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Chemical control is the most common method used to control Agonoscena pistaciae Burckhardt & Lauterer (Hemiptera: Psyllidae). This study compared the application of the five most widely used insecticides in the management of A. pistaciae which has resulted in significant yield losses, in Siirt (Kurtalan) and Şanlıurfa (Birecik) in 2023. Active ingredients spinetoram, lambda-cyhalothrin, deltamethrin, sulfoxaflor, and spirotetramat were examined in the study. The study was designed with four replications, and its characters were formed by the insecticides registered concentration and the control. The plots measured 3 x 3 = 9 trees. Nymph and adult counts were conducted from the middle trees before, as well as 7, 14, and 21 days after application following the application of the spray. The Henderson-Tilton formula was used to analyze the counting data for nymph or adult counts in each plot of leaf samples. All registered active ingredients effected the A. pistaciae above %80 all count days. Among the active ingredients the biological efficacy of spirotetramat was the highest compared to other insecticides. These active ingredients can be used to control A. pistaciae, with consideration given to the pest's potential resistance to insecticides and the impact of the ingredients on natural enemies.

Kanzawa spider mites Tetranychus kanzawai, are among the most widespread and serious pests that infest economically important crops such as cassava. It is important to screen the toxicity of the available agrochemicals with acaricidal effects because chemical control remains an integral part in the management of these pests. This study presents the results of laboratory-based experiments that examined how T. kanzawai responded to six acaricides, namely abamectin, emamectin benzoate, fenpyroximate, hexythiazox, spirotetramat, and chlorfenapyr through leaf disk assay. Diluted concentrations of each of the six acaricides were prepared at 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 10, 100, and 1000mg of active ingredient per liter of solution. The study revealed that among the six registered acaricides in the Philippines, fenpyroximate has the most potent toxic effects on the mites' eggs, but it shows lower toxicity towards the adults. Conversely, hexythiazox exhibits high toxicity to adults but, based on a previous study, does not surpass the toxicity of the biorational alternatives abamectin and emamectin benzoate. The results of this study contribute to greater evidence that some acaricides are ineffective against T. kanzawai. The study revealed that hexythiazox and fenpyroximate can alternatively be used in managing T. kanzawai. Considering cassava's importance as a vital root crop, educating farmers on the responsible use of these acaricides is vital for the effective management of T. kanzawai , thereby ensuring cassava crop yield preservation and food security. These efforts can contribute to the development of targeted and sustainable pest management strategies for T. kanzawai in cassava cultivation.

Boxwood, valued at over $140.9 million annually in the United States, faces a significant threat from boxwood blight disease. This study evaluated 24 treatment combinations involving three fungicides (Daconil Weatherstik, Postiva, and F6123-1), a disinfectant/fungicide (KleenGrow), a host-plant defense inducer (Actigard), and an anti-transpirant (Vapor Gard) for managing boxwood blight. Preventive applications were performed 24 h before pathogen inoculation, while curative treatments were applied at 14-d intervals, starting 14 d after inoculation. The disease severity (0% to 100% plant affected), area under disease progress curve (AUDPC), plant growth, defoliation (0% to 100%), and stem water potential (MPa) were assessed. All the applications significantly reduced disease severity and AUDPC compared with the non-treated, inoculated control. Preventative applications of Actigard alternated (alt.) with Vapor Gard and Actigard alone consistently reduced the disease progression, while Actigard alt. with Vapor Gard reduced the disease severity. Curative application of the low rate of Postiva exhibited the highest disease suppression, comparable to applications of F6123-1 alt. with Vapor Gard and the high rate of Postiva alt. with Vapor Gard. The preventative and curative application of the high rate of Postiva alt. with Vapor Gard was the most effective in reducing disease severity and slowing disease progression. Preventive and curative application of Daconil Weatherstik, KleenGrow, and Daconil Weatherstik alt. with KleenGrow were also effective. None of the preventive treatments significantly reduced defoliation. However, curative applications of F6123-1 alt. with Vapor Gard and preventive and curative treatments of the high rate of Postiva alt. with Vapor Gard consistently reduced the defoliation. Preventive application of Actigard alt. with Vapor Gard, curative application of the low rate of Postiva alt. Vapor Gard, and preventive and curative treatments of the high rate of Postiva alt. Vapor Gard, as well as Vapor Gard alone, resulted in the highest stem water potential among treated plants. A weak positive correlation was observed between stem water potential and disease development. The identified combinations and application strategies provide options for effective boxwood blight management when combined with other management strategies.

Peniophora salaccae (Russulales, Basidiomycota), a newly identified pathogen of Salacca zalacca, is a major cause of snake fruit rot, resulting in significant agricultural losses. This study evaluates the efficacy of chemical fungicides and biological controls against P. salaccae SKRU002, focusing on disease suppression and fruit quality preservation. Commercial fungicides (propiconazole®, prochloraz®, metalaxyl®, azoxystrobin®, thiram®) and Streptomyces philanthi strains RM-1-138 and RL-1-178 were tested. In vitro, prochloraz® (1000 μL mL−1) fully inhibited P. salaccae growth, outperforming other fungicides. Both S. philanthi strains exhibited strong antifungal activity through volatile and non-volatile compounds. Additionally, autoclaved (at 121 °C for 15 min) and diluted (1/1000) bacterial culture filtrates (BCF) from both strains achieved over 55 % inhibition of P. salaccae. In liquid culture, RM-1-138 (86.80 %) and RL-1-178 (80.86 %) demonstrated greater inhibition than metalaxyl® (9.34 %) and azoxystrobin® (56.84 %), though prochloraz® and propiconazole® remained the most effective (100 %). In vivo, untreated fruits inoculated with P. salaccae showed 100 % disease incidence, significant weight loss (13.28 %), color changes (L∗, a∗, and b∗), and reductions in total soluble solids, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity, while titratable acidity remained unchanged. Both biological and chemical treatments effectively controlled the pathogen and preserved fruit quality. These findings highlight the potential of S. philanthi strains and fungicides in managing P. salaccae, offering promising strategies for snake fruit cultivation.

Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), es una plaga importante de los cítricos que transmite la bacteria (Candidatus Liberibacter spp.), responsable de la enfermedad enverdecimiento de los cítricos. El control químico de esta plaga es el método más utilizado por los citricultores de México. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar la efectividad biológica de imidacloprid en el control de Diaphorina citri en el cultivo de naranja (Citrus sinensis L.) en el estado de San Luis Potosí, México. Se utilizó un diseño de bloques completamente al azar, con 20 unidades experimentales con una superficie total de 1960 m2, se realizaron dos aplicaciones a intervalos de siete días de las tres dosis de imidacloprid, 30, 40 y 50 mL por 100 L de agua y se comparó con un testigo comercial tiametoxam (3 g/árbol), más un testigo sin aplicar. Los datos fueron analizados con la prueba de comparación de medias de Tukey (α = 0,05), empleando el paquete de análisis estadístico SAS. Todas las dosis de imidacloprid fueron efectivas en el control de ninfas y adultos de Diaphorina citri, sin diferencias estadísticas con el testigo regional tiametoxam (3 g/árbol). Imidacloprid alcanzó eficacias de control de ninfas de 93,83% y del 88,8% en adultos, las mejores dosis fueron 40 y 50 mL / 100 L de agua.

Mexico is the 8th largest producer of tomatoes. Meloidogyne enterolobii is reported in Sinaloa, affecting tomato cultivars with genetic resistance to Meloidogyne spp. We aimed to evaluate field applications of fluopyram, fluensulfone, and fluazaindolizine treatments for managing M. enterolobii on tomatoes. Experiments were set on raised beds in a shade house. Nematicides were applied via drip irrigation. Under fluopyram treatment, M. enterolobii did not reduce the number of extra-large-size fruits. The number of large-size fruits with fluopyram and fluazaindolizine plus fluopyram treatments was also unaffected by M. enterolobii. Yield from the treatments fluopyram, fluazaindolizine plus fluopyram, and fluensulfone plus fluopyram was similar to the control treatment without M. enterolobii. Finally, fluazaindolizine plus fluopyram, fluopyram, and fluensulfone plus fluopyram treatments showed the highest reduction of root galling. We conclude that the fluopyram was more effective as an individual treatment. Pre-plant applications of fluensulfone and fluazaindolizine reduced the damage to the plant and the loss of yield; however, the complementary application of fluorinated nematicides improved the management of M. enterolobii in the tomato crop.

In the production of grafted vines, losses are caused by fungal pathogens during callus forming or after planting in the soil. To control or reduce natural soil-born fungal infections in nurseries, certain applications were conducted in the sapling cultivation stage to analyse the efficacy of cyprodinil + fludioxonil, fluopyram + tebuconazole active substances, and Trichoderma harzianum biological preparation: 1103 Paulsen rootstock and Vitis viniferea L. cv. In the study, Sultana cultivars were stored in fungicide suspensions for 60 min before and after grafting. After grafting, the saplings were divided into (i) cutting + sawdust (ii) cutting + sawdust + soil application groups and transferred to the callus room. After nine months in the nursery, the plants were uprooted, classified as diseased or healthy, and analysed for morphological and molecular diagnosis of fungal species, isolation incidence, and sapling quality and yield. Boeremia exigua var. exigua was isolated for the first time from cuttings during grapevine sapling production and was first registered in NCBI Genbank. After callus development, Fusarium solani was most frequently isolated pathogen in the roots (21.5%); cyprodinil + fludioxonil reduced the Ilyonectria sp. isolation rate in both shoots and roots. Botryosphaeria dothidae and I. liriodendri pathogens were not detected in disease and healthy cyprodinil + fludioxonil treated saplings. The highest sapling yield was observed in fludioxonil + cyprodinil, cutting + sawdust + soil (78.75%) and cutting + sawdust (70.63%) applications.

The almond tree, following the olive tree, holds the distinction of being the fruit species occupying the largest area in Morocco, spanning 128,000 ha and hosting 16 million trees. This sector holds immense socio-economic significance both nationally and globally. Despite its prominence, the almond tree faces severe phytosanitary challenges, prominently among them, the False tiger bug of the almond tree, Monosteira unicostata (Mulsant & Rey [Hemiptera: Tingidae]). This polyphagous, sedentary, and gregarious hemipteran, boasting five larval instars and typically generating four generations annually, exhibits a life cycle duration ranging from 2 to 3 months contingent on the season. This pest inflicts notable harm on almond tree leaves by extracting their chlorophyll content through its piercing mouthparts and depositing excrement, impeding respiratory function and adversely impacting fruit development, maturation, and overall production. Diverse control strategies have been implemented to tackle this issue, commencing with prophylaxis involving resistant varieties and sound agricultural practices. Subsequently, biological control methods leveraging natural enemies such as Piocoris luridus and species from families including Coccinellidae, Anthocoridae, Lygaeidae, Miridae, and Nabidae have been employed. Plant-based biopesticides such as azadirachtin (Azadirachta indica), thyme oil (Thymus zygis), Jatropha oil (Jatropha curcas), and concentrated extracts of Artemisia absinthium, as well as mineral-based approaches involving treated kaolin sprays through particle film technology, contribute to the arsenal of control measures. In cases of severe infestations, synthetic active ingredients such as organophosphates, pyrethroids, carbamates, abamectin, and deltamethrin, among others, have proven efficacy in managing this pest.

ABSTRACT: Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is an increasingly important source of food, rural employment, and financial income, contributing to the social stabilization of rural areas, especially in developing countries. However, this crop is very sensitive to diseases, which drastically affect yield, in addition to increasing production costs for their control and the risk of environmental contamination. This study evaluated the control of late blight (Phytophthora infestans) in potato cv. Ágata based on the Blitecast disease forecast system and tuber yield in two growing seasons. The experiments were conducted in the spring of 2022 and autumn of 2023 in the municipality of Passo Fundo. Different accumulated severity values (SV) were calculated by the Blitecast model, which constituted the treatments SV 18, SV 24 and SV 30, in addition to a weekly treatment and a control without application. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks with four replications, in which each plot had five rows of plants measuring 3 m in length. Late blight severity and the final tuber yield were evaluated. The use of the Blitecast forecast system to control potato late blight allows for a reduction in the number of fungicide applications without affecting the final tuber yield. The forecast system should be used as a tool for the integrated management of potato diseases.

Studies on herbicide selectivity to peanuts detected differences according to the evaluated active ingredient and genotypes. This study analyzed the herbicide selectivity of two genotypes at an early stage. Pre-emergence (trifluralin, pendimethalin, diclosulam, s-metolachlor, imazethapyr + flumioxazin, clomazone, sulfentrazone, and imazapic) and post-emergence (imazapic, bentazon, bentazon + imazamox, clethodim, quizalofop-p-ethyl, cloransulam-methyl, s-metolachlor, lactofen, 2,4-D, and carfentrazone) applications were assessed in 1253 OL and 2133 OL breeding lines. The effects of pre- (PRE) and post-emergence (POST) herbicides were the same for both genotypes, with PRE not affecting seedling emergence and shoot and root dry mass. Diclosulam was among the most selective PRE herbicides, while the clomazone treatment caused only mild damage. All tested POST herbicides caused damage for up to 14 days after application (DAA). At 28 DAA, most herbicides exhibited the same damage as the untreated control. Lactofen caused mild damage (11.8%) without reducing plant height and shoot and root dry mass. Diclosulam, clomazone, and lactofen are unregistered for peanut crops in Brazil, and further studies should test their selectivity for peanut cultivars. Screening studies on selectivity to imazapic, 2,4-D, and carfentrazone are also relevant to identifying sources of tolerance in peanut germplasm.

ABSTRACT: Seed predation is a problem that limits the use of direct sowing of tree species, and it is necessary to develop studies involving products used in seed treatment. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of treatment with insecticides on the storage and germination of seeds of six forest species. Seeds were treated with thiamethoxam and cyantraniliprole and germinated on paper and sand substrates at 25 °C under constant light. For storage, the seeds were treated and analyzed at 0, 3 and 6 months. For both tests, the following variables were evaluated: germination, mortality, hard seeds, abnormal seedlings, average length of shoot and primary root, and germination speed index (GSI). For Senna multijuga, treatment with insecticides had no effect. Peltophorum dubium and Enterolobium contortisiliquum showed positive effects of the treatments on seedling vigor and development, while Guazuma ulmifolia displayed a negative effect on primary root length. Bowdichia virgilioides and Hymenaea courbaril seeds were sensitive to the treatments. It is possible to treat and store P. dubium and E. contortisiliquum seeds with thiamethoxam for up to six months.

A novel species of Mucor was identified as the causal agent of a brown rot of Prunus domestica (European plum), widely grown in the south of Xinjiang, China. This disease first appears as red spots after the onset of the fruits. With favorable environmental conditions, fruit with infected spots turn brown, sag, expand, wrinkle, and harden, resulting in fruit falling. Fungal species were isolated from infected fruits. A phylogenetic analysis based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions and the large subunit (LSU) of the nuclear ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene regions strongly supported that these isolates made a distinct evolutionary lineage in Mucor (Mucoromycetes, Mucoraceae) that represents a new taxonomic species, herein named as Mucor xinjiangensis. Microscopic characters confirmed that these strains were morphologically distinct from known Mucor species. The pathogenicity of M. xinjiangensis was confirmed by attaching an agar disk containing mycelium on fruits and re-isolation of the pathogen from symptomatic tissues. Later, fourteen fungicides were selected to determine the inhibitory effect on the pathogen. Further, results showed that difenoconazole had the best effect on the pathogen and the strongest toxicity with the smallest half maximal effective concentration (EC50) value, followed by a compound fungicide composed of difenoconazole with azoxystrobin, mancozeb, prochloraz with iprodione, pyraclostrobin with tebuconazole, and trifloxystrobin with tebuconazole and ethhylicin. Present study provides the basis for the prevention and control of the novel plum disease and its pathogen.

Abstract Date palm trees, their cultivation and harvesting have become challenging due to infestations caused by some specific mites including Oligonychus afrasiaticus (McGregor) (Tetranychidae). Current research has been carried out to investigate the efficiency of nine pesticides against eggs and date palm mite, Oligonychus afrasiaticus against nine pesticides. Side effects of the nine pesticides were also examined on predatory mite, Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot (Phytoseiidae). Mites and their eggs were treated with the recommended dosage of nine pesticides namely, Bifenazate 24%, Bifenthrin 10%, Matrine 0.6%, Imidacloprid 37% + Abamectin 3%, Sulphur 99.5%, Micronized Sulphur 80%, Mineral oil 95%, Pyrethrin 1.5% and Hexythiazox 10%, while they were present in their natural environment on the date palm trees in the experimental fields. Highest mortality of 91.16% was observed when O. afrasiaticus was treated with Bifenazate (24%) followed by 87.31%, 85.20%, 72.06%, 71.34%, 65.35%, 64.14%, 61.06% and 24.25% in case of Bifenthrin 10%, Matrine 0.6%, Imidacloprid 37% + Abamectin 3%, Sulphur 99.5%, Micronized Sulphur 80%, Mineral oil 95%, Pyrethrin 1.5%, and Hexythiazox 10%, respectively. A minimum hatching of 25.74% was observed when eggs of O. afrasiaticus were treated with Hexythiazox 10% and the highest success of hatching (99.07%) was seen when treatment was given with Imidacloprid 37% + Abamectin 3%. When same trials with same nine pesticides were performed on predatory mite; Amblyseius swirskii, the highest mortality in terms of percentage reduction (75.63%) was observed with Bifenthrin and the lowest (14.69%) with Matrine. Nine pesticides used in this study have distinct toxicity against targeted mite, their eggs and the predatory mite. A two steps control strategy is recommended for this treatment. First spray Hexythiazox at the egg laying stage and then at the moving stage of mites by using Matrine which is toxic to mites but negligibly toxic to predatory mites. Further studies are recommended to evaluate varied actions of the pesticide against eggs, phytophagous mites, and predatory mites.

It has been difficult to control Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn and Spermacocea latifolia Aubl. in cotton and soybean crops due to their herbicide resistance or tolerance to glyphosate. Thus, this study's objective was to evaluate the herbicide efficacy applied in pre-emergence, associated with desiccant herbicide in sequential application, in these species. The experiments for S. latifolia and E. indica were conducted separately in a greenhouse. The experimental design was completely randomized, with 4 replications, in a 6 x 3 factorial. The first factor consisted of pre-emerging herbicides applied two days after the sowing of each species, diclosulam (35 g a.i./ha), s-metolachlor (600 g a.i./ha), pyroxasulfone (200 g a.i./ha) + flumioxazin (200 g a.i./ha), diuron (2000 g a.i./ha), trifluralin (600 g a.i./ha), and the treatment without herbicide. The second factor consisted of the application of diquat (200 g a.i./ha), ammonium glufosinate (400 g a.i./ha), or the absence of sequential application. The results revealed that only for the diclosulam herbicide a sequential application with desiccants was necessary for an effective control of E. indica. The other herbicide applied in pre-emergence showed high efficacy (> 90%) in E. indica control when applied individually. Regarding S. latifolia chemical control, the herbicides s-metolachlor (80.04%), pyroxasulfone + flumioxazin (100%), diclosulam (82.08%) and diuron (89.58%), applied in pre-emergence, presented a satisfactory control at 42 days after emergence. The sequential applications promoted better control of S. latifolia to trifluralin and diuron. In conclusion, there are pre-emergence options for the effective control of E. indica and S. latifolia. However, sequential application can be an important tool for improving the control of some weed species, such as those studied in this work, by certain herbicides.

Industrial hemp is a continuously expanding crop; however, there has been limited research on its herbicide selectivity and weed control. Pendimethalin, s-metolachlor and aclonifen at 1137.5, 960 and 1800 g a.i. ha−1, respectively, were applied in field experiments in 2022 and 2023 in Greece to study the response of industrial hemp to pre-emergence (PRE) herbicides and record their efficacy on weeds. In 2023, each PRE herbicide was followed by the postemergence application of cycloxydim at 200 g a.i. ha−1 due to infestation of Sorghum halepense. In 2022, retardation in hemp growth was recorded by all PRE herbicide treatments, with there being a slight reduction in stand counts by pendimethalin and s-metolachlor and leaf yellowing by aclonifen in one the experiments. In 2023, no reductions in crop establishment and plant height were recorded, whereas leaf discoloration caused by aclonifen was less evident; cycloxydim did not affect hemp and perfectly controlled S. halepense. Despite the herbicide injury, hemp recovered and succeeded in higher biomass in both experiments at Thessaloniki and in higher seed production in the 2023 Thessaloniki experiment. This study showed that pendimethalin, s-metolachlor and aclonifen can be regarded as potential pre-emergence options with precautions in wet and light soils.

This study highlights the growing concern over copper resistance in Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa), a significant pathogen threatening kiwifruit cultivation globally. Copper-based treatments, widely used for their broad-spectrum bactericidal properties, have become less effective over time due to the emergence of copper-resistant strains. This study found that 22 strains of Psa, collected from Greek kiwifruit orchards, exhibited significant copper resistance. All strains were capable of growing in copper concentrations of at least 200 µg/mL (0.8 mM), and two strains (9.1%) survived even at higher concentrations of 400 µg/mL (1.6 mM). Additionally, resistant bacterial colonies were observed in four strains (18.2%), suggesting the presence of resistant subpopulations within the broader bacterial community. In addition to studying copper resistance, the research evaluated the effectiveness of several products in controlling Psa through field experiments. The copper products IONIC CONCENTRATED COPPER, MAGNA BLUE, and COPROFIX ULTRA were tested due to their historical effectiveness in managing bacterial diseases in plants. However, these copper products were unable to fully control Psa in this study, likely due to the observed resistance. In addition, the plant defense activator products MICONIC and NUTRI BIOCLEAN, NUTRI BIOCLEAN, BAR, and BION were evaluated and showed promising results in reducing the intensity of symptoms associated with Psa, suggesting that these formulations may enhance the plant’s natural defenses against the pathogen. While these products did not completely eliminate the disease, they significantly reduced symptom severity. The findings highlight the need for alternative strategies to combat Psa, particularly in areas where copper resistance has developed.

The tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) leafminer, Phthorimaea absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), is an extremely invasive pest and is threatening tomato production worldwide. Several strategies have been developed and implemented for managing P. absoluta. Effective pest control strategies based on integrated pest management (IPM) schemes include different cultural practices and techniques. This study seeks to (a) examine the perspectives, attitudes, and opinions of greenhouse tomato producers in Greece regarding different methods of P. absoluta management and (b) to determine whether the perceived damage caused by P. absoluta could be predicted by the implementation of various control management strategies. A questionnaire was employed to ascertain the views and beliefs of the participants. The questionnaire comprised five-point Likert scale questions. Principal component analysis (PCA) and binary logistic regression analysis were applied to examine the relationship between the reported perceived insect damage and the utilization of control techniques. The study findings indicate that greater adoption of alternative control methods and higher levels of adherence to preventive measures against P. absoluta are associated with a perception of reduced levels of damage. Conversely, individuals with a strong reliance on pesticides use are more likely to perceive a higher level of damage. Ultimately, as tomato growers are trying to deal with P. absoluta, more education and research on other alternatives could help the reduction of chemical use, promoting more environmentally friendly practices. The findings highlight integrated pest management over pesticides for sustainable tomato production. This can guide future research and extension efforts to develop tailored P. absoluta management approaches for Greek greenhouse growers and similar environments.

Herbicides are essential tools for the phytosanitary security of agricultural areas, but their excessive use can cause problems in agricultural production systems and have negative impacts on human health and the environment. The objective of this study was to present and discuss the main causes behind the increase in herbicide commercialization in Brazil between 2010 and 2020. Data from the Brazilian pesticide database, provided by the Instituto Brasileiro do Meio Ambiente e dos Recursos Naturais Renováveis (IBAMA), were used. In 2010 and 2020, Brazil sold 157,512 and 329,697 tons of herbicide active ingredients, respectively, representing a 128.1% increase in commercialization over 11 years. Some herbicides, such as clethodim, haloxyfop-methyl, triclopyr, glufosinate, 2,4-D, diclosulam, and flumioxazin, showed increases in sales volumes between 2010 and 2020 of 2672.8%, 896.9%, 953.5%, 290.2%, 233.8%, 561.3%, and 531.6%, respectively, percentages far exceeding the expansion of Brazil’s agricultural area. The primary reason for this sharp increase in herbicide sales was the worsening cases of weeds resistant and tolerant to glyphosate, with species such as Conyza spp., Amaranthus spp., Digitaria insularis, and Eleusine indica standing out. This situation created the necessity of the use of additional herbicides to achieve effective chemical control of these weed species.

Objective: The red palm weevil (RPW), is one of the most threatening pests of date palm trees worldwide, causing significant economic losses annually for date palm growers, both globally and in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia. The primary objective of this research was to assess the insecticide market in Saudi Arabia, test various insecticides claimed to be effective against RPW, and evaluate their efficacy in laboratory settings. This evaluation aims to inform further trials under field conditions. Methods: Six insecticides, including imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, fipronil, emamectin benzoate, deltamethrin, and fenitrothion, were tested to assess their toxicity against red palm weevil 8th instar larvae by diet incorporation under laboratory conditions. The insecticides were applied according to the manufacturer’s recommendations with dosages of 1000 µl, 0.20 µl, 7.5 µl, 0.25 µl, 0.25 µl, and 0.5 µl for imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, fipronil, emamectin benzoate, deltamethrin, and fenitrothion, respectively. Results: The results revealed that all tested insecticides exhibited 100 % mortality against 8th instar RPW larvae, with the exception of deltamethrin. However, the time required to achieve this mortality varied. Fenitrothion caused 100 % mortality after 72 h, while thiamethoxam, imidacloprid, and fipronil caused 100 % mortality after 96 h. Emamectin benzoate and deltamethrin resulted in 100 % and 93 % mortality, respectively, after 10 days. The variability in mortality rates may be attributed to differences in their active ingredients, which show varying levels of lethality. In conclusion, all tested insecticides showed effectiveness against RPW larvae and represent viable options for controlling this pest in date palm orchards in Saudi Arabia.

Myxomycetes (plasmodial slime molds) are eukaryotic protist predators that are associated with wood, leaf litter, and soil in forests, where they feed on bacteria, protozoans, and (to a more limited extent) fungi. The health of crop plants is essential because they represent a primary food source for humans. However, when myxomycetes produce numerous fruiting bodies on the stems and leaves of crop plants, which is herein referred to as a myxomycete colonization, this has the potential of interfering with plant photosynthesis, transpiration and respiration by blocking out light and covering stomata. Myxomycetes are not pathogens, but their occurrence on plants can be mistakenly interpreted as some type of infection. However, this phenomenon has been largely ignored. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the taxonomic and economic diversity of the organisms involved in myxomycete colonization. In addition, the various types of myxomycete colonization reported in the literature are described and discussed, a number of images provided, and cultural and chemical prevention and control measures are summarized. The latter should be of significant relevance for local production of crops and plant protective stations. While myxomycetes are not pathogens of crop plants, some species can seriously impact commercially grown mushrooms. Reports of myxomycetes affecting mushrooms are also described in this paper.

Potato farming is a vital component of food security and the economic stability especially in the under developing countries but it faces many challenges in production, blackleg disease caused by Pectobacterium atrosepticum (Pa) is one of the main reason for damaging crop yield of the potato. Effective management strategies are essential to control these losses and to get sustainable potato crop yield. This study was focused on characterizing the Pa and the investigating new chemical options for its management. The research was involved a systematic survey across the three district of Punjab, Pakistan (Khanewal, Okara, and Multan) to collect samples exhibiting the black leg symptoms. These samples were analyzed in the laboratory where gram-negative bacteria were isolated and identified through biochemical and pathogenicity tests for Pa. DNA sequencing further confirmed these isolates of Pa strains. Six different chemicals were tested to control blackleg problem in both vitro and vivo at different concentrations. In vitro experiment, Cordate demonstrated the highest efficacy with a maximum inhibition zones of 17.139 mm, followed by Air One (13.778 mm), Profiler (10.167 mm), Blue Copper (7.7778 mm), Spot Fix (7.6689 mm), and Strider (7.0667 mm). In vivo, Cordate maintained its effectiveness with the lowest disease incidence of 14.76%, followed by Blue Copper (17.49%), Air One (16.98%), Spot Fix (20.67%), Profiler (21.45%), Strider (24.99%), and the control group (43.00%). The results highlight Cordate’s potential as a most effective chemical against Pa, offering promising role for managing blackleg disease in potato and to improve overall productivity.

Asian soybean rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi) is one of the main diseases in soybean crops. In Mexico, there is limited knowledge regarding its management, therefore the objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of mixtures of fungicides of the families: Carboxamides, Strobilurins, and Triazoles on incidence, severity, fungicide efficiency, and yield in soybean variety ‘Huasteca 700’. Three commercial combinations of fungicides were evaluated: Tebuconazole + Trifloxystrobin, Fluxapyroxad + Pyraclostrobin, Cyproconazole + Azoxystrobin, with surfactant (Agrega®) at 0.1%, and a control which consisted only of surfactant. The highest incidence and severity occurred in the control treatment; fungicide application formulated with Strobilurins, and Triazoles significantly reduced incidence (54 to 98%) and severity (82 to 100%) and provided a crop protection period of 35 to 54 days post-application. The incidence and severity by stratum plant were lower in the second evaluation cycle, with respect the first evaluation. Damage remained below 1.24, 0.5, and 0.03% in the low, middle, and upper stratum, respectively in treatments treated with fungicides 56 days after the first application. With two applications of chemical fungicides formulated with Strobilurins and Triazoles, in a natural infestation of Asian soybean rust, the damage and incidence were significantly reduced compared to the control treatment.

Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) released two beautiful Lilium varieties in 2020. In the same year the farmers in Gazipur district reported a set of disease symptoms on these flowers and alerted the Plant Pathology Division of BARI. Subsequent investigation confirmed the symptoms as Botrytis gray mold (BGM), caused by Botrytis cinerea. The pathogen identity was confirmed through ITS gene sequencing. A series of in vitro and in planta experiments conducted to understand the symptoms, the optimal growth condition for the pathogen, potential resistant Lilium genotypes, effective chemical treatments and potential of biological control agents to combat the disease. B. cinerea exhibited the highest growth in V8 media (88.55 mm) at pH6 (85.32 mm) and temperature between 20 and 25 °C (89.56 mm), and pH6 (85.32 mm). Screening revealed that five oriental-originated genotypes provided lower disease incidence (31.66–41.66 %), and were categorized as moderately resistant to resistant in disease reaction. Six fungicides successfully reduced mycelial growth in vitro. Moreover, Ipridione provided the lowest % disease incidence (27.11) and % disease severity (5.33) in the in planta nethouse experiment. Therefore, this fungicide was recommended to the farmers initially. Additionally, two fungal biocontrol agents Epicoccum nigrum EJS002 and Trichoderma ThC003, demonstrated effectiveness in reducing leaf lesion size over control in a detach leaf assessment technique. In conclusion, this study presents BGM of Lilium as a farmers issue for the first time in Bangladesh. It also provides valuable insights into its management, recommending specific chemical fungicides for farmers to use, and two fungal antagonists (E. nigrum EJS002 and Trichoderma ThC003) as potential disease control agent.

In order to investigation the effect of the application of single and mixing of propyzamide and ethofumesate herbicides in the control of dodder, grass and broad leaves weeds of sugar beet, three experiment carried out at the greenhouse of sugar beet seed breeding research institute in 2017. The experiments were performed in a completely randomized design with 30, 10 and 9 treatments and four replications, respectively. Result showed that the effect of mixing different doses of Propyzamide and Ethofumesate herbicides and species of different area dodder on all studied traits in the present study was significant 1%. In general, the percentage of final germination (82.7%), daily germination rate (0.18 days) and the percentage of connection of Ardabil dodder to the host plan (82.7%) were higher than Alborz and Qom species. The highest percentage of weed conection of the dodder to the sugar beet was observed in the treat that cultivation distance of 5 cm. Application of Propisamide 2.5 L.ha-1 and Propisamide 1.5 L.ha-1 + Ethofumesate 1 L.ha-1 in connecting the dodder to the host, compared to Ethofumesate could control of dodder weeds (100%) and reduction of fresh and dry weights, density and chlorophyll of thin and broad leaveas weed and increased leaf chlorophyll and yield of sugar beet in green house condition. Therefore, the application of these treatments can be used in the control of parasitic, thin and broad leaves weed of sugar beet and application Propisamide 1.5 L.ha-1 + Ethofumesate 1 L.ha-1 in connecting the dodder to the host, can be considered in addition to the mentioned effects and in reducing the environmental effects of the use of chemical herbicides.

In groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.), less crop canopy during the first weeks of growth favors strong competition with weeds causing significant reduction in yield. To investigate the efficacy of the pre- and post- emergence herbicides in groundnut yield and weed control, this experiment was carried out in Gilan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center in 2017. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments consisted Pendimethalin (33% EC), Oxyfluorfen (24% EC), Bentazon (48% SL) plus Haloxy fop R methyl ester (10.8% EC), Imazethapyr (10% SL), Trifluralin (48% EC), twice hand hoeing and rice straw mulch + hand weeding. To compare the treatments, EWRC rating scale for visual control and weed number and biomass reduction percentage in each treatment compared to control were applied. Also, the percentage increase of economic (seed) yield of groundnut in each treatment in comparison with control were assessed to evaluate the treatments. The result showed that the highest yield increases of peanut occurred in treatments of Bentazon at dosage of 2 L.ha-1 plus Haloxy fop R methyl ester at dosage of 0.75 L.ha-1 as post-emergence application at 2-5 leaf stage of weeds and twice hand hoeing at times of 3 and 6 weeks after planting with 188.6 and 177.7 % increase of yield compared to weedy control, respectively. In these two treatments the weed control of grass weeds (Echinochloa crus-galli L. and Setaria glauca L.) was 81.5 and 100% respectively, broad leaved weed control (Physalis divaricate D. Don and Amaranthus retroflexus L.) was 84.7 and 93.1 % respectively and sedge (Cyperus esculentus L.) control was 70.2 and 90.4 % respectively compared to control.

Abstract Background Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), the fall armyworm (FAW), has recently invaded Egypt and poses serious threats to maize farmers as it causes huge economic costs and yield losses. Selection of efficient insecticides and appropriate methods of application can be a problem to control this pest. Methods Two-year field studies to effectiveness of whorl application (sand mixed or spray) of seven insecticides comprising new insecticides generations with conventional insecticides from different groups at maximum recommended dosage field rate against FAW on yield of maize was evaluated in maize fields at El-Qualubia Governorate, Egypt. Results In plots treated with insecticide mixed in sand, all tested insecticides recorded a significant decrease in FAW larvae with significantly higher yields than those treated with spraying or untreated plots. However, among tested insecticides in both applications, chlorantraniliprole was found to be the most effective followed by emamectin benzoate and spinosad and these insecticides gave better control FAW with higher yield than conventional insecticides tested. In this context, the highest decrease in FAW density was recorded in plots treated with chlorantraniliprole mixed in sand or sprayed (93.69% for 2021; 91.59% for 2022) and (84.74% for 2021; 85.78% for 2022), respectively, as well as a significantly high yield. However, lambda-cyhalothrin recorded the highest density of FAW (33.86% for 2021; 32.72% for 2022) in the treated plots with spraying with lowest significant yield during the 2021 and 2022 seasons in the treated plots with spraying by 8.98 and 8.00%, respectively, increase over control plots. Conclusions These results indicate that insecticides mixed in sand application are more efficacious against FAW larvae along with yield increase than spraying.

ABSTRACTWe analysed the timing of pesticide treatments for eventual analysis of temporal environmental risks associated with pesticide use in field vegetable crops. At the same time, we investigated whether farmers followed the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) instructions. The data cover chemical plant protection in field vegetable farms in southwestern Finland in 2009–2019. The timing of treatments, made with different pesticides in the weeks following sowing, corresponded with the known phenology of different pests of carrot, swede and fresh pea. The same was true for the carrot fly, the pea moth and the second generation of the cabbage root fly when phenological flight time models using historical data were used to predict the timing of treatments. We conclude that farmers acted in accordance with the principles of IPM when practising chemical control. For those species that lacked phenological predictive models in the study years, the degree days for the observed timing of treatments can be used as a starting point if such models are developed in the future. Our results can be used as a long-term baseline in future surveys on the changes in pesticide use and their risks regarding the studied crops.

Chemical control methods to prevent crop damage have long been directly implicated in the selection of lepidoptera insect populations resistant to insecticides. More recently, new products featuring different modes of action (MoA), developed to mitigate the negative effects of control management on both producers and the environment, are rapidly losing efficacy due to the emergence of resistant insects. Among these, certain resistances are associated with molecular changes in the genomes of pest insects that are valuable for developing molecular markers for diagnostic tools, particularly the point mutations. Molecular diagnosis represents an innovative solution for insecticide resistance management (IRM) practices, allowing for the effective monitoring of insecticide resistance. This approach facilitates decision making by enabling the timely alternation between different modes of action (MoAs). In this context, this review focuses on the major lepidopteran pests that affect globally significant crops, discussing the impacts of insecticide resistance. It gathers literature on diagnostic methods; provides a comparative overview of the advantages of different techniques in terms of efficiency, cost, precision, sensitivity, and applicability; and highlights several novel diagnostic tools. Additionally, this review explores the coffee leaf miner, Leucoptera coffeella, as an applied model to illustrate potential approaches for more effective and sustainable control strategies.

Dicamba is a post-herbicide, showing some activity in soil, and its dynamics can be influenced by several factors, including the presence of straw. Brazil has more than 50% of its production area in a no-till system; thus, a good amount of the herbicide is intercepted by the straw. This study aimed to evaluate dicamba dynamics in straw and weed control efficacy when sprayed as a PRE herbicide. For this, five different studies were conducted: we utilized different straw amounts (1) and different drought periods (2) for straw sprayed with dicamba and dicamba + glyphosate to evaluate its release from straw, different straw amounts (3), different drought periods (4), and wet and dry straw (5) to evaluate pre-emergence weed control (Bidens pilosa and Ipomoea grandifolia) and dicamba availability in medium-texture soil. Around 80% of dicamba was released from the straw after 100 mm of rainfall. One day after dicamba application, 65–70% of dicamba was released from the straw with 20 mm of rainfall, while for 7 and 14 DAA, 60% was released. Dicamba was efficient in controlling the pre-emergence of both species studied, and the amount of straw did not interfere in weed control; however, dicamba was less available in the soil after rainfall when sprayed in the straw than when sprayed directly in the soil. Up to 80% of dicamba can be released from the straw after 100 mm of rainfall and weed control was efficient for the species studied; however, the carryover effect in sensitive crops might become an issue.

Kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis) cultivation is expanding worldwide, with China, New Zealand, and Italy being the major producing countries. Halyomorpha halys, the brown marmorated stink bug, is raising serious concerns to kiwifruit cultivation both in China and Italy. This study aimed at improving the chemical control efficacy against this pest by comparing two insecticide spray techniques (a conventional ray atomizer and a trumpet-modified atomizer adapted for localized spray application) in kiwifruit. In fact, kiwifruit is often grown with a ‘pergola’ training system, which may reduce the effectiveness of insecticide penetration into the canopy. Experiments were performed in naturally infested orchards of both Actinidia chinensis var. chinensis ‘Jintao’ and A. chinensis var. deliciosa ‘Hayward’. Furthermore, mesh cages containing H. halys adults were deployed within orchards to assess the insects’ mortality at 1, 3, 7, and 10 days after an insecticide application with two spray techniques during two consecutive seasons. In the cultivar ‘Jintao’, the two systems performed similarly, while in the cultivar ‘Hayward’, an overall significantly higher insect mortality was recorded with the trumpet atomizer (94–100%) compared to the conventional atomizer (59–78%). Crop damage was also evaluated on both cultivars, simulating the grower insecticide applications with the two spray techniques. At harvest, no difference emerged between the spray techniques, which provided a significantly better protection compared to the untreated control (12–17% compared to 33–47% of injured fruits). Further investigations in this direction are needed also considering the restriction of insecticidal active substances ongoing in the European Union and the need to maximize the efficacy of the available tools.

Due to the long-term use of some chemical insecticides to control rice striped stem borer, Chilo suppressalis in rice fields in the north of Iran and in order to prevent the development of stem borer resistance to them, it is necessary to use new insecticides such as thiocyclam hydrogen oxalate granules 4% (Vibrant®) to control this pest. Experimental treatments in this research include, 1- (VibrantR) granule insecticide 4% at the rate of 10 kg/ha. 2- (VibrantR) granule insecticide at the rate of 12.5 kg/ha. 3- (VibrantR) granule insecticide 4% at the rate of 15 Kg/ha. 4- Diazinon granule insecticide 10% at the rate of 15 kg/ha. 5- Fipronil granule insecticide 0.2% at the rate of 20 kg/ha. 6- Control (only watering). The present study was conducted in the form of randomized complete block design with 3 replications. The following characteristics including: the percentage of dead hearts in the first generation, the percentage of white heads in the second generation, the percentage of insecticide efficiency, the population of larvae and the yield of rice were evaluated. The results of this research showed that among the tested insecticides, (Vibrant®) insecticide in amounts of 12.5 and 15 kg per hectare has significant advantage in controlling the rice stem bore for the first and second generations of the pest, respectively. Also, the results of this study showed that the least contamination of dead hearts (5.22%), white heads (2.33%), the highest larval mortality (86.01%) and the highest yield (4020.83 kg/ha.) was observed in the treatment Vibrant 4% in the amount of 15 kg/ha. Therefore, the findings of the present study indicate that the new thiocyclam hydrogen oxalate insecticide has a good potential in controlling rice striped stem borer and can be used for integrated management of stem borer in paddy field ecosystems.

Two biofungicides, Coniothyrium minitans and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, are commercially available and have been shown to limit or suppress Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in soybean. S. sclerotiorum is a soilborne pathogen of soybean that can cause significant yield losses under cool and wet environmental conditions. Integrated soybean pest management practices can include the application of herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides at various times during the growing season to minimize yield losses. However, limited information is available regarding how these biofungicides can be successfully incorporated into a soybean-integrated pest management program. To assess the sensitivity of C. minitans and B. amyloliquefaciens biological activity on S. sclerotiorum to pesticides commonly used in soybean-production systems, a poison plate assay and soil plate and growth chamber experiments were conducted. In the poison plate assay, C. minitans was most sensitive to the preemergence herbicide flumioxazin and the synthetic fungicides boscalid and fluazinam, whereas B. amyloliquefaciens was sensitive only to the synthetic fungicide fluazinam. In the soil plate assay, the mycoparasitic activity of C. minitans on S. sclerotiorum was sensitive to flumioxazin, metribuzin, glyphosate, picoxystrobin, and boscalid. In the controlled environment experiments, none of the pesticides tested decreased the efficacy of B. amyloliquefaciens. [Figure: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license.

Relevance. Among the factors of increasing the productivity and quality of cultivated plants, the correct organization and timely implementation of the fight against harmful organisms is of great importance. At the same time, a special place is occupied by quarantine measures. No less important is the timely detection and destruction of quarantine organisms, their localization and elimination in isolated centers of infection.Methods. The methods for registration testing of pesticides in terms of biological effectiveness (VIZR) and of studying the bioecological features of the tomato leaf miner, adopted by the Scientific Council of the National Institute of Plant Protection and Technical Cultures of the Republic of Azerbaijan, was applied.Results. In the conditions of the South Caucasus in the Republic of Azerbaijan, the biology of the tomato leaf miner, the degree of development, the prevalence and the harmfulness of the insect pest have been studied in detail for the first time. The reasons for the rapid spread of the pest are indicated, the conditions are favorable to it. Listed agrotechnical measures that reduce the population of the pest and measures of biological and chemical control. Employees of the Institute of plant protection and technical crops and the Azerbaijan State Agrarian University have developed a set of measures for monitoring, prevention and pest control, thanks to which it is possible to control the number of pests.

Demethylase inhibitors (DMIs) targeting CYP51 proteins in fungi are often used for plant disease management. Trichoderma harzianum, a widely used biocontrol agent, however, is sensitive to DMIs. This negates their combined use as a strategy in practices. Increasing the tolerance of T. harzianum to DMIs represents a feasible solution to this problem. In this regard, the overexpression of a CYP51B variant in Mycosphaerella graminicola (MgCYP51B-v) conveys increased tolerance to DMIs. Molecular docking indicated a distinct decrease in the affinity of MgCYP51B-v with DMIs. Since CYP51B proteins are conserved in M. graminicola and T. harzianum, we attempted to increase DMI tolerance in T. harzianum by heterologously expressing MgCYP51B-v. A series of T. harzianum mutants were obtained that were able to develop colonies on tebuconazole-amended medium. Two representative mutants were selected for further studies that confirmed that they were resistant to tebuconazole with resistance factors (RFs) of approximately 10.0. The mutants maintained a similar level of resistance after ten rounds of subculture without fungicide, indicating that the fungicide resistance was stably inherited. The mutants also exhibited increased tolerance to other DMIs, including metconazole, ipconazole, hexaconazole, and prochloraz. Further assessment indicated that the DMI resistance in the mutants did not have any impact on their fitness. The improved compatibility between T. harzianum and DMIs enables the utilization of a combined strategy in which these disease control agents are used together. Such a strategy has the potential to provide synergistic disease control and prevent or delay the development of fungicide resistance.

AbstractOnion (Allium cepa L.) is an economically important vegetable crop worldwide. However, various fungal diseases, including Fusarium basal rot (FBR), neck rot, and white rot, reduce onion production or bulb storage life. FBR caused by Fusarium species is among the most destructive onion diseases. In this study, we identified Fusarium species associated with FBR in Jeolla and Gyeongsang Provinces in South Korea and evaluated fungicides against the pathogens. Our morphological and molecular analyses showed that FBR in onions is associated with Fusarium commune, Fusarium oxysporum, and Fusarium proliferatum. We selected seven fungicides (fludioxonil, hexaconazole, mandestrobin, penthiopyrad, prochloraz-manganese, pydiflumetofen, and tebuconazole) and evaluated their inhibitory effects on mycelial growth of the pathogens at three different concentrations (0.01, 0.1, and 1 mg/mL). We found that prochloraz-manganese was highly effective, inhibiting 100% of the mycelial growth of the pathogens at all concentrations, followed by tebuconazole. Fludioxonil showed < 50% inhibition at 1 mg/mL for the tested isolates.

The implementation of chemical control in closed facilities is the most difficult task of the mobile diagnostic groups (MDG) of the NBC Protection Troops of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, designed to perform radiation, chemical and biological control at mass events at national and international levels. Built with the use of modern construction and finish materials, they have their own sources of indoor air pollution. In certain cases, the use of polymer and polymer-containing materials in the construction and decoration of such objects leads to the appearance of contamination zones inside these premises with a high concentration of chemical impurities and their transformation products, which poses a threat to human health and affects the reliability of the results of chemical control. The last factor poses the greatest danger, since, leading to an inadequate reaction of the chemical control equipment, it can mask the appearance of poisonous and / or hazardous substances in the air, nullifying the entire complex of measures to ensure chemical safety. The aim of the article is to analyze structural, building and finish materials used in the construction and decoration of facilities that are systematically examined by MDG for the detection of toxic volatile compounds. It is shown in the article, that in the presence of sources of volatile substances, including toxic ones, which can distort the results of chemical control at the surveyed objects, it is necessary to improve the equipment and methodological support of mobile diagnostic groups.

Beekeepers need new treatment options for controlling small hive beetles (Aethina tumida), a devastating honey bee (Apis mellifera) pest. For many years, commercial beekeepers in the U.S. have used gel roach baits off-label as a method for treating SHBs. Herein, we evaluated the acute toxicity of active ingredients commonly found in gel roach baits, including abamectin, clothianidin, hydramethylnon, fipronil, and indoxacarb through topical and oral routes of exposure against SHBs and honey bees. Additionally, coumaphos, the active ingredient of the only registered in-hive control treatment for SHBs, was evaluated to provide a comparison to the gel roach bait active ingredients. Fipronil was the most toxic compound to SHBs topically (LD50 = 0.23 ng/SHB) and through pollen (LC50 = 0.06 µg/g pollen). Fipronil (LD50 = 0.31 ng/honey bee) had a selectivity ratio of 1.3, suggesting that it is more toxic to SHBs than it is to honey bees, but only to a small degree. Abamectin, clothianidin, hydramethylnon, and indoxacarb had a higher toxicity to honey bees than to SHBs through topical exposure. Our results suggest that gel roach baits and their active ingredients are toxic to honey bees and pose a serious risk to colony safety if used as in-hive treatments.

An experiment was conducted to study the bioefficacy of six different insecticides (thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 0.01%, thiacloprid 21.7 SC @ 0.0032%, buprofezin 25EC @ 0.05%, spinosad 48 SC @ 0.017%, chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.007% and fenpropathrin 30 EC @ 0.01%) with a control (water spray) against sucking pests, viz., shoot and fruit borers, jassids, whiteflies and aphids, and harvest time residues in brinjal (Surti Ravaiya) at the College Farm, North Asian University, and Navsari during summer-2020. Among the different insecticides evaluated, chlorantraniliprole and spinosad were the most effective, fenpropathrin and buprofezin were the least effective insecticides against shoot and fruit borers, respectively. Thiamethoxam and thiacloprid were the most effective agents. Fenpropathrin and buprofezin were the least effective against whiteflies, jassids and aphids. After two hours of spray, the initial deposition order of the experimental insecticides was buprofezin (10.382 mg/kg) > fenpropathrin (5.602 mg/kg) > chlorantraniliprole (5.097 mg/kg) > thiamethoxam (4.886 mg/kg) > spinosad (3.984 mg/kg) > thiacloprid (3.332 mg/kg), while after 4 days of spray, the residue status of the brinjal fruit was in the order of fenpropathrin (0.539 mg/kg) > chlorantraniliprole (0.154 mg/kg) > thiacloprid (0.127 mg/kg) > thiamethoxam (0.099 mg/kg) > buprofezin (0.076 mg/kg) > spinosad (BDL). Overall, the highest percentage degradation of insecticide residues in brinjal fruits was registered with spinosad (100%), followed by buprofezin (99.26%), thiamethoxam (97.97%), chlorantraniliprole (96.97%), thiacloprid (96.18%) and fenpropathrin (90.37%) after 4 days of II spray.

Pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L., 1753) is one of the widely distributed oak species in Europe. A large number of organisms develop on its leaves. To determine the extent to which the oak powdery mildew, oak lace bug, and other foliofagous insects affect the growth of young oak trees, three experimental fields were selected in a 10-year-old pedunculate oak stand. In each of them, 50 trees were randomly selected, and their height was measured at the beginning of the vegetative season. The first experimental field was treated with a systemic insecticide, the second with a systemic fungicide, and the third, a comparison area, with water, during the entire vegetative season. At the end of the vegetative season, 25 plants with one apical branch were selected in each experimental field. Their height was measured, and 20 leaves were taken from each plant to determine the extent of the damage on them at the end of the experiment. After processing the obtained data, it was determined that: 1. Both foliofagous insects and oak leaf inhabiting fungi affect the growth of the oak trees significantly; 2. The oak lace bug did not influence the growth of the young trees significantly, as its abundance was low in all of the experimental areas; 3. The greatest damage on the leaves was caused by defoliator insects, which is why they contributed the most to the decrease in growth caused by insects; 4. The influence of the foliofagous insects on the growth of the trees was not significantly different from the influence of fungi; 5. Suppression of oak powdery mildew and foliofagous insects on young trees is useful as it positively influences the vitality and growth of those trees, and contributes to economic and ecological gain.

Abstract Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann, 1824) is an insect of major economic importance in the mango orchards of the submedium of the São Francisco River Valley, the main area of mango production and exportation in Brazil. To provide alternatives for the management of C. capitata, toxic baits based on alpha-cypermethrin (Gelsura®) and spinosad (Success® 0.02 CB) were evaluated in three commercial mango experiments during two consecutive harvests: 2016/2017 (experiment 1 - area 1) and 2017/2018 (experiment 2 -area 2 and experiment 3 - area 3). According to the results, there was a large reduction in the infestation of C. capitata after five sequential applications of the alpha-cypermethrin (6 g.ha-1) and spinosad (0.38 g.ha-1) toxic baits performed at seven-day intervals during mango fruit ripening in all experiments and years (harvest) evaluated. Compared with the untreated plots, the plots with alpha-cypermethrin and spinosad applications showed a significant reduction in the damage induced (fallen fruits and/or on trees) by C. capitata. The management of C. capitata in mango orchards can include the use of the toxic bait based on alpha-cypermethrin, which represents an alternative to rotate with spinosad toxic bait in the São Francisco River Valley.

The presence of weeds in the sunflower crop is one of the main factors linked to the low increase in productivity of this crop, and to determine the most appropriate management of weeds, it is essential to carry out a diagnosis through the phytosociological survey. The objective of this study was to assess the influence of chemical control on the phytosociological community of weeds in three areas cultivated with sunflower in the Parecis region (Brazil). The areas were treated with 2,4-D + glyphosate for desiccation; S-metolachlor was used for pre-emergence control in the three areas; meanwhile, sulfentrazone and flumioxazin were applied only in one area; and, finally, clethodim was applied for post-emergence weed management. Sampling was carried out at two different times, in the initial and pre-harvest stages (at 35 and 100 days after the emergence of the crop, respectively), using a quadrate, in which weeds were identified and quantified to determine the frequency, relative frequency, density, relative density, abundance, relative abundance, importance index, and similarity index between areas and times. Seventeen weed species were found in the sunflower crop (70.6% dicot and 29.4% monocotyledonous) in the two seasons, grouped into nine botanical families, with Poaceae being the most diverse family. The dicots Tridax procumbens and Acanthospermum hispidium were present in low frequency only in the initial stages of development of the sunflower crop. The weeds with the highest importance index values in the initial and pre-harvest stages were Euphorbia hirta (104 and 91%) and Bidens pilosa (45 and 66%, respectively), both belonging to the dicots group. These two species were present in the two evaluated periods and in the three experimental areas, demonstrating that there was a similarity index between them with values above 93%. These results of the phytosociological study may contribute to determining more efficient management strategies for weed chemical control in the sunflower crop.

The sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is an oleaginous plant that shows high suitability for cultivation in Brazil. However, the performance of the crop is influenced by factors such as weed interference, mainly because of the few selective herbicide options. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate weed control and selectivity of four pre-emergent herbicides applied to two sunflower cultivars in sandy and clayey soils. Two field experiments were conducted in a randomized block design with a 2 × 6 factorial scheme, two cultivars (CF 101 and M 734) and six treatments with S-metolachlor (1920 g a.i. ha−1), sulfentrazone (150 g a.i. ha−1), flumioxazin (40 g a.i. ha−1), and trifluralin (1780 g a.i. ha−1) and two controls, one with weeding and the other without weeding and without herbicide application, in soils with contrasting textures (sandy and clayey). No injury symptoms were observed in both cultivars, regardless of soil texture. The cultivar M 734 exhibited the highest values of the agronomic parameters evaluated. The treatment with flumioxazin provided control of more than 90% of the weeds in clayey soil and more than 64% in sandy soil. The yield of both cultivars was lower in the sandy soil. Thus, all herbicide treatments were selective for both cultivars tested, since they did not interfere with sunflower grain yield.

In order to investigate the effect of pre-emergence and post-emergence herbicides on nutrient depletion, weed population and nutrient uptake by wheat in sesame-wheat cropping system in Khuzestan a field experiment was conducted in randomized complete block design with three replications in the research farm of Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz in 2019-2020. Treatments included no weeding, hand weeding, Pendimethalin+Atlantis, Pendimethalin+Metribosin, Trifluralin+Atlantis, Trifluralin+Metribozin, Pendimethalin+2,4-D, Trifluralin+2,4-D, green mungbean+2,4-D and 2,4-D in plots seeded by wheat cv. ‘Mehregan’. Weed population varied notably among the experimental treatments. At 60 days after sowing, while the mean number of weeds was 5.6 plants per m-2, it was significantly different among the weed control treatments. Moreover in this growth stage, Pendimethalin+Atlantis and Pendimethalin+Metribuzin treatments significantly reduced the weed population compared to the control no weeding condition. Generally, hand weeding and Pendimethalin+Atlantis treatments improved the growth and yield of wheat compared to Trifluralin+Atlantis, Trifluralin+Metribosin, and Trifluralin+2,4-D treatments, due apparently to reducing weed interference and increasing the uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium of the wheat plants. We concluded that the pre-emergence application of Pendimethalin herbicide along with post-emergence application of Metribozin and Atlantis herbicides at the seedling stage of wheat may increase the absorption of nutrients and grain yield.

Sunflower is the most important oil crop in the Republic of Croatia. In the last two decades, it has been grown on average on 33,506 ha with a average grain yield of 2.66 t/ha. Weeds represent one of the most important causes of biotic stress, and their action is reflected in the competition for nutrients, water, light and space. The weed flora in sunflower crops in Croatia is extremely diverse, and we will most often meet: Polygonum persicaria L., Polygonum lapathifolium L., Ambrosia artemisiifolia L., Chenopodium polyspermum L., Amaranthus retroflexus L., Solanum nigrum L. emend Miller, Abutilon theophrasti Medik, Datura stramonium L., Xanthium strumarium L., Convolvulus arvensis L., Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop., Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) Pb., Setaria glauca (L.) Pb., Setaria viridis (L.) Pb., Digitaria sanguinalis (L.) Scop., Panicum spp. and Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers. For many years, weed control was based on the intensive use of chemical preparations, which were most often used after sowing and before emergence, in double or triple combinations. In addition to a number of advantages of using chemicals in sunflower production, the problem of broadleaf weeds was not satisfactorily solved until the advent of Clearfield, Clearfield plus and Express sun technology, i.e. hybrids tolerant to herbicides from the group of imidazolinone (imazamox) and sulfonyl-urea (tribenuron-methyl) at the beginning of this century. Integrated plant protection, including integrated weed management, with its holistic approach and greater application of direct and indirect non-chemical measures, is only environmental quality solution for controlling weeds in sunflowers.

The diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus, 1758) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), is a severe and most destructive pest of cruciferous vegetables in many parts of the world, including Nepal. The natural history and ecology of the diamondback moth are summarized here, along with appropriate management options. Caterpillar is the most devastating stage of DBM that matures and causes “windowing” damage, leaving only the epidermis. Biological control, cultural practices, effective chemical control, botanical pesticides, and host plant resistance are the most viable options. Insecticide abuse and resistance concerns are likely to persist, as numerous research-based outcomes have proven that none of these measures will suffice independently. However, these techniques can complement each other and result in a better long-term management system when combined. This review highlights the integrated eco-friendly management strategies for DBM and other cruciferous insect pests. Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which focuses on sustainable production, has shown promising results. Modern management techniques include genetic modification, use of parasitoids, modified cultural methods, the precautionary application of chemicals, resistant cultivars, fungal, bacterial (Bt. based biopesticides), and viral entomopathogens, etc., which are found to be more effective and eco-friendlier.

ABSTRACT: In order to study alternative ways of control of Dermatobia hominis fly larvae, three processes were tested: T1, cypermethrin 5% + chlorpyrifos 7% + citronellal 0.5% (Pour on); T2, trichlorfon powder dissolved at 2% in burnt oil passed on the nodules; T3, manual larva extraction. The study was conducted at Instituto de Zootecnia in Nova Odessa, São Paulo State, Brazil. In a dairy herd of 176 animals, 29 with at least one larvae were found, distributed in the three treatments. Each treatment’s efficacy percentage was based on the number of live botflies present after 14 days. The animals were observed on days +4, +7, +14 and +21, and new botflies and abscesses were annotated. All treatments presented high effectiveness (above 98%). New botflies were already seen in the first week after applying the three treatments, and on day 21, two abscesses in each chemical treatment were observed. Larva extraction was 100% effective, with no originating abscesses, and should be encouraged in small and medium-sized properties and those with resistant botflies to chemical products.

As an invasive species, Spartina alterniflora has caused serious harm to many coastal wetland ecosystems, and its prevention and control have become the top priority of coastal wetland protection. To explore the difference in the control effects of different herbicides on S. alterniflora and optimize the chemical control technology, four experiments were carried out in this study, namely, different herbicides, different doses, different dilution ratios, and mowing + herbicide. The results showed that (1) 75 days after the application of herbicide, the control effects of high doses of glyphosate (8.0 kg ha−1), cyhalofop-butyl (0.8 kg ha−1) or imazameth (0.4 kg ha−1) were only 25%-38%, and the control effects of lower doses were worse; (2) Haloxyfop-R-methyl could permanently kill S. alterniflora. Applying 0.30 kg ha−1 and 0.45 kg ha−1 of haloxyfop-R-methyl in June, the control efficacy was >95% in the first year and 84%–99% in the third year. In addition, there was no significant difference in weed control effect when the same dose of Haloxyfop-R-methyl was sprayed twice on June 8 and July 28 or once on June 8; (3) The mixed application of two of the four herbicides, namely, glyphosate, cyhalofop-butyl, imazameth and Haloxyfop-R-methyl, did not improve the control effect on S. alterniflora; (4) When the herbicide stock solution was diluted 58–461 times with water, Haloxyfop-R-methyl had a very good control effect on S. alterniflora; (5) Spraying Haloxyfop-R-methyl immediately after mowing could not effectively control S. alterniflora, and the regeneration of S. alterniflora was serious in the second year; and (6) Compared with the S. alterniflora area without herbicide application, there was no significant change in the species and quantity of macrobenthos one month after herbicide application. However, in the third year after herbicide application, S. alterniflora near the study area failed to invade the area where the herbicide was applied, indicating that residual toxins were likely to remain in the soil. In summary, haloxyfop-R-methyl can effectively control S. alterniflora, and haloxyfop-R-methyl application can be used as an optional method to eliminate newly invaded small areas of S. alterniflora, but it is not recommended to use herbicides in large areas. In the future, it is necessary to strengthen the monitoring of herbicide residues in soil and water and comprehensively assess the impact of herbicides on the environment and organisms to provide sufficient technical support for the use of herbicides to control S. alterniflora.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of four different herbicides, namely Glyphosate, Paraquat, Dicamba, and S-metolachlor, in controlling post-emergence weeds in cotton fields. The experiment was conducted in Layyah, and the selected weed species included Pigweed, Canada thistle, barnyardgrass, Field bindweed, Purslane, Bermuda grass, Green amaranth, and Puncture vine. A randomized complete block design was employed, with four treatments and four replications within each treatment. One-meter quadrates were randomly placed within each replication to collect data on weed abundance. The recommended herbicide doses were applied, including 3 liters per hectare of Glyphosate, 1 liter per hectare of Paraquat, 1 liter per hectare of Dicamba, and 1.5 liters per hectare of S-metolachlor. The effectiveness of the herbicides was observed at regular intervals, noting the time taken for visible weed control and weed mortality. Data were collected for three time points to assess the herbicides' long-term efficacy. Data analysis revealed variations in the effectiveness of the herbicides on different weed species. Treatment T3 (Dicamba) consistently exhibited the highest control, while T4 (S-metolachlor) showed the lowest effectiveness. Mean weed densities across the treatments indicated significant reductions in pigweed, Canada thistle, barnyardgrass, and field bindweed. However, no statistically significant differences were observed among the treatments for purslane, Bermuda grass, green amaranth, and puncture vine. These findings provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of different herbicides in controlling post-emergence weeds in cotton fields. The results can inform farmers and agricultural professionals in selecting appropriate herbicides for effective weed management. Further research is warranted to evaluate the long-term effects and environmental considerations associated with the herbicides. The study highlights the importance of multiple data collection time points to assess the sustained effectiveness of herbicide treatments.

Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle) is a tree native to China which has invaded disturbed areas in many regions worldwide. Its presence endangers natural ecosystems by displacing native species, modifying habitats, changing community structures, and affecting ecosystem processes. Its invasive nature is enhanced by its high ability to reproduce both vegetatively through root regrowth and sexually through seeds. Seeds, which are wind dispersed, are the main mechanism by which this species reaches new habitats. When they germinate and develop the root system, roots emit new shoots that contribute to a rapid increase in the tree density and the subsequent expansion of the population nearby. The contradictory results about the ecological requirements for seeds to germinate and their degree of dormancy and longevity indicate the complexity and difficulty of understanding the mechanisms that govern the biology and adaptability of this plant. The management of this weed aims at its eradication, with programs based on herbicide applications carried out by injecting the active ingredient directly to the trunk. But, not many active ingredients have shown total control, so new ones should be tested in order to increase the range of available herbicides. During the last few decades, some biological agents have been identified, but their efficacy in controlling the tree and their safety for the local flora have not yet been determined. A correct management strategy should take into account all these aspects in order to contain the expansion of this species and, ultimately, allow its eradication.