer, and 1.18% for ple-layer, regardless of scale presence. In semi-field conditions, parasitism rates were 1.01% for single-layer, 1.13% for double-layer, and 0.59% for triple-layer egg masses. Correspondingly, parasitism rates for non-, average-, and dense-scale eggs were 1.85%, 0.60% and 0.27%. The study concludes that T. evanescens shows promise for integrated pest management programs; however, its effectiveness is constrained by physical and environmental variables. Optimizing the timing of parasitoid releases and selecting robust strains could enhance the effectiveness of biological control, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Due to their environmentally friendly character, entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) are becoming increasingly used as microbial agents in biological pest control over chemical pesticides. However, EPF are sensitive to the influence of abiotic factors, such as temperature, radiation, and humidity. To improve their efficiency as bioinsecticides, in this work, the development of a new microparticles-based formulation loading EPF conidia (B. bassiana aerial conidia) into sodium alginate/maltodextrin microparticles obtained by spray-drying was proposed. Different concentrations of both polysaccharides were tested to reach the optimal ratio and ensure a high viability of encapsulated conidia. Results: All the produced formulations showed a moisture content < 10% and water activity (aw) < 0.4. Microparticles obtained with 2% sodium alginate and 8% maltodextrin were able to retain 89.5% of the viability of encapsulated conidia, thus being selected for further characterization. Scanning electron microscopy showed microparticles with a smooth surface, varied sizes, and irregular morphology. Microparticles retained 5.44 × 108 conidia/g, presented high hygroscopicity and high suspensibility rate, yet low wettability and water activity (aw) of 0.33. The pH value ranged from 6.46 to 6.62. Microparticles were able to complete release the loaded conidia after 30 min, under constant stirring. When exposed to thermal stress (45 °C), microparticles promoted thermal protection to conidia. Enhanced pathogenicity of B. bassiana conidia against P. xylostella was also confirmed achieving 83.1 ± 5.5%, whereas non-encapsulated conidia reached only 64.8 ± 9.9%. Conclusions: This study confirms that the encapsulation of B. bassiana fungus conidia in sodium alginate/maltodextrin microparticles by spray-drying is a promising technological approach for the biological control of agricultural pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No mechanoreceptor potential C (NompC) is a major mechanotransduction channel with an important role in sensing of external mechanical stimuli by insects, which help these organisms to avoid injury and adapt to environmental changes. To explore the biological functions of NompC in Bactrocera dorsalis, a notorious agricultural pest, we successfully generated NompC knockout strains using clustered regularly interspaced small palindromic repeats (CRISPR) / CRISPR‐associated nuclease 9 (Cas9) technology. BdorNompC knockout led to an adult lethal phenotype, with approximately 100% mortality at 3 d after eclosion. Morphological observation revealed that the legs and wings of BdorNompC knockout insects were deformed, while behavioral assays showed that the locomotion was impaired in both adults and larvae, relative to that of the wild‐type strain. Moreover, BdorNompC knockout reduced gentle‐touch response in larvae. These results suggest that BdorNompC is critical for B. dorsalis survival, and that this mechanosensation channel represents a potential new target for pest control agents. Our findings also represent novel evidence indicating that insect NompC is involved in modulating adult wing and leg morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myochrous armatus Baly, 1865 (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) has expanded its occurrence significantly into soybean‐growing areas of Brazilian Cerrado and became an important early‐season soil pest. Experiments were performed under field conditions from 2020 to 2023 to assess several aspects: (1) population behaviour over crop season and offseason; (2) day/night behaviour during the early stages of soybean plants and (3) injury to plants and potential damage to soybean yield to establish the Economic Injury Level (EIL). Adults of the M. armatus population presented a season‐long abundance during the specific period from late October to January, with major captures in November and December (end of Spring), either inside or on the edge of soybean fields. Weeds and volunteer plants of corn and cotton hosts adults and eggs. These findings suggest an univoltine life cycle. Behavioural assessments revealed that M. armatus does not exhibit a specific day, night or crepuscular behaviour, performing deeds at any time. The majority of insects (40% to 70%) were found in the soil throughout the day and night. Adults feed on soybean plants by scraping or cutting the stem, cotyledon, petiole and apical sprouting. Their preference is initially for the stem and cotyledon (up to 14 days after emergence), and later for the petiole (after 21 days of emergence). After 7 days of coexistence at V1‐V3 soybean stages, we observed a potential yield reduction of 35% for each insect per plant. Dynamic EIL estimations are between 0.4 and 1.9 adults per row metre, depending on the grower productivity expectation, control costs and soybean market value. Our results are fundamental for establishing Integrated Pest Management for M. armatus in soybean and other crop systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three rice planthopper species, Nilaparvata lugens, Sogatella furcifera and Laodelphax striatellus, are destructive rice pests that cause serious economic losses in major rice‐producing regions of China. Understanding their dispersal patterns and potential distribution areas is crucial for effective management and control. Based on historical climate data and simulated future climate data combined with species occurrence data, the dispersal patterns of three planthopper species were analysed and their potential distributions were predicted. The results showed that from 1993 to 2022, the suitable areas for the three rice planthoppers gradually expanded. By 2022, the total suitable area for S. furcifera reached 478.35 × 104 km2, followed by 376.02 × 104 km2 for L. striatellus and 264.97 × 104 km2 for N. lugens. The optimum area for S. furcifera exhibited the most significant increase, expanding by 136.07 × 104 km2. The species has extended its range from southern China to the northeastern and northwestern regions within the past three decades. The suitable areas for L. striatellus and N. lugens did not show a significant spread trend. In addition, compared to that in 2022, the total suitable area for the three rice planthopper species increased slightly from 2041 to 2060. The study revealed that the wettest monthly rainfall and the lowest temperature were the most influential factors affecting the distributions of these planthopper species. This study provides valuable insights into the dispersal patterns and potential distribution of rice planthoppers in China and provides a theoretical basis for effective prevention and control strategies for destructive rice pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fast and effective monitoring and surveillance techniques are crucial for the swift implementation of control methods to prevent the spread of Huanglongbing, a devastating citrus disease, and its invasive psyllid vector, Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri, into South Africa, as well as to control the native vector, African citrus triozid, Trioza erytreae. Monitoring for citrus psyllid pests can be improved by using semiochemical odorants to augment already visually attractive yellow sticky traps. However, environmental variables such as temperature and humidity could influence odorant release rates. Five field cages were used to test the ability of a selection of odorants to improve yellow sticky trap efficacy in capturing citrus psyllids. Environmental effects on odorant loss from the dispensers were also investigated. The odorants that most improved yellow sticky trap captures in field cages were then tested under open field conditions alongside lower concentrations of those same lures. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to calculate odorant release rates as well as to determine if any contamination occurred under field conditions. None of the odorants under field cage or field conditions significantly improved psyllid capture on yellow sticky traps. Temperature influenced odorant loss, and release rate from polyethylene bulbs decreased over time. Based on these results, the use of unbaited yellow sticky traps seems to be the most effective method for monitoring of Huanglongbing vectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cabbage aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae) is a major pest of kale (Brassica oleraceae var. acephala), an important vegetable that is grown worldwide due to its high nutritional and economic value. Brevicoryne brassicae poses a great challenge to B. oleraceae var. acephala production, causing significant direct and indirect yield losses. Farmers overly rely on synthetic insecticides to manage the pest with limited success owing to its high reproductive behavior and development of resistance. This necessitates a search for sustainable alternatives to mitigate these challenges. This study assessed behavioral responses of B. brassicae to odors from rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and B. oleraceae var. acephala headspace volatiles in a Perspex four-arm olfactometer. We identified and quantified volatiles emitted by each of the two plants and those eliciting antennal response using coupled gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and GC-electroantennograhic detection(GC-EAD), respectively. Our findings revealed that B. brassicae spent more time in the arms of the olfactometer that contained B. oleraceae var. acephala volatiles compared to the arm that held R. officinalis volatiles. Additionally, B. brassicae spent more time in the olfactometer arms with B. oleracea var. acephala compared to the arms holding B. oleracea var. acephala and R. officinalis enclosed together and clean air. GC-MS analysis revealed diverse and higher quantities of volatile compounds in R. officinalis compared to B. oleraceae var. acephala. GC-EAD analysis showed that antennae of B. brassicae detected Linalool, α-Terpineol, Verbenone, Geraniol, Camphor, and Borneol from the volatiles of R. officinalis, and Sabinene, γ-Terpinene, and β-Caryophyllene from B. oleraceae var. acephala volatiles. Our findings demonstrate the potential of R. officinalis as a repellent plant against B. brassicae and could be utilized as a 'push' plant in an intercropping strategy against this pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tropical tuber crops such as cassava, sweet potatoes and elephant foot yam play vital roles in global food security and economic development, particularly in developing nations. The present study examines the current scenario of tuber crop production and trade dynamics, focusing on India's role both as a producer and an exporter. Using empirical data from various sources including Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority, the study analyses production trends, trade patterns and policy frameworks, to elucidate potential pathways for enhancing productivity, sustainability and competitiveness in the tuber crops sector. The analysis reveals significant growth in cassava and sweet potato production globally, with India emerging as a key player. However, climate change, pests and diseases, soil degradation, and trade barriers pose hurdles to the growth of the sector. This study also recommends comprehensive strategies, including climate-resilient agricultural practices, integrated pest management, soil health enhancement and infrastructure development, to address these challenges and promote the sustainable growth of tuber crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pest‐regulating natural enemies often require crop and non‐crop habitats to persist and be effective. These habitats offer hibernation sites, alternative prey or floral resources but can also be complementary in when they provide resources. The relative contribution of these different habitats to the performance of pest‐regulating insects is largely unknown, since it is difficult to study empirically. Landscape‐based population‐dynamical modelling can fill this research gap.In this study, we modelled the dynamics of predatory hoverflies (Diptera: Syrphinae) and their aphid prey in a collection of habitats. These hoverflies are dependent on different habitats for different reasons. While their larvae predate on aphids, adult hoverflies require floral resources. Resources are often segregated in different habitats. In addition, they are only temporarily available in any habitat type. In our model, hoverflies move between different habitats and select where to feed and where to produce off‐spring based on optimal foraging considerations. The model represents habitats common in arable landscapes and their temporal availability of resources is parameterized based on field observations.The model shows that effective pest suppression will only occur in the presence of at least three different habitats, including two crops that provide prey resources at different times of the year. A woody habitat with shrubs and trees provide aphid prey very early and late in the season, whereas an early crop and a late crop cover the period in between. In addition, these habitats need to provide floral resources in the same period as aphids, for example by flower strips in the margins of crop fields or blossoming trees or shrubs in the woody habitat. Under the model assumptions, the best pest suppression is obtained when the woody habitats take up 6% to 10% of the landscape. In addition to yearly population fluctuations, also bi‐ or multi‐yearly cycles may occur, depending on the composition of the landscape.Synthesis and applications. Our model shows when an agricultural landscape is 'complete' for natural enemies (and for effective pest control). For this, it needs to contain multiple habitats that supply floral and prey resources in different periods of the year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbicides have demonstrated their impact on insect fitness by affecting their associated microbiota or altering the virulence of entomopathogenic fungi toward insects. However, limited research has explored the implications of herbicide stress on the intricate tripartite interaction among insects, associated bacterial communities, and entomopathogens. In this study, we initially demonstrated that associated bacteria confer a leaf beetle, Plagiodera versicolora, with the capability to resist the entomopathogenic fungus Aspergillus nomius infection, a capability sustained even under herbicide glyphosate stress. Further analysis of the associated microbiota revealed a significant alteration in abundance and composition due to glyphosate treatment. The dominant bacterium, post A. nomius infection or following a combination of glyphosate treatments, exhibited strong suppressive effects on fungal growth. Additionally, glyphosate markedly inhibited the pathogenic associated bacterium Pseudomonas though it inhibited P. versicolora's immunity, ultimately enhancing the beetle's tolerance to A. nomius. In summary, our findings suggest that the leaf beetle's associated microbiota bestow an augmented resilience against the dual stressors of both the entomopathogen and glyphosate. These results provide insight into the effects of herbicide residues on interactions among insects, associated bacteria, and entomopathogenic fungi, holding significant implications for pest control and ecosystem assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since its inception, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) have been extensively used in functional genomics. Recent advancements in chemical modification and delivery technology extend its applications to the targeted management of crop pests. ASO was conceptualized in the early 1970s and first applied to inhibit retrovirus replication in chickens. The principles of ASOs rely on target complementarity by hybridizing with the mRNA and inhibiting the function. However, the application of ASO received little attention because of its high instability in the biological environment. Initial ASOs, featuring phosphorothioate linkages, laid the groundwork for subsequent advancements, by addressing challenges such as nuclease degradation and cellular uptake limitations. The second generation introduced 2'-modifications to enhance stability and specificity while allowing reversible gene regulation. Third-generation ASOs incorporated innovative chemical modifications like locked nucleic acids (LNAs), peptide nucleic acids (PNAs), phosphoramidate morpholino oligomers (PMOs), 2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro-d-arabinonucleic acid (FANA), cyclohexene nucleic acids (CeNAs), and tricyclo-DNA (tcDNA), offering enhanced efficacy and stability. ASO technology continues to evolve, promising precision medicine and customized therapies for genetic diseases. In agriculture, ASOs selectively target essential genes in pests or pathogens, which would be a novel option for providing precise crop protection and reducing reliance on conventional pesticides. Recent studies demonstrated successful ASO application in thrips, psyllids, Gypsy moths, scale insects, citrus greening, and Zebra-chip diseases. Additionally, ASOs hold the potential for improving crop yield and quality by modulating gene expression related to plant growth, development, and stress responses. They can enhance abiotic stress tolerance, regulate genes associated with specific traits, and offer alternative strategies for managing diseases, such as targeting S-genes in tomatoes for resistance against bacterial spots. These applications antecede the oligo-based pesticides that will revolutionize future agriculture by reducing pesticide uses and harmful impacts on the ecosystem. Further advancements in environmental stability, field efficacy, delivery formulation, and environmental safety would mold this technology into a novel tool for sustainable crop protection. This review highlights the fundamentals of ASO, recent advancements in design chemistry, delivery systems, validation and optimization process, and its potential in customized pest management. This would serve as a ready reckoner for future ASO research and application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Rose oil is used for medicinal, pharmaceutical, therapeutical purposes • Pharmacologically Damask Rose serves as an anti-HIV agent, source of antioxidant, antitussive usage, hypnotic uses, and anti-diabetic agent • Rose oil is reported to cure many physiological roles as well as psychological ailments of humans • Rose is prone to a number of pests viz., diseases, insect pests, nematodes, and weeds This review highlights recent advancements in the utilization of rose oil across medicinal, pharmaceutical, therapeutic, and clinical trials, as well as its integration into pest management strategies that significantly contribute to its economic value. The Damask Rose, recognized for its potent pharmacological properties, serves multiple roles including as an anti-HIV agent, antioxidant source, antitussive, hypnotic, anti-diabetic treatment, and tracheal system soother. There is a crucial focus on enhancing the content of aromatic monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes in Rosa damascena L. Clinical studies affirm that rose oil effectively addresses various physiological and psychological conditions such as pain relief, anxiety reduction, depression alleviation, respiratory system improvement, blood oxygenation, pulse regulation, skin temperature control, stress management, menstrual discomfort, and exhibits antifungal, antibacterial properties, and potential as a sex stimulant. Rose cultivation faces challenges from numerous pests including diseases, insects, nematodes, and weeds, which detrimentally affect yield and flower quality. Effective management of these pests ensures optimal returns for rose growers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines farmers' perceptions of agrochemical use in maize production and their harmful environmental effects. A convergent parallel mixed design was used to collect quantitative data from 254 respondents via structured interviews and qualitative data through in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions. The findings revealed that among those who were using agrochemicals, 98.9%, 59.2% and 49.7% used inorganic fertilizer to enhance soil fertility, pesticides to control pests and herbicides to kill weeds, respectively. Those who did not use agrochemicals were limited by many factors, including adverse effects of agrochemicals on the environment and lack of access to and the high cost of agrochemicals. Also, more than half of the respondents (51.2%) had limited knowledge about the harmful effects of agrochemicals on the environment. The perceived harmful effects of agrochemicals on the environment included being harmful to domestic animals and non-targeted insects and causing air pollution. The study provides insights for the government on how it could design and enforce educational programmes that would increase farmers' knowledge of the proper use of agrochemicals to protect the environment while maximizing maize production. This study contributes to the existing literature on how unawareness of farmers on the use of agrochemicals can adversely affect the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food grains were severely damaged by stored goods insects. The red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum, the cigarette beetle Lasioderma serricorne and the rice weevil Sitophilus orysae are some of the most destructive pests which attack raw cereals throughout the world. In stored grain mill, fumigation with synthetic fumigants was the most economical tool for managing stored pests. Nevertheless, the application of chemical pesticides caused adverse effects on humans and environment. Chloroform, acetone, methanol and water extracts and essential oil of Haplophyllum tuberculatum aerial parts were tested for their fumigant and repellent effect against adults of the three stored products pests (T. castaneum, L. serricorne and S. oryzae). GC/MS analysis of the essential oil resulted in determination of 19 compounds. The major constituents were β-phellandrene (16.17%), trans-p-menth-2-ene-1-ol, (13.22%) and cis-p-menth-2-ene-1-ol (8.29%). Thus, it seemed that the essential oil had the highest fumigant activity against L. serricorne after 12 h of exposure compared to the two other insects with a LC50 equal to 38.59 µ.l-1 air. The best repellency was observed for the chloroform and methanol extracts against T. castaneum. The respective repellent doses RD50 values were = 0.03 and 0.04 mg.ml-1 after 24 h of exposure. However, after 24 h of exposure acetone extract seems to be more repellent with respective repellent dose values of = 0.14 mg.ml-1 (RD50) against L. serricorne. H. tuberculatum essential oil and extract proved to be effective in control pest infestations in grains and dry food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Field experiments have demonstrated that wheat mixtures differ in their ability to regulate aphid populations. To further investigate the effectiveness of wheat mixtures (Triticum aestivum and Triticum turgidum) in controlling aphids, we conducted both laboratory and greenhouse experiments. Specifically, we assessed the associational resistance of two wheat mixtures (Florence‐Aurora with Forment, Florence‐Aurora with Montcada), and their respective monocultures, in different stages of the aphid host selection process. We analysed aphid acceptance rate, population growth, and load under different wheat treatments. Additionally, we characterised wheat aboveground biomass and nitrogen content as important functional traits for aphid resistant. Aphid acceptance decreased in plants of cv. Forment when exposed to volatiles from undamaged Florence‐Aurora plants, whereas the other tested combinations tested had no effect. Aphids performed differently in the two mixtures: Florence‐Aurora mixed with Forment significantly reduced aphid population growth and load compared to the monocultures, whereas the combination of Florence‐Aurora with Montcada wheat had no effect on aphid performance. The plant–plant interactions also modified the analysed traits. Nitrogen content of Florence‐Aurora wheat plants was reduced when mixed with Forment wheat, which may explain the lower aphid load observed in plants of cv. Florence‐Aurora when mixed with plants of cv. Forment. However, mixing wheats with similar aboveground biomass resulted in an increase in the average biomass of plants of both cultivars which could have led to a higher aphid population. The data supports the idea of right neighbour, as the benefits of wheat mixtures for aphid control were determined by the identity of the combined plants (or species). Finally, our results suggest that associating wheats with different traits may promote facilitative interactions, which in turn enhances associational resistance, whereas the combination of wheats with similar traits may result in competitive interactions that may hinder aphid control benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change, particularly temperature fluctuations, profoundly impacts pest populations. This study focuses on the tomato, a crucial commercial crop in the Eastern Himalayan Region of India. The study examined the impact of varying thermal regimes on tomato fruit borers. Field experiments were conducted at three locations, with altitudes ranging from < 500 to > 1500 m. At lower altitudes, fruit borer incidence commenced earlier (5th − 18th March) and peaked higher (1.47 ± 0.34 to 1.73 ± 0.37 larvae/plant), causing more damage (26–29%) as compared to the highest location (~ 9%). The generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) analysis indicated that maximum temperature had significant positive impacts on the H. armigera incidence and fruit damage. Climatic datasets indicate an increase in the temperature of the region during the tomato growing season, thereby increasing the risk of fruit borer impact. As an adaptation option, we evaluated eight different tomato varieties/genotypes and studied biochemical parameters to understand their tolerance. Results showed a strong positive association of fruit borer incidence with total soluble solids whereas negative association with acidity. Cherry tomato (7.62%) and MT-2 (10.04%) had relatively lower fruit damage; MT-3 (50.92 t/ha) and MT-2 (50.57 t/ha) consistently yielded the highest across all locations. Hence, the selection of appropriate genotypes and the development of varieties with suitable characteristics hold the key to fruit borer management. This insight is crucial for developing effective pest management strategies and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Begomovirus infections have threatened the global production of multiple crops, including Solanaceae species. Recombination, a frequent phenomenon in begomoviruses, has profound effects on viral populations, allowing them to adapt to changing environments. We previously isolated pepper yellow leaf curl Aceh virus (PepYLCAV) from pepper (Capsicum annuum), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) plants in Aceh Province, Indonesia, and determined that it is a recombinant of the widespread pepper yellow leaf curl Indonesia virus (PepYLCIV). To compare PepYLCAV with its major putative parent PepYLCIV in terms of virulence, multiple solanaceous species (Nicotiana benthamiana, pepper, and tomato) were inoculated with the two viruses. Symptom severity, growth inhibition, and viral DNA levels were greater with PepYLCAV than with PepYLCIV infection in N. benthamiana and tomato plants. In pepper plants, PepYLCAV caused severe leaf distortion rather than yellowing and greater growth inhibition than PepYLCIV did but with no increase in viral DNA. Inoculation with PepYLCAV compromised Ty-1-mediated resistance in tomato, resulting in moderate symptoms, which were not present in plants infected with PepYLCIV. A re-analysis of samples collected from fields in Indonesia from 2012 to 2019 using PCR showed that PepYLCAV rather than PepYLCIV has been the predominant species since 2017. The recombinant bipartite begomovirus PepYLCAV is more widespread and more virulent than its major putative parent PepYLCIV and can overcome the Ty-1-mediated resistance of commercial F1 hybrid tomato cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the impact of farmland size adjustment on net crop carbon emissions (NCEs) is crucial for both effective farmland management and sustainable development, which are essential topics in agri-environmental science. However, studies exploring the relationship between farmland size and NCEs remain limited, particularly in developing countries with scarce farmland, such as China. To fill this gap, this paper discusses farmland size's impact on NCEs using a threshold model combining endogenous switching regression (ESR) and two-stage least squares (2SLS) with survey data from 2600 Chinese farmers. The results show that increasing farmland size curbs the scale and intensity of NCEs. However, their relationship follows a triple threshold effect, where substantial NCEs mitigation occurs only when the per-household farmland size exceeds specific thresholds of 5.1, 15.2, and 46.7 ha. Expanding farmland size can also indirectly reduce NCEs by promoting green agricultural technologies (GAT) adoption. Moreover, lowering farmers' time preferences and enhancing technical training can increase the positive effect of farmland size expansion on GAT adoption and reduce NCEs further. However, the emission reduction effects vary by GAT type. Soil testing and fertilization technology, pest control technology, and water-saving irrigation technology reduce NCEs, while the other GAT have insignificant effects. Overall, our study sheds light on the intricate relationships between farmland size, GAT adoption, and NCEs, and provides valuable insights for low-carbon, sustainable agriculture policies. We suggest that policymakers can reduce NCEs and facilitate agriculture's low-carbon transition by promoting moderate farmland size expansion and locally adapted GAT. Key policy insights Expanding farmland size beyond specific thresholds of 5.1, 15.2, and 46.7 ha significantly reduces NCEs, but this relationship is nonlinear. China should promote appropriate scale management to transition toward low-carbon agriculture. Promoting the widespread dissemination of agricultural carbon mitigation technologies according to local conditions is crucial, especially for large farms to cut carbon emissions. Policymakers should demonstrate the long-term benefits of GAT to raise farmers' valuation of low-carbon agriculture constrained by their time preferences. Governments should provide technology training and learning opportunities to reduce the costs and risks of adopting GAT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the use of artificial sentinel prey in studying predation rates and predator-prey interactions in ecosystems. It highlights the challenges in quantifying predation and the benefits of using artificial sentinels for biological control and ecosystem service assessments. The authors critique a study by Rodriguez-Campbell et al. that found inconsistencies in predation rates measured with artificial sentinel prey compared to real prey, suggesting that artificial sentinel prey may not be suitable for biogeographical studies. The article emphasizes the importance of relative comparisons in ecological research and provides recommendations for improving the use of artificial sentinel prey in experiments. [Extracted from the article]

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), identified as an invasive pest worldwide, has severely threatened agricultural production and food security in India. To formulate eco‐friendly integrated pest management strategies for S. frugiperda in its new invasive habitat, the basic knowledge about demographic parameters and damage potential of this pest is crucial. The effects of five host crops viz. maize (Zea mays L.), popcorn (Zea mays everta Sturt), sweet corn (Zea mays saccharata Sturt), sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.)) and soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) on the development and food consumption of S. frugiperda were examined. Population projection curves based on life table and consumption rates were drawn on different hosts using computer simulation.The pre‐adult development of S. frugiperda was fastest on popcorn (28.02 days), maize (28.04 days) and sweet corn (28.31 days) but slowest on soybean (34.83 days). The highest net reproductive rate, intrinsic rate of increase and finite rate of increase were observed on maize. The feeding potential of S. frugiperda was also highest on maize. The maximum consumption of the sixth larval instar was observed on maize (19470.47 mm2) while lowest on soybean (9033.67 mm2). In the simulation period of 90 days, the fastest growth of S. frugiperda was expected on maize, popcorn and sweet corn while the slowest on soybean.High larval and pupal survival recorded on the non‐maize hosts (sorghum and soybean) reflects that fall armyworm could be an obstacle in their production as well as in the success of maize‐soybean intercropping system. Simulations based on age‐stage, two‐sex life table could be helpful in predicting the most appropriate time for the pesticide application as well as augmentative releases of egg and larval parasitoids for the control of fall armyworm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies have explored the potential of companion plants to manage pests through top–down or bottom–up effects in agricultural fields. Buckwheat is known as a good candidate for companion planting with various crops to enhance pest management, but rarely in soybeans.We investigated the impact of planting buckwheat as a new companion plant on the population dynamics of major soybean pests and their natural enemies in soybean fields in Andong, Republic of Korea. We recorded numbers of pests and natural enemies at 9–10‐day intervals from 20 soybean plants each in eight small experimental fields throughout the cropping season.Significant reduction in pests, such as Riptortus pedestris (F.) (Hemiptera: Alydidae) adults, and a significant increase in natural enemies, such as Orius species (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) and crab spiders (Araneae: Thomisidae), were observed in the buckwheat treatment plots. However, there were significant increases in other pests, such as leafminers and leafhoppers, in the buckwheat treatment plots. While we observed effects on R. pedestris adult density, we did not find significant effects on other developmental stages of this pest or its parasitoids.Although there were some concerns in the buckwheat treatment plots, the positive effects of buckwheat in soybean fields appear to outweigh the drawbacks. Buckwheat is likely a suitable companion plant for use in soybeans to manage pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the loss of effective chemical controls of crop pests, a move towards biological controls is a way to future‐proof our agricultural system. Floral field margins have shown successes in reducing crop pests, though the effect may not be precise enough to control infestations in commercial crops. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) may provide a more species‐ and time‐specific control and combining these methods may have synergy.Three in‐field vegetation margins, divided into four plots each (two floral and two grass), were established in March 2022. Three strips of sprouting broccoli were planted parallel in April, May and June. Each strip had a split‐plot design, with eight replicates of four nematode treatments placed alongside each floral/grass plot: Steinernema carpocapsae, S. feltiae and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora and a nematode‐free control.Pest pressure was assessed using adult counts. Assessments of crop yield and crop damage associated specifically with the swede smidge (Contarinia nasturtii) were also made.It was found that utilising a combination of control measures was successful in controlling a wider range of pests, though the success of each control method was highly dependent on the time of crop plantings. Field margins had a significant influence on crop damage associated with the swede midge. The EPN H. bacteriophora was an effective control method for the cabbage stem flea beetle and the swede midge, as well as reducing crop damage and yield loss.Field margins and EPNs combined have an interactive effect on crop yield, highlighting the need for control methods to be tested in combination in future integrated pest management research to accurately understand their effects within an integrated system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants 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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding of dicofol's behavior in soil is crucial for more precise pest control and minimal environmental effect. Therefore, the goal of this study was to assess how the physicochemical characteristics of 10 selected soils effects the sorption and degradation of dicofol behavior. The behavior of dicofol, including its adsorption and desorption properties as well as its rates of hydrolysis and photolysis degradation, was thoroughly examined via definitive studies. Standard batch equilibration mode for sorption revealed that it was dependent on the physical and chemical properties of the soil. Exothermic and spontaneous adsorption processes, which were characterized by a negative Gibbs free energy value, were convincingly proven by thermodynamic study. The current investigation's ΔG estimations varied from −18.6 kjmol−1 for soil-6 to −24.25 kjmol−1 for soil-9. The soil-7 with a notable organic matter content (1.81%) showed the maximum adsorption, and subsequently producing a C-type isotherm that was analyzed using a linear and Freundlich model. An analytical process using UV-VIS spectrophotometry to determine the fate of dicofol in soil matrices. Hydrolysis and photolysis studies yielded minimum half-lives of 13.4 and 1.32 days, respectively. It has been demonstrated that dicofol molecules interact strongly with soils, principally via physio-sorption mechanisms. In contrast to its strong soil affinity and permanence, dicofol exhibits a counterintuitive behavior that makes it vulnerable to sunlight-induced deterioration. Future studies will concentrate on enhancing these pathways to assist sustainable pesticide management strategies and creative pollution mitigation techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basal stem rot disease caused by Ganoderma boninense is a major problem for oil palm cultivation. The research was conducted to obtain biocontrol agents from rhizosphere of oil palm to control the disease as part of sustainable pest management in oil palm plantation. Rhizosphere bacteria were isolated from rhizospheres of healthy oil palm trees. Isolation of bacteria was done using serial dilution method. The isolated bacteria were then tested for its antifungal activity against G. boninense in vitro using dual culture assay. The ability of the bacteria to produce antifungal compound was also determined by culturing the bacteria on ISP2 liquid media. Once the bacterial cells were removed, the crude metabolites were then tested against G. boninense using agar well diffusion and toothpick colonization. The result showed that several isolates demonstrated strong antifungal activity against G. boninense. Some isolates were also able to degrade chitin and to solubilize phosphate. Furthermore, the crude metabolites produced by the rhizosphere bacteria demonstrated the ability to inhibit the growth of G. boninense in the agar diffusion method. Colonization of the G. boninense on toothpick following soaking in the crude metabolites was also inhibited. The isolated rhizosphere bacteria (BARK7 and BARK15 in which identified as Burkholderia sp.) showed promising ability to be developed as biocontrol agent for basal stem rot disease of oil palm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development and optimization of more sustainable pest control methods, primarily focusing on preventive strategies and non-chemical tools, is a global priority for scientists and agrochemical companies. This study examines Sicilian farmers' willingness to adopt organic pest management practices for protecting tomatoes and zucchini from two key insect pests, namely Tuta absoluta and Bemisia tabaci. We implemented the Theory of Planned Behavior as a cognitive model to explore individual motivations that influence farmers' readiness to adopt sustainable pest control practices. Results from partial least squares structural equation modeling on a sample of 85 farmers emphasize the importance of farmers' behavioral constructs in the decision-making process: Farmers' attitudes are the strongest predictors of intention (ß = 0.454; p < 0.01), followed by social norms (ß = 0.201; p < 0.1) and perceived behavioral control (ß = 0.184; p < 0.01). Intention and perceived behavioral control constructs positively and significantly affect the stated behavior construct (respectively, ß = 0.23; ß = 0.24). Traditional farm/farmer socio-economic characteristics have a notable, yet smaller, influence: Farmers' education positively predicts their willingness to adopt (ß = 0.292; p < 0.01), while farmers' age is negatively correlated (ß = −0.130; p < 0.01). Informational campaigns on the importance of organic pest management on improving soil health and biodiversity should be promoted to strengthen farmers attitudes toward organic pest management. Similarly, policy-makers should enhance farmers perceived behavioral control by providing better information about characteristics and procedures of organic pest management protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study has addressed the management of Ceratitis capitata (Mediterranean fly) in Ecuador, focused on mitigating the impact on fruit crops under the influence of climate change and variations in agricultural practices. By using neutrosophic statistics, the study has modeled uncertainty in climatic and agricultural variables to improve the prediction and adaptability of management strategies. Integrated strategies have been proposed, which have included biological control, cultural management, and the use of insecticides, highlighting the effectiveness of adapting management practices based on neutrosophic analysis. The results indicated that the adaptations of strategies, provided by neutrosophic statistics, allowed an effective response to environmental variations, to maintain the effectiveness of pest control in the long term. In conclusion, the combination of management strategies with neutrosophic statistics is vital for effective control of Ceratitis capitata, by facilitating a proactive and adaptive approach in the face of changing conditions, to strengthen agricultural resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pest management in modern agriculture, particularly in sugarcane cultivation, faces the challenge of balancing efficacy, costs, and environmental sustainability. Among the notable pests, the spittlebug (Mahanarva andigena) emerged as a significant threat that reduced yields of sugar and other derivatives. Traditionally, it was controlled with chemical pesticides, which posed environmental and human health risks. Consequently, the study conducted analyzed alternatives by using neutrosophic statistics and plithogenic analysis. The results included evaluating factors such as product concentration, application frequency, environmental conditions, and pest resistance to determine the efficacy of treatments with entomopathogenic microorganisms. Eficax stood out as the best treatment, showing significant improvements in plant growth and a high mortality rate of spittlebugs. In conclusion, the neutrosophic statistical analysis provided an efficient and economically viable solution for responsible agricultural management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Promoting arthropods in agricultural landscapes can contribute substantially to stop their decline and enhance pest control. Higher soil moisture and the presence of field margins can increase the abundance of arthropods in agricultural landscapes and influence their distribution within crop fields. However, little is known about the influence of soil moisture and distance from field margins on the overwintering of arthropods in arable fields. We investigated the influence of soil moisture and distance from a field margin on the numbers of arthropods, ground beetles and spiders emerging from soil in winter wheat fields. We established transects in winter wheat fields away from two different types of field margins: (i) around small standing water bodies (kettle holes) to capture a wide range of soil moisture values and (ii) other semi-natural landscape elements. At three distances (1 m, 20 m, 50 m), we sampled arthropods with emergence traps and measured soil moisture between March and June. We found that soil moisture had a positive effect on the emergence numbers of arthropods in general and ground beetles and spiders in particular. Distance from field margins generally had negative effects on the emergence numbers of ground beetles, but positive effects on the emergence numbers of spiders. Emergence numbers and soil moisture content did not differ significantly between the two types of field margins. The high emergence numbers inside the fields indicate that arable fields are important overwintering habitats for beneficial arthropods. Proper management of arable soils to promote soil water holding capacity and soil moisture content may have the added benefit of promoting the production of beneficial natural enemies from local soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated pest management (IPM) is a sustainable approach for minimizing the negative impacts of pests on crops while reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides. This study was conducted in Kwara State Nigeria in 2023, to investigate the effects of implementation of IPM practices on the occurrence of pesticide residues in okra cultivated by the farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria, and identify the factors affecting the use of IPM practices for pest control in okra production. A sample of 245 okra farmers was selected across 4 agricultural zones of Kwara State using a multistage sampling technique. Additionally, okra samples were collected from the farmers of each community of the local government areas. The data collected from the farmers were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics including frequency count, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and Pearson product moment correlation (PPMC). The collected okra samples were taken to the laboratory for pesticide residue extraction and analysis was performed using gas chromatography (GC)-mass spectrometer (MS). The results showed that most okra producers in Kwara State were smallholder farmers who, despite practicing IPM, had limited knowledge of the technology. Some pesticide residues were detected in okra, out of which two were present in quantities above the maximum residue limit, while others were below the maximum residue limit. Therefore, this study recommends that the government should improve extension services in the State by providing adequate funds and training extension agents who can provide comprehensive training to farmers on the types and application of IPM as an eco-friendly technology for preventing pesticide residue in okra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plutella xylostella is considered the main pest of cabbage in Brazil and the world, causing damage of up to 100%. Thus, this study evaluated the insecticidal activity of extracts obtained from the fruits, seeds, bark, leaves, and flowers of Handroanthus impetiginosus against the diamondback moth, P. xylostella larvae. The seed extract showed the highest mortality (97.0%) compared to the control treatment. The LC50 values indicated that the seed and flower extracts (0.01003 and 0.01288 mg/L respectively) assumed the highest toxicity to P. xylostella larvae after 24 h of exposure. The results of this study indicated that the seeds extract is the most promising toxic extract, with measured mortality of approximately 97.0% for P. xylostella larvae after 144 h of exposure in kale plants. Seed extract showed the best insecticidal activity. Thus, this extract can be applied to develop an insecticide based on H. impetiginosus seed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cities are increasingly recognised as important sites for biodiversity and essential for improving human-nature connections. However, urban areas are also hotspots for rats, which negatively impact biodiversity due to competition and depredation. Urban residents may undertake rat control on their properties, but the effectiveness of such volunteer initiatives for broader biodiversity outcomes has not been tested in urban environments. We conducted a comprehensive study inclusive of rat abundance, adult bird diversity, and bird breeding success. We monitored rat (Norway rat Rattus norvegicus; ship rat Rattus rattus) presence and modelled detection probabilities and occupancy in suburban residential backyards in Auckland, New Zealand. We also compared bird abundance and richness among backyards and recorded 140 nesting attempts from 15 bird species between September 2021 and February 2022. Despite rat control, rats were detected at some point in all backyards, though relative abundance was low, and fewer rats were detected in backyards with more frequent rat control. Higher bird abundance, and to a lesser extent richness, were associated with proximity to native vegetation patches and more frequent rat control. Overall fledging success was relatively high and predation by rats was relatively low compared to previous research. Nest survival was slightly higher for introduced bird species. Daily nest survival rate increased with nest height, proximity to native vegetation patches, and when rat detection rates decreased. Although the effect was small, frequent rat control within a backyard was associated with increased fledging success and increased bird species richness and abundance. Further research is required to explore the factors that interact with backyard rat control to improve local outcomes for birds. High levels of community participation in backyard rat control are required to improve neighbourhood-wide outcomes for birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No current technology can specifically target grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) for control within aquatic ecosystems. Rotenone and Carbon Dioxide-Carp are currently the only available registered pesticides for grass carp; they are nonselective and typically applied throughout the water, equally exposing target and native species. A more selective control tool or pesticide application could be used by resource managers to support mitigation efforts. Development of delivery systems that exploit carp feeding strategies could increase selectivity of pesticides and minimize effects on native fishes. A pesticide with selective delivery could be less labor intensive and used within an integrative pest management strategy. The present study examined Antimycin A toxicity in juvenile and sub-adult grass carp and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) across two routes of exposure. Water-based toxicity studies were used to calculate the concentration to cause lethality in 50% of treated fish (LC50) at 24-h, while oral gavage toxicity studies were used to calculate the dose to cause lethality in 50% of treated grass carp and rainbow trout (LD50) 24- to 96-h. Although rainbow trout were more sensitive than grass carp to Antimycin A through water-based exposure, oral toxicity was similar between species, even with inherent gastrointestinal morphological differences. Successful delivery of a lethal dose of Antimycin A to grass carp was achieved through an oral route of exposure using the rapeseed bait and shows promise for registration as a control tool and eventual use in pest management plans. Although a lethal dose of Antimycin A could be incorporated into a single bait pellet, more bait was required to achieve desired mortality when fed to fish under laboratory conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food production is known to have significant environmental impacts, with the main contributors residing in the farming and transportation life cycle phases. Of the various food products transported around the world, avocados have increasingly gained attention as a high-commodity superfood. Avocados require specific climatic and agricultural conditions for farming, with the most fertile land and conditions located outside Europe. Consequently, most avocados consumed in Europe are imported over vast geographical distances, with little information available to quantify the environmental impacts of this imported superfood. This paper aims to present the most detailed life cycle assessment results of an avocado cultivated, grown and harvested in the Limpopo Province of South Africa and exported to the European market for sale and consumption. A life cycle assessment was developed for the farming, harvesting, handling, packaging, ripening, transportation, and carbon sequestration potential of the avocado, and it was used to conduct a holistic life cycle assessment. Input data was obtained through an 18-month data collection campaign across the relevant stakeholders. A baseline 'business-as-usual' scenario is focused on throughout this study, and scope for optimisation is identified for each life cycle phase where applicable, accompanied by uncertainty analyses. Results show a total carbon input of 904.85 kg CO2e/tonne. Mitigating this, 521.88 kg CO2e/tonne is offset, resulting in a net carbon footprint of 382.97 kg CO2e/tonne with uncertainty ranges of −23.22 to +58.69 kg CO2e/tonne, normalised to 57.45 g CO2e/avocado grown in South Africa and sold in Europe. The environmental impacts of the avocado industry under consideration are largely mitigated by the "nature first" philosophy of the farming and logistics enterprises, which have made significant investments in reducing emissions. Sensitivity analyses indicate that implementing large-scale renewable energy, using alternative packaging instead of cardboard, and selling avocados unripened could further enable the farming enterprise to achieve Net Zero objectives. These measures could reduce baseline emissions from 382.97 kg CO2e/tonne to a theoretical −68.54 kg CO2e/tonne, representing a 117.9% decrease. Although this study does not quantify climate change impacts, qualitative analyses suggest that climate change will have a net negative effect on the avocado industry in South Africa. These regions, typically located in micro-climates, are projected to become wetter and warmer, adversely affecting crop phenology, pest control, road conditions, management complexity, farmer livelihoods, and food security. The study recommends large-scale implementation of the optimisation strategies identified to achieve Net Zero objectives and the development of proactive climate change mitigation strategies to enhance the resilience of avocado supply chains to future stressors. These insights are crucial for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and consumers aiming to promote sustainability in the avocado market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The common vole is an agricultural pest and population outbreaks have caused significant crop damage in the agricultural areas of the west‐central part of the Iberian Peninsula (Spain) during the last few decades. Thus, monitoring is imperative to gain a comprehensive insight on its spatiotemporal habitat colonization dynamics. This work was performed on a long‐term database with the primary objective of establishing an operational framework for understanding the spatial and temporal distribution of the common vole, all of it based on the Getis‐Ord statistics. RESULTS: The temporal evolution of the vole abundance index (VAI) was consistent for the three studied habitats, that is, crops, reservoirs and paths. Furthermore, the majority of common vole abundance peaks coincide with summer periods, especially in annual herbaceous crops. The spatial distribution of vole abundance exhibited a non‐random pattern, characterized by spatial clustering. Particularly, the areas with higher significance of this clustering were located at the so‐called 'Tierra de Campos' county, covering northern Valladolid, southern Palencia and north‐eastern Zamora provinces. Periods of major incidence and concentration were 2013–2014, 2016–2017 and 2019. Common vole temporal occupancy patterns demonstrate that colonization occurred simultaneously in alfalfa reservoirs and dispersion paths, both preceding settlement in annual herbaceous crop plots. CONCLUSION: The geographic information system (GIS)‐hotspots‐based methodology proposed here can be valuable for stakeholders involved in integrated management of the common vole, serving as a detector of pest‐prone areas in both space and time. These hotspots are useful for predicting future surveillance areas that accurately reflect pest colonization patterns. It was found that common vole abundance along dispersal paths acts as a source of dissemination, preceding the risk of colonization in annual herbaceous crop plots. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Evolution of herbicide‐resistant weed populations is a major challenge to world food production. Using different herbicides in rotation and/or using different herbicides together as mixtures are strategies that may delay the selection of resistance. This study used simulation modelling to investigate whether mixtures and rotations can delay the selection of both generalist polygenic and specialist monogenic herbicide resistance, and whether these strategies are more likely to lead to the selection of generalist resistance in weed types with varying biological characteristics. RESULTS: Our simulations suggest that well‐designed effective herbicide mixtures should delay evolution of both polygenic and monogenic resistance better than rotations and single herbicides across all weed types. Both mixture and rotation strategies increased the likelihood of polygenic resistance compared to single‐herbicide use, and the likelihood of polygenic resistance increased as the fecundity and competitiveness of the weed increased. Whether monogenic or polygenic resistance occurred in each case depended most on the relative initial allele frequencies. We did not find that herbicide mixtures were more likely than rotations to lead to the selection of generalist polygenic resistance. The simulated efficacy of mixtures over rotations decreased if components were used at reduced rates or when individual components had already been used solo. CONCLUSION: Herbicide rotations and particularly well‐designed mixtures should delay evolution of both polygenic and monogenic resistance, especially if used as part of an effective integrated weed management programme. However, herbicide mixtures and rotations may also increase the risk that resistance will be generalist polygenic rather than specialist monogenic. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Genetic improvement of crop varieties requires significant investment. Therefore, varieties must be developed to suit a broad range of breeding targets, such as yield and suitability to rainfall zones, farm management practices and quality traits. In the case of breeding for disease resistance, breeders need to consider the value of genetic improvement relative to other disease management strategies and the dynamics of pathogen genetic and phenotypic diversity. This study uses a benefit–cost analysis framework to assess the economic value of fungicide management and crop genetic improvement in disease resistance for Australian chickpea varieties. RESULTS: When assessing the likelihood of growers switching to new crop varieties with improved genetic resistance to disease, the simulation results reveal that adopting these varieties yielded higher net benefit values compared to implementing current fungicide strategies across all rainfall zones. On average, the increase in net benefit varied between 2.6% and 3.5%. Conversely, when we examined the scenario involving modifying the current fungicide strategy, we observed that, on average, switching from the current fungicide management strategy to one which involved additional fungicides was beneficial in about 73% of the cases. CONCLUSION: Our analysis reveals the importance of factors such as commodity prices, production costs, disease‐related variables and risk aversion in determining the economic benefits of adopting new crop protection strategies. Furthermore, the research reveals the need for accessible information and reliable data sources when evaluating the benefits of new agricultural technologies. This would assist growers in making informed and sustainable disease management decisions. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for pesticide application show promising potential in tobacco pest management. However, the impact of flight parameters on spray efficacy requires further investigation. Three field experiments were conducted from the rosette to the maturation stage of tobacco to systematically assess spray efficacy under varying flight heights, speeds, and application volumes. Using a multi‐index weight analysis method, optimal operational parameter combinations for different tobacco growth stages were evaluated and compared with backpack electric sprayers. RESULTS: For the rosette stage, the recommended parameter is a flight speed of 5 m s−1, a flight height of 2 m, and a liquid application volume of 30 L hm−2; during the vigorous growth stage, the suggested parameter includes a flight speed of 3 m s−1, a flight height of 2 m, and a liquid application volume of 22.5 L hm−2. In the maturing stage, optimal parameter consists of a flight speed of 3 m s−1, a flight height of 3.5 m, and a liquid application volume of 30 L hm−2. Furthermore, UAV spraying achieves higher droplet deposition on both sides of tobacco leaves compared to traditional electric backpack sprayers. CONCLUSIONS: Adjusting UAV spraying parameters for different tobacco growth stages is crucial. These results can provide the methods for the precise control technology of tobacco pests at different growth stages. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: A 4‐year experiment evaluated the effects of different integrated weed management (IWM) programs on the evolution of a Echinochloa crus‐galli population resistant to acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitors in a maize cropping system. The programs included the continued use of ALS inhibitors, mixing them with alternative herbicides, or without ALS‐inhibitors, in all cases under maize monocrop or a biennial crop rotation. RESULTS: IWM programs that relied solely on non‐ALS‐inhibitors usually achieved high control levels across years (> 90%). Additionally, Trp574Leu‐resistant plants became prevalent (> 90%) in programs only using ALS inhibitors, while in the rest the frequency of susceptible plants did not substantially decrease below 40%. Regarding the other monitored grass weeds, Digitaria sanguinalis and Panicum dichotomiflorum were effectively controlled in programs using ALS‐inhibitors without soybean rotation or in programs without ALS‐inhibitors altogether, excepting the program relying on an 4‐hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD)‐inhibitor under maize monocrop for the latter species (0%). CONCLUSION: At the end of the experiment, the only IWM programs that reduced infestation levels were the one without ALS‐inhibitors under soybean rotation, and the one with standard pre‐emergence treatments. These findings highlight the effectiveness of crop rotation and alternative herbicides both pre‐ or post‐emergence in controlling E. crus‐galli. ALS‐inhibitors, while challenged by resistance in E. crus‐galli, remain valuable tools for managing other grass weed species in maize. It is crucial to adapt IWM strategies for herbicide‐resistant E. crus‐galli and other grass weed populations to mitigate the further evolution of resistance. © 2024 Corteva Agriscience. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]