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The non-native invasive box-tree moth Cydalima perspectalis causes severe damage to ornamental box trees (Buxus spp.) and natural boxwood stands. So far, no promising natural enemy of C. perspectalis has been discovered in Europe. Many garden owners would like to protect their box trees from C. perspectalis without the use of insecticides, which also harm other arthropod species. In a controlled experiment under natural conditions, we tested whether box trees covered with a net during the flight period of C. perspectalis are as well protected against the moth as trees treated with a bioinsecticide. After 1 year, the box trees covered with a net during the moths' flight activity (monitored by light traps) showed no damage by larvae (average loss of leaves 0%), as did box trees regularly treated with a bioinsecticide (control group 1). In contrast, box trees with no protection (untreated box trees; control group 2) lost 97.7% of their leaves due to larval feeding. In a second experiment, we investigated whether defoliated box trees can recover when covered with a net during the flight period of the moth. Protected by the net, the emerging new leaves were not attacked by C. perspectalis. After 1.5 years, the trees had 24% of their original foliage again. Our study demonstrates that temporarily covering box trees with a net protects them against damage by C. perspectalis in an effective way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cherry productivity is challenging in Europe due to the presence of the cherry fruit fly (Rhagoletis cerasi). Trunk injection is an alternative method of insecticide delivery that may improve pesticide performance in controlling pests. In our study, four pesticides (abamectin, acetamiprid, flupyradifurone, and cyantraniliprole) were investigated for trunk injection against R. cerasi. Acetamiprid trunk injection in a minimum dose of 0.56 g/tree was suitable for protection against the pest, the efficacy of the control was over 95%, and the pesticide residue concentrations in the fruits were below the maximum permissible limit in each experiment. The trunk injection and foliar spray of the same dose of acetamiprid were equally effective. In the case of the other three active ingredients (abamectin, flupyradifurone, and cyantraniliprole), the trunk injection method did not prove suitable for practical use due to various reasons, which are detailed in the manuscript. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

European countries have set ambitious policy goals to reduce the risks of pesticides to the environment and human health. European agriculture could play a leading role in the transition to a low pesticide risk future, with various societal benefits. However, such a transition also involves trade‐offs, costs, and risks for farmers and society. Here, we summarize possible implications for agriculture and food systems in Europe and beyond and discuss avenues for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The generalist predator Nesidiocoris tenuis, an effective biological control agent of numerous pests of the tomato crops, can also trigger plant defence mechanisms (direct and indirect) due to its phytophagous behaviour. In southern Europe, Nesidiocoris tenuis is frequently released in tomato greenhouses to control the invasive pest Tuta absoluta, sometimes combined with another biocontrol agent, the egg parasitoid Trichogramma achaeae. In this study, using olfactometer bioassays, we showed that the modification of the volatile chemical profile induced by the plant feeding activity of the mirid made tomato plants more attractive to T. achaeae, both in the absence and in the presence of T. absoluta eggs or larvae. This result was discussed in relation to difference observed among the chemical profiles of the volatile organic compounds released by tomato plants punctured by N. tenuis, without or in combination with T. absoluta infestation. We found that a few compounds (e.g.β-pinene and myrcene) could play a role in the foraging behaviour of T. achaeae in this scenario. Overall, our data support the emerging idea of an ecological role of N. tenuis, in addition to its predatory activity, in making tomato crops more resilient against the attack of pests, including T. absoluta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern agricultural pest management systems rely on naturally occurring generalist predators to promote pest suppression. Still, little research has been done to assess their overall effectiveness, especially over the winter period when their potential is high. In this study, we focused on three genera of winter-active spiders Clubiona, Philodromus, and Anyphaena, common predators on pear trees in Central Europe during winter and early spring. We investigated their predation activity, natural diet, and prey preference using molecular gut content and abundance data obtained from cardboard bands, which served as natural shelters. We compared these characteristics between two distinct biocontrol-promoting managements—integrated pest management (IPM) and organic management (ORG). We found the proportion of prey-positive spider individuals during the winter period to be lower compared to the spring period with Anyphaena having by far the highest proportion. The prey composition during winter was more diverse in ORG orchards, but in both managements, it was inclined toward pests, mostly pear psyllids. Conversely, in early spring, despite psyllids still being a part of the diet, spiders in IPM orchards preyed more frequently on neutral prey (mostly dipterans), while the spiders from organic orchards preyed mostly on pests (lepidopterans). Although more data are needed to assess trophic interactions and the overall efficiency of these winter-active predators in complex arthropod food webs present in pear orchards, the results obtained from this research provide the first evidence of higher pest predation during a period of agricultural quiescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The accurate identification of the Oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis, is complicated by its similarities to other species and taxonomic uncertainties. This represents a significant threat to fruit crops as it is already present in Europe, and this is a cause for great concern. To expedite identification, a reliable method using a unique technical approach was developed. The initial phase involved collecting specimens from the population present in Italy to create a large and representative sample, enabling us to optimize the method. This method has demonstrated high sensitivity and accuracy in detecting small amounts of B. dorsalis DNA. It now serves as a valuable tool for routine diagnostics, facilitating efficient pest management and detection. Given the recent infestations in Italy, this diagnostic protocol is crucial for monitoring and preventing the passive spread of B. dorsalis in Europe. Accurate identification of Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae), commonly known as the Oriental fruit fly, is a significant challenge due to the morphological convergence and taxonomic uncertainties of species belonging to the same genus. This highly polyphagous species poses a significant threat to fruit crops. With its potential establishment in Europe becoming a growing concern, there is an urgent need for rapid and efficient diagnostic methods. The study presented here introduces a diagnostic protocol based on real-time PCR using a TaqMan probe for the early and reproducible identification of B. dorsalis. Specimens representing the genetic diversity of the Italian population were collected and analyzed. Specific primers and probe were designed based on the conserved regions and an in silico analysis confirmed their specificity. The assay conditions were optimized, and analytical sensitivity, specificity, repeatability, and reproducibility were evaluated. The protocol showed high sensitivity and specificity, accurately detecting low DNA concentrations of B. dorsalis. This standardized method provides a reliable tool for routine diagnostics, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of identifying the Oriental fruit fly at all stages of its development, thereby facilitating effective pest management measures. The development of this diagnostic protocol is crucial for monitoring and supporting efforts to prevent the passive spread of B. dorsalis in Europe, particularly in light of the recent active infestations detected in Italy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Apples are among the most heavily treated fruits against pests. Finding new, more environmentally friendly solutions for pest control is essential. Biological control is one of these, and can involve the use of predatory insects to eliminate pests. The earwig is one such predatory insect. We set out to determine whether earwigs had developed resistance mechanisms to the molecules to which they are exposed in orchards. A single population of earwigs was sampled in three types of orchard (organic, conventional and integrated pest management) and compared with each other. Mutations and higher expression levels in genes known to confer resistance were identified. These results highlight the effect of pesticide use on beneficial organisms and the resulting effect on the biodiversity of natural enemies in orchards. To date, apple orchards are among the most treated crops in Europe with up to 35 chemical treatments per year. Combining control methods that reduce the number of pesticide treatments is essential for agriculture and more respectful of the environment, and the use of predatory insects such as earwigs may be valuable to achieve this goal. European earwigs, Forficula auricularia (Dermaptera: Forficulidae) are considered beneficial insects in apple orchards where they can feed on many pests like aphids. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential impact of orchards' insecticide treatments on resistance-associated molecular processes in natural populations of earwigs. Because very few molecular data are presently available on earwigs, our first goal was to identify earwig resistance-associated genes and potential mutations. Using earwigs from organic, integrated pest management or conventional orchards, we identified mutations in acetylcholinesterase 2, α1 and β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. In addition, the expression level of these targets and of some essential detoxification genes were monitored using RT-qPCR. Unexpectedly, earwigs collected in organic orchards showed the highest expression for acetylcholinesterase 2. Four cytochromes P450, one esterase and one glutathione S-transferases were over-expressed in earwigs exposed to various management strategies in orchards. This first study on resistance-associated genes in Forficula auricularia paves the way for future experimental studies aimed at better understanding the potential competition between natural enemies in apple orchards in order to optimize the efficiency of biocontrol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann), the Mediterranean fruit fly or medfly, is one of the world's most serious threats to fresh fruits. It is highly polyphagous (recorded from over 300 hosts) and capable of adapting to a wide range of climates. This pest has spread to the EPPO region and is mainly present in the southern part, damaging Citrus and Prunus. In Northern and Central Europe records refer to interceptions or short‐lived adventive populations only. Sustainable programs for surveillance, spread assessment using models and control strategies for pests such as C. capitata represent a major plant health challenge for all countries in Europe. This article includes a review of pest distribution and monitoring techniques in 11 countries of the EPPO region. This work compiles information that was crucial for a better understanding of pest occurrence and contributes to identifying areas susceptible to potential invasion and establishment. The key outputs and results obtained in the Euphresco project included knowledge transfer about early detection tools and methods used in different countries for pest monitoring. A MaxEnt software model resulted in risk maps for C. capitata in different climatic regions. This is an important tool to help decision making and to develop actions against this pest in the different partner countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pollen beetle, Brassicogethes aeneus, is an economically important pest of oilseed rape (Brassica napus) throughout Europe. The control of B. aeneus has relied heavily on the use of chemical insecticides leading to the evolution of resistance. However, investigation of the molecular basis of resistance has been hampered by an absence of genomic resources for this species, including the lack of a reference genome assembly. Here we address this need by generating a chromosome-scale genome assembly for B. aeneus. A combination of long-read single-molecule sequencing and in vivo chromatin conformation capture (Hi-C) sequencing was used to generate an assembly of 585 Mb, comprising 11 chromosome sized scaffolds (scaffold N50 of 61.6 Mb) and containing 13,381 protein-coding genes. We leveraged the new assembly, in combination with post-genomic functional approaches to investigate the molecular basis of metabolic resistance to pyrethroid insecticides in B. aeneus. Our data confirmed that two P450s, CYP6BQ23 and CYP6BQ25, have the capacity to metabolise the pyrethroid deltamethrin in B. aeneus and thus have the potential to confer resistance. However, the relative expression of these P450s in pyrethroid susceptible and resistant strains suggests that CYP6BQ23 plays a much more significant role in resistance than CYP6BQ25. In summary, the high-quality genome assembly for B. aeneus reported here provides a valuable resource for future research on this species. Our findings on P450-mediated resistance to insecticides are of applied relevance for the development of strategies for the sustainable control of this important pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relative contributions of agricultural intensity and semi‐natural habitats to the multifunctionality and sustainability of ecosystems at different spatial scales remain largely under‐investigated.In this study, we assessed the multifunctionality of 40 winter cereal fields and 40 hedgerows based on ecological, agronomic and socio‐economic performance using data from field surveys and interviews with farmers. We specifically focused on the effects of local farming systems (organic vs. conventional) and management (cereals intercropped with legumes vs. monocrops), the effects of landscape heterogeneity related to hedgerow density, and the spatial extent of semi‐natural habitat and organic farming.Multifunctionality indices associated with increased values of proxies for biodiversity conservation and pest control functions were higher for hedgerows than crop fields.Agroecosystem multifunctionality was similar between organic and conventional farming as a consequence of antagonistic responses of individual function proxies. While organic farming promoted the ecological performance of crops, conventional farming resulted in higher agronomic performance (i.e. yield). Interestingly, lower yields of organic crops were not systematically associated with reductions in socio‐economic performance in terms of farmer income and labour.At the landscape scale, hedgerow density and the extent of semi‐natural habitats and organic farming had little influence on agroecosystem multifunctionality or individual function proxies.Synthesis and applications. Our results confirm the high value of hedgerows and organic farming at the local scale for the ecological performance of ecosystems. Our study suggests that, among existing agri‐environment schemes in Europe, hedgerow planting and organic farming are appropriate tools to optimise the ecological performance of ecosystems at the local scale even if antagonistic effects with agronomic performance should not be neglected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concerns about food safety issues have put considerable pressure on pesticide producers in Europe and worldwide to reduce the levels of pesticide residues in food. The aim of this work is to assess the use of traditional pesticides and their effects, to present perspectives in this field and to identify regulatory needs for their use and implementation. The work is based on a systematic review in which the research problem was defined, primary sources were selected and critically appraised, data were collected, analysed and evaluated, and conclusions were formulated. The state of the pesticide market and the current legal requirements for risk assessment in relation to exposure to chemical substances were reviewed. Food safety issues are presented through the prism of pesticide residues in food. Their widespread use and considerable persistence have made them ubiquitous in the natural environment and their residues pose a threat to the environment and to human and animal health. It has been shown that the most important factor influencing the search for new tools to control diseases and pests of crops is the progressive development of resistance of these populations to currently used pesticides. Various alternatives to the phasing out of synthetic pesticides in the form of natural products are therefore being developed to support the development of the natural products market. Natural phytotoxins can be used as herbicides, but it is more effective to use bioherbicides as templates for synthetic herbicides. They can also be used to discover new modes of action and molecular targets for future herbicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The tomato russet mite (TRM) is a significant problem in greenhouse tomato crops, and it has recently become more prevalent in Europe. The few acaricides available for its control are not specific and their effectiveness is limited. Several predatory mites have been tested for regulating TRM populations. Although these predators consumed most TRM stages in lab conditions, they were not able to freely move across the tomato plant due to the presence of glandular trichomes. TRM seeks refuge from predation precisely in the dense layer of glandular trichomes, in the upper part of the tomato plant. Consequently, most of predatory mites failed under crop conditions due to a lack of adaptation to the tomato plant. In this study, the predatory mite Transeius montdorensis has shown that it is adapted to the tomato plant since it was able to move through the trichome layer and prey upon TRM. When T. montdorensis was preventively released together with its breeding prey, it was able to greatly limit the growth of the TRM population in a tomato plot, and thus an increase of yield was observed. Therefore, T. montdorensis is a promising candidate for the control of TRM. In this study, the predatory mite Transeius montdorensis (Acari, Phytoseiidae) was tested for the control of the tomato russet mite (TRM) Aculops lycopersici (Acari, Eriophyidae) in experiments with small plants, under semi-field and crop conditions. The releasing strategy consisted of repeatedly introducing the predator together with additional breeding prey. The predator was able to move and disperse to the upper part of the tomato plant where the TRM seeks refuge. At the crop level, significant reductions in TRM populations were observed that resulted in a significantly higher yield compared to the conventional control plot, where pesticides were used to control the pest. Caution should be taken when extreme temperatures or humidity occur as they could be deleterious to the predator population. Hence, crop practices should include the management of environmental parameters in the greenhouse to ensure the success of this TRM-control strategy. In conclusion, this biological approach seems to be an effective measure to control the pest and should be further implemented at crop level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Insect pests are a major problem worldwide and their control represents an urgency for human well-being. Insecticides acting as chitin-synthesis inhibitors (CSIs) are one of the major tools used to control these insects, but resistance is evolving in many species against several chemical classes, such as oxazolines and benzoylureas. Genetic studies showed that resistance is associated with point mutations in position 1043 of the chitin-synthase 1 gene (chs1), which change an isoleucine into phenylalanine, leucine or methionine (i.e., I1043F; I1043L; I1043M, respectively). Here, we studied the molecular and phenotypic characteristics of the homozygous I1043M strain in the mosquito Culex pipiens by comparing susceptible and resistant individuals. Our results showed that resistant mosquitoes have a striking level of resistance when exposed to the CSI diflubenzuron. Furthermore, cuticle modifications and the over-expression of the chs1 gene were detected in resistant Cx. pipiens, which are associated and, thus, likely contribute to resistance, as well as to the intensity of the resistant phenotype. Since mutations on the chs1 gene are conserved among different arthropod pest species, our results could be valuable to understand CSI resistance not only in mosquitoes, but also in a wider perspective. Insecticide resistance is a major threat challenging the control of harmful insect species. The study of resistant phenotypes is, therefore, pivotal to understand molecular mechanisms underpinning insecticide resistance and plan effective control and resistance management strategies. Here, we further analysed the diflubenzuron (DFB)-resistant phenotype due to the point-mutation I1043M in the chitin-synthase 1 gene (chs1) in the mosquito Culex pipiens. By comparing susceptible and resistant strains of Cx. pipiens through DFB bioassays, molecular analyses and scanning electron microscopy, we showed that the I1043M-resistant mosquitoes have: (i) a striking level of DFB resistance (i.e., resistance ratio: 9006); (ii) a constitutive 11-fold over-expression of the chs1 gene; (iii) enhanced cuticle thickness and cuticular chitin content. Culex pipiens is one of the most important vector species in Europe and the rapid spread of DFB resistance can threaten its control. Our results, by adding new data about the DFB-resistant phenotype, provide important information for the control and management of insecticide resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scientists who work on bioinspired systems may see the potential for products resulting from their research, but are often unaware of the various steps or issues related to commercialization or product development. Commercialization topics lie outside the usual training of a basic biologist, and therefore much of their exposure to these topics is adventitious, such as from casual conversations at meetings. Thus, the information gleaned may be somewhat piecemeal. In this paper, I briefly summarize some of what I have learned over the last 10 years about commercialization from a variety of different sources, related to a bioinspired project in which I am involved. My collaborators and I have invented and patented a technology to entrap insect pests by a purely physical mechanism (a "physical insecticide" that does not involve a chemical insecticide). This bioinspired technology is based on a historical control method, in which leaves from bean plants were used to capture bed bugs for hundreds of years in parts of eastern Europe. Sharp recurved microstructures (nonglandular trichomes) on the leaf surfaces irreversibly impale the tarsi (feet) of the bed bugs as they walk over the surfaces, trapping them in place. Pest professionals have identified bed bugs as the most difficult pest to control; there is a clear need for new methods of control for this pest. There are societal benefits and consumer demand for products that are sustainable, without regulatory constraints, and that minimize insecticide exposure for humans. But how would these products be developed from this starting point of a bioinspired invention? I will briefly share some of our experiences in the early and ongoing product development of entrapping surfaces, with the hope that this might interest or aid others who are considering entrepreneurial activities. Unfamiliar topics such as intellectual property, customer segmentation, value propositions, business models, conflict of interest, and conflict of commitment may require some attention from prospective entrepreneurs. This brief and introductory overview is intended for those academic scientists with little to no experience or knowledge in the area of commercialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In behavioural field experiments, we aimed to study the interchangeability of molecular structures, which only differ by single hydrogen, hydroxyl or methyl group from components of a known attractant blend of the flower damaging Epicometis hirta (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae), and two other cetoniin occasional pests Cetonia aurata aurata and Potosia cuprea, typical to the fauna of Central and Southern Europe. Rac. 1‐phenethyl alcohol or methyl eugenol (of the known attractant blend of rac. 1‐phenethyl alcohol, (E)‐anethol and methyl eugenol) were replaced with structurally similar floral compounds widespread among plant families in general. All baited treatments caught significantly more of the three species compared with the unbaited control. The ternary blend containing 2‐phenethyl alcohol caught numerically the most of the three species and gave a significant increase compared with the basic blend with rac. 1‐phenethyl alcohol for C. a. aurata and E. hirta. Benzyl alcohol performed similarly well to 2‐phenethyl alcohol in catching C. a. aurata and P. cuprea, and it was superior to the blend with phenylacetaldehyde. On the contrary, for E. hirta, the treatment containing phenylacetaldehyde was better than the combination with benzyl alcohol, resulting in a similar effect to the blend with 2‐phenethyl alcohol. In another experiment, the known ternary blend including methyl eugenol performed numerically the best in attracting E. hirta compared with the blends with eugenol or isoeugenol, which results are congruent with the earlier findings on C. a. aurata and P. cuprea. Our work resulted in a single optimized attractant combination for all three cetoniin species that includes 2‐phenethyl alcohol, methyl eugenol and (E)‐anethol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae L. (Aphididae: Hemiptera) a destructive aphid, is native to Europe and is now found in many other parts of the world. Currently, one of the main problems of Iranian cabbage growers is the significant damage caused by this pest. Also, due to the fresh eating of cabbage, it is necessary to use non-chemical methods to control the pests. Our bioassay tests showed that Melia azedarach L. (Meliaceae) fruit extract showed high toxicity to cabbage aphid. In this study, sublethal effects of M. azedarach extract was investigated on some demographic and biochemical properties of B. brassicae. The results showed that the sublethal concentrations (LC 10 and LC 20) and LC 50 values were 0.68, 1.16, and 3.42 μg/ml, respectively. Compared to the control, sublethal concentrations of insecticide significantly decreased the gross reproductive rate (GRR), net reproductive rate (R 0), intrinsic rate of increase (r m), finite rate of increase (λ), intrinsic rate of birth (b), intrinsic rate of death (d), weekly growth rate (r w), reproductive rate and adult longevity of the pest. Meanwhile, the mean generation time (T) and population doubling time (DT) of this aphid increased significantly. Additionally, sublethal doses of insecticide reduced the energy reserves of the pest such as carbohydrate, protein and lipid content compared to the controls. In addition to modify the pH, this extract also changed the distribution and concentration of sodium and potassium ions in haemolymph. Therefore, sublethal concentrations of M. Azedarach fruit extract can be used in the management program of B. brassicae. [Display omitted] • Sublethal doses of Melia azedarach extract significantly affected B. brassicae 's biological and biochemical parameters. • LC 20 significantly reduced longevity, fecundity, r m , R 0 , λ , r w , and GRR and increased T and DT than LC 10 and control. • LC 20 and LC 10 significantly reduced the energy reserves, Na+, K+, and pH of B. brassicae compared to control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

European countries have set ambitious targets to reduce the risks of pesticide use. Achieving these targets will require a large proportion of farmers to adopt sustainable crop protection practices. However, how to enable this transition and what are the best policies to support farmers remain open questions. Here, we provide a coherent review of existing evidence and new insights into farmer decision-making and policy analysis in the context of the transition to more sustainable crop protection. We synthesise and extend the empirical evidence and the conceptual and methodological foundations to examine farmers' decisions to adopt sustainable crop protection and to assess the potential of different policy measures to support this transition. Our analysis focuses on European agriculture. We provide a framework and synthesise evidence by reviewing the literature and combining agronomic and economic perspectives. We focus on three issues: i) indicators for empirical analyses of adoption of sustainable crop protection practices; ii) behavioural perspectives on farmer adoption; iii) insights into methodological approaches for assessing adoption of sustainable crop protection practices and related policies. We have identified four main findings and implications. First, sustainable crop protection practices consist of combinations and bundles of individual measures that are not currently regularly considered in policy instruments and policy analysis. Second, definitions of adoption should move from simple adoption metrics to impacts, for example on pesticide risk reduction. Third, behavioural factors are highly relevant to farmers' adoption decisions, but are currently under-researched and under-represented in the field of sustainable crop protection practices. Fourth, the tools currently used for policy analysis do not allow these key aspects to be represented. We draw policy conclusions. Our analyses help guide policy decisions to achieve pesticide use and risk reduction objectives, and have implications for pesticide policy in Europe and beyond. We identify gaps in current conceptual and methodological approaches, promising avenues for future research, and ways to make results more coherent and comparable. Our analysis thus provides new insights and templates to guide future research and policy analysis on the adoption of sustainable crop protection approaches. [Display omitted] • The adoption of sustainable crop protection practices is needed to meet ambitious targets for reducing the risk of pesticide use. • We provide new insights into farmer decision-making and policy analysis towards more sustainable crop protection approaches. • Definitions of adoption need to move from simple adoption metrics to impacts, for example on pesticide risk reduction. • Behavioural factors are highly relevant to farmers' sustainable crop protection decisions, but are currently under-researched. • Our analysis will help guide policy decisions to achieve pesticide use and risk reduction targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The intensification of the agricultural practices in Europe over the last decades has drastically transformed the agroecosystems. The simplification of the landscape, the loss of semi-natural habitats and the application of chemicals on crops are known to have led to biodiversity decline in agricultural landscapes, raising substantial concerns about the loss of essential ecosystem services, such as pollination or pest control. Depending on the location, the scale and the regional context, different indicator species groups (ISGs) are often surveyed to assess the state and trend of biodiversity changes in agroecosystems. Although the high diversity of these ISGs allows a broad overview of the biodiversity, it complicates the interpretation of the results and thus their application. In addition, species diversity metrics are various, from simple species counts to more complex measurements of diversity indices, sometimes with antagonistic responses. Here, to meet the pressing need for synthesis in this complex topic, we will follow a standardized systematic map protocol to collect and summarize the literature reporting the effects of the main European lowland agricultural management practices (AMPs) on a set of ISGs. Methods: Following the systematic evidence synthesis standards, we developed the question to address in the systematic map using the PICO framework. We established a preliminary search string by combining search terms for the categories Population (ISGs), Intervention (AMPs) and Outcome (species diversity), as well as with two additional groups (Environment—to focus on lowland crop and grassland—and Location—to restrict the study area to Europe). We will conduct a comprehensive literature search of relevant peer-reviewed and grey literature using Web of Science and CABI platforms, Google Scholar, specialized websites and through our professional collaborator network. The comprehensiveness of the search will be assessed by comparing the literature collected to a test-list of ninety relevant articles. The repeatability of the literature screening process will be ensured by a list of inclusion/exclusion criteria and inter-reviewer consistency statistical tests. Data extraction will be organized in three complementary tables (article references, study characteristics, species diversity), on which we will perform queries to produce the tables, figures and maps that will compose the systematic map. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize pests like Ostrinia nubilalis and Diabrotica virgifera virgifera are eradicated using genetically modified maize. This study's goal was to see if the genetically modified maize MON810 is also toxic to thrips communities on maize. The impact of Bt maize on thrips diversity and abundance, as well as yield losses, was studied in the field in Borovce for three years (Slovakia). The study used 10 Bt and 10 non-Bt maize cultivars. Thrips were monitored every two weeks during the season using transparent sticky traps installed on the experimental plots (one per plot, 20 per year). In total, 3426 thrips were caught. Thrips populations usually peak around the end of July at BBCH55. Among the species identified were Limothrips denticornis, Limothrips cerealium, Haplothrips aculeatus, Frankliniella schultzei, Frankliniella occidentalis, Thrips tabaci, Aeolothrips fasciatus, Frankliniella tenuicornis, and Chirothrips spp. We found that MON810 maize had no effect on the occurrence or composition of thrips. Their presence was affected by the maize growth phase and growing seasons and partially by the weather. The direct effect on the grain yield was not confirmed. Our research contributed to scientific knowledge of thrips communities found on maize plants in Central Europe, including Bt maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Greenhouse vegetable production is of great importance in southern Europe. It is a cultivation system characterised by a high planting density and environmental conditions that favour the development of pests and diseases. Although alternatives to chemical pest and disease control have been used over recent years in greenhouse crops, it is still mostly plant protection products that are used to protect crops and prevent crop losses. Hand-held spraying equipment is mainly used to apply plant protection products to this type of crop. This equipment is technologically basic, offering low deposition efficiency in the plant canopy, high losses to the ground, and a high risk of worker exposure. In this context, it is important to utilise technologies that reduce the problems associated with using the conventional hand-held sprayers in greenhouses. This study evaluated the deposition and uniformity in the plant canopy and the losses to the ground when applying plant protection products with an electrostatic hand-held sprayer; the results were then compared with applications carried out using a conventional hand-held sprayer. For this purpose, a colorimetric method has been used based on the application of a tartrazine solution. The tests showed that the electrostatic spraying equipment increased the plant canopy deposition by 1.48 times that of the hand-held spray gun, resulting in a 48% reduction in the application rate. There was also a 1.78-times increase in deposition on the underside of the leaves and a 36.36% reduction in losses to the ground. In general, the electrostatic hand-held sprayer improves the effectiveness of the plant canopy deposition and reduces losses to the ground compared to the hand-held spray gun commonly used in pest and disease control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural intensification has led to dramatic declines in bird populations. In particular, the acknowledged role of synthetic pesticides on direct bird intoxication or food resource depletion urges us to seek alternative crop protection methods. Pest exclusion netting systems have recently gained popularity among fruit growers as an efficient means of reducing pest attacks, allowing their transition to organic farming. Single-row exclusion nets, which only cover fruit trees and leave uncovered both the inter-row grassy strips and the hedges, are increasingly being used in apple orchards of Southern Europe. However, net-induced effects on wildlife remain unknown. This study is the first to assess the impacts of single-row exclusion nets on breeding bird communities. We hypothesized that the exclusion net effects would be weaker than those associated with synthetic pesticide use, except for bird species that forage in the tree canopy. We monitored breeding bird abundance, and species richness in 46 commercial apple orchards managed using integrated pest management (IPM) or organic standards with or without exclusion nets. We counted 705 birds belonging to 32 different species. Total bird abundance, the number of observed species, and the Chao1 estimate of species richness were influenced by orchard management strategy. Breeding bird assemblages in organic orchards were as numerous and diverse in both the presence and absence of exclusion nets. In contrast, both bird abundance and species richness were significantly decreased in IPM orchards. The abundance and species richness of bird assemblages and the abundance of a few individual species also increased with the number of hedgerows bordering the orchards. Our results demonstrate that single-row netting systems for organic farming represent an effective pest control strategy with no significant impact on bird communities and highlight the importance of hedgerows along the orchards' edges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The invasive stink bug Halyomorpha halys, native to East Asia, is a severe agricultural pest of worldwide importance, and chemical insecticides are largely sprayed for its control. Negative impact and failures of chemical pest management led to consider classical biological control as one of the most promising methods in a long-term perspective. The Asian egg parasitoid Trissolcus japonicus is the main candidate biocontrol agent of H. halys, but more recently a second species, Trissolcus mitsukurii, which shares the area of origin with H. halys, has drawn special attention after adventive populations were found in Europe. Despite its recent detection, intentional release or redistribution are bound to approval of national petitions, which requires detailed risk analyses. With the aim of providing a contribution for the future development of a risk assessment for release purposes, here we present the first study on the physiological (fundamental) host range of T. mitsukurii in Europe. Tests conducted on different hemipterans common to Southern Europe, using three different experimental designs, revealed a oligophagous host range, limited to Pentatomoidea and comparable with the host range displayed by T. japonicus under similar laboratory conditions. In addition to its coevolved host H. halys, T. mitsukurii successfully parasitized the majority of tested pentatomid species and one scutellerid, although with highly variable emergence rates. Notably high parasitization rates were detected on H. halys, Acrosternum heegeri and Dolycoris baccarum. Host egg sizes positively affected parasitoid size and female egg load. Although T. mitsukurii might be a promising biological control agent of H. halys in Europe, further studies (e.g., chemical ecology, field parasitism) are needed for assessment of non-target risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: Drones can be a very useful tool to help mosquito control tasks in areas where these insects are an important vector of disease transmission. Storing sterile mosquitoes in drones and releasing them in targeted areas where previous suppression of wild populations has been performed can be a major advance in this methodology. This is part of the sterile insect techniques (SIT) which have been demonstrated to be an environmentally friendly solution for the control of insect pests. However, the use of drones in the areas where these operations are foreseen is limited by the fact that we have a regulation that advances at a slower pace than technology. Of particular interest is the case of the suppression of mosquito populations in urban areas below the transmission threshold, where drones and their operating conditions must meet demanding safety requirements. This article presents the current regulatory situation in Europe that affects drone operations and its applicability to the case of the release of sterile mosquitoes to control the population of these insects in two different scenarios: urban and rural areas. In recent years, several countries have developed the use of sterile insect techniques (SIT) to fight against mosquitoes that transmit diseases. From a technical and economic point of view, the use of drones in the aerial release of sterile mosquitoes leads to important improvements in aerial coverage and savings in operational costs due to the requirement of fewer release sites and field staff. However, these operations are under the European drone regulation, one of the most advanced in the world. The main contribution and novelty of this paper with respect to previous work is the analysis of the SIT application with drones under the European risk-based regulation in two scenarios: urban and rural areas. The specific operations risk assessment (SORA) methodology has been applied to assess the risk of drone operations in these scenarios. The paper presents the operational requirements for aerial release of mosquitoes with drones along with the regulatory considerations that must be applied. Finally, an overview of the conditions in operation that could relax risks and mitigation measures is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Asian chestnut gall wasp Dryocosmus kuriphilus Yasumatsu (Hymenoptera, Cynipidae) is a critical pest that threatens chestnut cultivation. The chestnut gall wasp causes yield losses by deforming the buds of the infected trees. This pest, which was first detected in Italy in 2002 in Europe, was seen in Gacık village of Yalova province in 2014 in Türkiye. In the following years, it spread to Bursa, Istanbul, Sakarya, Kocaeli, Balıkesir, Bilecik, Düzce, Giresun, Bartın, Zonguldak, Sinop and İzmir provinces. In this study, the orchard of chestnut gene resources belonging to the Ali Nihat Gökyiğit research station in Samsun province was examined for the presence of the Asian chestnut gall wasp. As a result of the study, the presence of the Asian chestnut gall wasp was determined in the cultivars Marigoule' and 'Macit 55'. As a result of the counts made in 50 cm parts of the branches, it was determined that the presence of chestnut gall wasp is in a higher population in the 'Marigoule' cultivar than in the other cultivars. However, the invasion in Samsun is at the early stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollen beetles (Brassicogethes spp.) are the main pests of oilseed rape (OSR, Brassica napus) in Europe and responsible for massive yield losses. Upcoming pesticide resistances highlight the need for other means of crop protection, such as natural pest control. Sown flower fields aim to counteract the decrease of insect biodiversity in agricultural landscapes by providing resources to ecosystem service providers. However, the optimal age and size of flower fields to increase natural pest control is still unclear.We conducted experiments on 31 OSR fields located along a gradient of landscape‐scale semi‐natural habitat (SNH). OSR fields were located adjacent to flower fields which differed in age, continuity and size, or adjacent to crop fields or calcareous grasslands. Pesticide‐free areas were established to examine interactive effects of pesticide use and flower field characteristics. The abundance of pollen beetle adults and larvae, parasitism and superparasitism rates in OSR were recorded at increasing distances to the adjacent sites.Flower fields and calcareous grasslands increased pollen beetle parasitism when compared to OSR fields neighbouring crop fields. The threshold for effective natural pest control of 35% could be reached in the pesticide‐free areas of OSR fields adjacent to calcareous grasslands and flower fields maintained continuously for at least 6 years. In pesticide‐sprayed areas, pollen beetle parasitism and superparasitism declined with increasing distance to the adjacent field. Furthermore, flower fields larger than 1.5 ha were able to improve pollen beetle parasitism more than smaller fields.Synthesis and applications. To promote natural pest control in oilseed rape (OSR), large flower fields should be maintained for several years, to create stable habitats for natural enemies. The continuous maintenance of flower fields should be preferred, as ploughing and resowing after 5–6 years decreased the positive effects of the flower fields on natural pest control in adjacent OSR fields. However, pesticide use can abrogate positive effects of flower fields on pollen beetle parasitism. This study highlights that sown flower fields have the potential to increase natural pest control in OSR, but this potential is depending on its age, continuity and size and can be hindered by pesticide use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Central European Agriculture is the property of Journal of Central European Agriculture and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Vineyards face several biotic threats that compromise the grape quality and quantity. Among those that cause relevant economic impact and have worldwide distribution are the oomycete Plasmopara vitícola, the fungi Erysiphe necator and Botrytis cinerea, and the arthropods Lobesia botrana, Tetranychus urticae, and Phylaenus spumarius (principal vector of the bacterial disease Xylella fastidiosa in Europe). Their management relies primarily on agrochemicals with short persistence; widespread use of these chemicals causes environmental and human health problems. The challenge of sustainable viticulture is to provide ecologically sound alternatives. In this regard, the application of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) and natural products derived from their symbionts can be an alternative. EPNs are well-known biocontrol agents for soil-dwelling insects. However, current research demonstrates the great potential of both EPN and their derivates as direct bio-tools against some of the key fungal and arthropods pests present aboveground. In addition, recent evidence shows that detecting EPN presence and activity and their relation with other soil organisms associated with them can help us to understand the impact of different agricultural practices on vineyard management. Altogether, this review illustrates the great potential of EPN to enhance pest and disease management in the next generation of viticulture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inundative mass application of Metarhizium brunneum BIPESCO 5 (Hypocreales, Clavicipitaceae) is used for the biological control of Diabrotica v. virgifera (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae). Long-term field trials were performed in three Austrian maize fields—with different cultivation techniques and infestation rates—in order to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment to control the pest larvae. In addition, the indigenous Metarhizium spp. population structure was assessed to compare the different field sites with BIPESCO 5 mass application. Annual application of the product Granmet-PTM (Metarhizium colonized barley kernels) significantly increased the density of Metarhizium spp. in the treated soil above the upper natural background level of 1000 colony forming units per gram dry weight soil. Although a decrease in the pest population over time was not achieved in heavily infested areas, less damage occurred in treated field sites in comparison to control sites. The Metarhizium population structure was significantly different between the treated field sites. Results showed that inundative mass application should be repeated regularly to achieve good persistence of the biological control agent, and indicated that despite intensive applications, indigenous populations of Metarhizium spp. can coexist in these habitats. To date, crop rotation remains the method of choice for pest reduction in Europe, however continuous and preventive application of M. brunneum may also present an alternative for the successful biological control of Diabrotica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor is considered one of the main threats to the western honey bee (Apis mellifera). Efficient pest management is crucial, and the evaporation of formic acid (FA) is an active principle that could be adopted. However, the usage of FA has an extreme variable efficacy depending on several conditions, ambient temperature among them. Cooler conditions, as they usually occur in Central Europe in late summer and autumn, can negatively affect treatment success. Our study aims to evaluate factors that influence the efficacy of different FA treatments. Over a period of 8 years, we investigated the effect of ambient temperature, hive size and dispenser type on the treatment success with 60% and 85% FA and consolidated those factors in a linear regression model. Treatment with 60% FA shows higher variability, and often lowered efficacy, especially in double brood chamber hives. In contrast, 85% FA treatment achieves higher efficacy and lower variability and shows significantly diminished dependence on ambient temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eupteryx decemnotata (Rey) is an oligophagous species of potential economic importance. It is native to Mediterranean region. Then, it spread throughout most of Europe and reached North America. In this work it is recorded for the first time in Argentina. Distinctive characters of the species are mentioned and illustrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The strawberry blossom weevil (SBW), Anthonomus rubi, is a major pest in strawberry fields throughout Europe. Traps baited with aggregation pheromone are used for pest monitoring. However, a more effective lure is needed. For a number of pests, it has been shown that the attractiveness of a pheromone can be enhanced by host plant volatiles. The goal of this study was to explore floral volatile blends of different strawberry species (Fragaria x ananassa and Fragaria vesca) to identify compounds that might be used to improve the attractiveness of existing lures for SBW. Floral emissions of F. x a. varieties Sonata, Beltran, Korona, and of F. vesca, were collected by both solid-phase microextraction (SPME) and dynamic headspace sampling on Tenax. Analysis by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry showed the floral volatiles of F. x ananassa. and F. vesca were dominated by aromatic compounds and terpenoids, with 4-methoxybenzaldehyde (p-anisaldehyde) and α-muurolene the major compounds produced by the two species, respectively. Multi-dimensional scaling analyses separated the blends of the two species and explained differences between F. vesca genotypes and, to some degree, variation between F. x ananassa varieties In two-choice behavioral tests, SBW preferred odors of flowering strawberry plants to those of non-flowering plants, but weevils did not discriminate between odors from F. x ananassa and F. vesca flowering plants. Adding blends of six synthetic flower volatiles to non-flowering plants of both species increased the preference of SBW for these over the plants alone. When added individually to non-flowering plants, none of the components increased the preference of SBW, indicating a synergistic effect. However, SBW responded to 1,4-dimethoxybenzene, a major component of volatiles from F. viridis, previously found to synergize the attractiveness of the SBW aggregation pheromone in field studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magal et al. [13] studied both spatial and non-spatial host-parasitoid models motivated by biological control of horse-chestnut leaf miners that have spread through Europe. In the non-spatial model, they considered pest control by predation of leaf miners by a generalist parasitoid with a Holling type II functional (Monod) response. They showed that there can be at most six equilibrium points and discussed local stability. We revisit their model in the non-spatial case, identify cases missed in their investigation and discuss consequences for possible pest control strategies. Both the local stability of equilibria and global properties are considered. We use a bifurcation theoretical approach and provide analytical expressions for fold and Hopf bifurcations and for the criticality of the Hopf bifurcations. Our numerical results show very interesting dynamics resulting from codimension one bifurcations including: Hopf, fold, transcritical, cyclic-fold, and homoclinic bifurcations as well as codimension two bifurcations including: Bautin and Bogdanov-Takens bifurcations, and a codimension three Bogdanov-Takens bifurcation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drosophila suzukii Matsumura is an economically important pest of small and stone fruits. Its establishment in the Americas and Europe marked an important turning point in crop management programs. Ten years after its first detection, an effective integrated pest management program has yet to be developed and pesticides are mainly used to control this pest. Here we test a new behavioral control tool, with the aim to develop an alternative pest control strategy. A food-grade gum matrix, was evaluated under controlled and open field conditions for its ability to attract the pest and protect the ripening fruit. Here, we report that the gum effectively reduces fruit infestation when used under managed conditions. We show that a single point source can affect D. suzukii behavior over a 3.6 m radius and last for up to 21 d. Open field data reveal that the efficacy of the gum is significantly impacted by water content. We discuss these results in respect to the future implications for D. suzukii management, along with important considerations on gum mechanism of action, possible application strategies and economic suitability for growers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The large pine weevil (Hylobius abietis L.) is an important pest of young forest stands in Europe. Larvae develop under the bark of freshly cut pine and spruce stumps, but maturing weevils feed on the bark of coniferous seedlings. Such seedlings frequently die because of bark consumption near the root collar. We tested the effect of three treatments (the insecticide alpha cypermethrin, a wax coating and a glue coating) on the feeding damage caused by H. abietis on Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and Norway spruce (Picea abies) seedlings under semi‐natural conditions. In two experiments (one in 2016 and another in 2017) seedlings in cages were subjected to pine weevil feeding for 16 weeks under shaded outdoor conditions. The experiment in 2016 compared insecticide and wax treatments and an untreated control on Douglas fir and Norway spruce, and the experiment in 2017 compared insecticide, wax and glue treatments and an untreated control on Norway spruce. In both experiments, all treatments significantly reduced H. abietis feeding damage at week 8 at the end of both experiments (week 16); the effect of treatments was significant only on spruce seedlings. The damages on Douglas fir seedlings was less on treated seedlings than on untreated control seedlings but differences were not significant. Coating stems with glue and especially with wax was generally effective at reducing weevil damage and in most cases provided control that was not significantly different from that provided by insecticide treatment. Our results suggest that a wax coating has the potential to replace the protection of seedlings provided by insecticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The palm borer moth (Paysandisia archon, Burmeister) is a member of the Castniidae family originally from South America and is currently included in the A2 list of the OEPP/EPPO. This moth was introduced to Europe in 2000 through ornamental palms. Since its accidental introduction, it has become a major threat for natural stands of native palms, as well as for nurseries and gardens in the Mediterranean basin. To date, neither preventive nor control methods have been implemented for managing this pest under field conditions. In this review, we highlight the most relevant information on the biology of P. archon and summarize the available control strategies with a special focus on biocontrol‐based treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Rhagoletis (Diptera: Tephritidae) comprises more than 65 species distributed throughout Europe, Asia and America, including many species of high economic importance. Currently, there are three Rhagoletis species that infest fruits and nuts in Europe. The European cherry fruit fly, Rhagoletis cerasi (may have invaded Europe a long time ago from the Caucasian area of West Asia), and two invasive species (recently introduced from North America): the eastern American cherry fruit fly, R. cingulata , and the walnut husk fly, R. completa. The presence of different Rhagoletis species may enhance population dynamics and establish an unpredictable economic risk for several fruit and nut crops in Europe. Despite their excessive economic importance, little is known on population dynamics, genetics and symbiotic associations for making sound pest control decisions in terms of species-specific, environmental friendly pest control methods. To this end, the current paper (a) summarizes recently accumulated genetic and population data for the European Rhagoletis species and their association with the endosymbiont Wolbachia pipientis , and (b) explores the possibility of using the current knowledge for implementing the innovative biological control methods of sterile insect technique and incompatible insect technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND 1,3‐Dichloropropene (1,3‐D) is a soil fumigant used for the control of nematodes in high‐value fruit, nut and vegetable crops globally. Extensive water monitoring efforts have been undertaken over the past four decades by public and private institutions, given the widespread agricultural use of 1,3‐D, and environmental fate and metabolism data suggesting the potential for 1,3‐D to leach into groundwater. The aim of this study is to review the results of groundwater monitoring studies for 1,3‐D conducted in North America and the European Union (EU) since 1980. RESULTS: Analysis of > 50 000 water samples by state and federal agencies in the USA resulted in 151 detections of 1,3‐D. An additional 4000 samples analyzed in groundwater studies specifically targeting high 1,3‐D use areas in Europe and the USA resulted in 74 detections of 1,3‐D or its primary metabolites. The combined detection rate of 1,3‐D and its primary metabolites in high‐use areas of the EU and North America was 0.7%. CONCLUSIONS: The availability of extensive groundwater monitoring information developed through decades of study supports the conclusion that soil fumigation with 1,3‐D poses an inconsequential risk for drinking water exposure. The lack of significant detections of 1,3‐D from targeted monitoring studies is due to the high volatility of 1,3‐D, the rapid degradation of 1,3‐D in most agricultural soils, the rapid degradation of 1,3‐D and its metabolites in aerobic aquatic systems, and the rapid hydrolysis of 1,3‐D in water. © 2019 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Managing agricultural landscapes to support biodiversity and ecosystem services is a key aim of a sustainable agriculture. However, how the spatial arrangement of crop fields and other habitats in landscapes impacts arthropods and their functions is poorly known. Synthesising data from 49 studies (1515 landscapes) across Europe, we examined effects of landscape composition (% habitats) and configuration (edge density) on arthropods in fields and their margins, pest control, pollination and yields. Configuration effects interacted with the proportions of crop and non‐crop habitats, and species' dietary, dispersal and overwintering traits led to contrasting responses to landscape variables. Overall, however, in landscapes with high edge density, 70% of pollinator and 44% of natural enemy species reached highest abundances and pollination and pest control improved 1.7‐ and 1.4‐fold respectively. Arable‐dominated landscapes with high edge densities achieved high yields. This suggests that enhancing edge density in European agroecosystems can promote functional biodiversity and yield‐enhancing ecosystem services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spodoptera litura is one of the major polyphagous pests of agro-economically important crops in Asia, Africa and Europe, causing up to 100% loss in crop production. Recent research in eco-friendly plant based insecticides has attracted the attention of researchers. In this study, protease inhibitors (PIs) from non-host plant Cassia glauca were partially purified, with 73% trypsin inhibitory activity, to assess its anti-insect potential. Larval growth and development parameters were assessed by supplementing this PI in artificial diet at various concentrations (25–800 μg/ml). Bioassay studies revealed the inhibitory potential of this PI. Increasing concentrations of PI produced a decrease in larval duration, larval weight, number of pupae formed from treated larvae, pupal weight, percentage female emergence, fecundity and percentage hatching. Food utilization experiments showed an anti-nutritional effect of PI as relative growth rate, efficiency of conversion of ingested and digested food declined in a dose response manner whereas relative consumption rate, approximate digestibility and metabolic cost increased in larvae reared on PI supplemented diet. Experiments with digestive proteases in vitro showed an inhibition in trypsin and chymotrypsin activity in the insect lumen. In conclusion, these PI proteins might be suitable for insect pest management of food crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Zywnosc is the property of Polish Society of Food Technologists - Scientific Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract: Halyomorpha halys is a polyphagous insect species with an original eastern Asiatic distribution, which was recently and accidentally introduced in the USA and Europe, where it became a serious agricultural pest. Chemicals have been widely used for its control leading often to failure of IPM programmes. Several approaches aimed at pest monitoring and control are currently under investigation, for example trapping, screening, border management and biological control. In the present work, we investigated the lethal and sublethal effects of the use of a long‐lasting insecticide‐treated net (LLIN with α‐cypermethrin), focusing on the perspective to control H. halys in an integrated approach. All experiments were carried out in the laboratory either in small arenas, at five exposure times (5, 15, 30, 45 and 60 min) or in large cages at 8 hr exposure. In small arenas, the LLIN induced sublethal effects and/or effectively killed the adults. A higher adult mortality was observed after longer exposure times (LT90 was 51.64 min for females and 40.83 min for males). However, several specimens recovered from sublethal effects, with higher recovery rates after shorter exposure times. In the cage experiments, a significantly higher mortality (65% males and 75% of females) was recorded compared with controls. LLINs are physical barriers that can improve crop protection due to their insecticidal activity, and can be reasonably applied in various attract‐and‐kill systems both in glasshouses and in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable land use in agricultural landscapes is essential to counteract the global decline of biodiversity, as well to ensure ecosystem services like natural pest control. Phytoseiid mites are key natural enemies of pest mites in vineyards but how local management and landscape context affect phytoseiid mites remains poorly known. In this study, we examined the effects of farming systems, inter-row management and landscape composition on phytoseiid mite communities in 156 vineyards across five European wine-growing regions. Our results showed that phytoseiid communities were mainly dominated by one or two phytoseiid species across Europe and that local management was a major factor affecting population densities. According to the wine-growing regions, phytoseiid mite densities benefited from integrated pest management or conventional farming compared to organic farming and from spontaneous vegetation cover compared to seeded cover crops. Moreover, mite densities benefited from increasing proportions of vineyards at the landscape scale. The farming systems effects were most likely related to the positive impact of the lower pesticide use in integrated and conventional vineyards. The positive effect of spontaneous vegetation cover could be related to a better supply of nutritive pollen as food resource compared to seeded cover crops, which depends on the plant species in the inter-row. Our findings indicated accordingly that a reduced pesticide use, and inter-row management are crucial factors for promoting pest control by predatory mites in European vineyards. Moreover, the proportion of viticultural area in the landscape is a considerable factor to retain stable phytoseiid mite populations. • Local management influenced predatory mite populations across European vineyards. • Farming systems with less pesticide use favoured phytoseiid mites in vineyards. • Spontaneous vegetation in the inter-row increased predatory mite populations. • Phytoseiid mites benefitted from a higher proportion of vineyards in the landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollen beetles (Brassicogethes spp.) and stem flea beetles (Psylliodes chrysocephala) are among the main pests of oilseed rape crops in Europe, causing high yield losses. Increasing insecticide resistance and environmental concerns have highlighted the need for alternatives to chemical control, such as conservation biological control. Conservation biological control can be enhanced by providing resources to beneficial organisms in and around crop fields. Flower strips are a promising tool to provide nectar resources for parasitoids. In addition, the planting of such resources in field margins should be reinforced by the absence of insecticide application. However, the presence and amount of weeds within the field could mitigate the effect of flower strips and needs to be explored. We surveyed 25 oilseed rape fields in 2019 and 2020. Ten of these fields were adjacent to a sown wildflower strip. We compared an eco-friendly strategy (wildflower strip without insecticide in spring) to a conventional approach (no wildflower strip and chemical control of pests). We assessed the parasitism of stem flea beetle and pollen beetle larvae in the spring, at distances of 5 m and 30 m from the wildflower strip or the natural field margin. We performed botanical surveys in wildflower strips and natural field margins and within the field, to assess the availability of accessible nectar resources to parasitoids. Stem flea beetle parasitism rates were not affected by the strategy used, but the eco-friendly strategy had a weak positive effect on pollen beetle parasitism. Unexpectedly, the amount of accessible nectar did not differ significantly between wildflower strips in the eco-friendly strategy and natural herbaceous field margins in the conventional strategy. The amount of accessible nectar provided by weeds in the field was positively related only to pollen beetle parasitism rates. By contrast, the amount of accessible nectar for both spontaneous field margin and flower strips had no effect on the rates of parasitism of either species. Parasitism rate decreased significantly with decreasing distance to the field edge, for both species. Our results suggest that further studies are required: (i) to improve the composition of wildflower strips, so as to provide more accessible nectar resources at the start of spring and (ii) to explore more management strategy options, notably on in-field resources management such as unsown patches or intercropping. • We measured parasitism rates in pollen beetle and stem flea beetle. • Fields with a flower strip and without insecticide were compared to conventional one. • The eco-friendly management strategy tended to increase the pollen beetle parasitism. • For both species, parasitism rates were higher at 5 m than at 30 m from the field edge. • Weeds within the field increased parasitism rates for both species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Special Collection 'Spodoptera frugiperda (fall armyworm): Ecology and Management of its World-scale Invasion Outside of the Americas' presents reviews and research that address topics of overarching interest and contributes to a better understanding of this pest and its management, now that it has spread outside the Americas. The collection is a combination of invited articles presenting new information published for the first time, invited review papers, and a selection of relevant high-quality articles previously published in Journal of Economic Entomology (JEE). Articles in the Collection, as well as selected citations of articles in other publications, reflect the increase in research on S. frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), which became the most important pest of maize in the world during recent years. This Special Collection addresses a wide range of topics, including pest behavior, host strains, insecticide and Bt protein resistance, biological control, host plant resistance, and yield loss estimates. Topics are presented in context of research primarily conducted in regions outside of the Americas where S. frugiperda has invaded and disrupted crop production to varying degrees. In recognition of further spread, the threat of a S. frugiperda invasion into Europe and potential management options are also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of methyl bromide (MB) phase-out on important fruit and nursery industries in the EU (2005/2008) has been significant. Under EU Regulation 1107/2009, MB fumigant alternatives 1,3-dichloropropene and chloropicrin were also phased out (in 2010 and 2013, respectively) while dazomet, metam sodium, and potassium were re-approved with crucial restrictions of rates and years of application. However, currently an EU Member State may authorize use of these phased-out fumigants for 120 days/year. This exemption has been used for strawberry (fruit and nursery production) and other crops in Spain, Italy, Belgium, France, UK, Cyprus, Malta, and Greece in recent years. To provide an update of the current situation, a comprehensive survey of 41 European and other industries has been completed. Most of them use crop rotation as the main pest management solution. Non-chemical solutions, in particular soilless cultivation, are important in the UK, Ireland, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Chemical fumigation is still important in Spain, Italy, Morocco, Turkey, France, and Belgium. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Winter-active arthropod predators (like vegetation-dwelling spiders) significantly suppress pest populations during winter in pome fruit orchards in Central Europe. Clubiona spiders are very abundant in orchards and have been observed to be active during winter. Here, we performed laboratory experiments to assess the movement and predation activity of clubionids at low temperatures. In addition, we also assessed prey survival (psyllids and crickets). We revealed that Clubiona spiders actively moved even at a temperature below 0 °C. Pest prey (Cacopsylla sp.) was able to survive at low temperatures, but crickets died at 3 and -1 °C. Overall Clubiona activity was very low but present during the whole observation period of five days. The predation activity of Clubiona declined with lower temperatures for both cricket and pest (Cacopsylla sp.) prey. Nevertheless, 44% and 25% of Clubiona individuals captured and consumed psyllid and cricket prey, respectively, even at the lowest temperature of −1 °C. Our results show that Clubiona spiders are active predators at low temperatures and, therefore, should contribute to the suppression of overwintering pest populations. • Clubiona spiders are common arthropod predators in pome fruit orchards. • Clubiona spiders remain active and even capture pest prey at temperatures below 0 °C. • Therefore, Clubiona spiders have the potential to contribute to pest control during winter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ghost ant (GA), Tapinoma melanocephalum (Fabricius, 1793), is one of the most common invasive species of ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in the world. While in its native tropical region it is both an ordinary indoor and outdoor pest, it occurs only indoors in the temperate zone, where increasingly more records of this species have been published since 1887. In this study, the current distribution of GA in Europe, including the new records published since Wetterer (2009), is reviewed. Furthermore, we report the first record of GA in the Czech Republic, where a large colony of GA was discovered in a block of flats in České Budějovice in 2014, and present a case study of its eradication. The revised distribution of GA shows that despite previous concerns about the threats posed by this new pest only three other European countries (including Czech Republic) reported the presence of this species after 2009. Although GA is currently documented as occurring in 18 European countries, which were invaded mainly after 1990, there is only a single (or dubious) record for ten of these countries. Abundance of workers was monitored in two flats in an infested building using traps baited with yolk-honey and GA were subsequently eradicated with imidacloprid (0.01% w/w). The pre-treatment revealed abundances that ranged up to 524 workers per trap (mean = 99, S.D. = 142, 80% of baits occupied). Despite the initial success of the treatment (no ants observed after 3 weeks), monitoring of the building a year later revealed it was still infested with GA and in a similar rate. We suggest alternative methods of eradicating GA in the temperate zone based on studies carried out in the tropics. Our study indicates the difficulty of eradicating the species from buildings when its colony is already established. Furthermore, it highlights the bias in the discovery-probability of GA as a household pest probably due to the species cryptic appearance and lack of attention to it outside of the scientific community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato is a major crop across Europe, at risk from a wide range of introduced pests. Phytosanitary measures such as restrictions on imports of seed potatoes reduce those risks. Of the pests which have become established in Europe, some continue to spread while others are effectively controlled by quarantine measures. A number of emerging risks to European potato crops are described, including Epitrix flea beetles and ' Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum', the cause of zebra chip disease in the USA. Among the recommendations for helping to mitigate risks from these and other emerging pests are the adoption of good practice in disposal of waste and soil from potato processing, raising awareness of symptoms, targeted surveillance, prompt reporting of suspect findings and contingency planning for management of outbreaks. Effective dialogue between the potato industry and National Plant Protection Organizations is essential for the successful implementation of these measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological invasions are a leading threat to native wildlife, human health and food production worldwide. Understanding the invasion history helps identifying introduction pathways and organizing integrated management strategies especially aimed at avoiding multiple reintroductions. We coupled a recently developed spatial analysis (Geographic profiling) with trade flows quantification to identify the most likely spreading centre of a recent invader of Europe, the spotted wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii. This polyphagous vinegar fly recently colonized western countries, where it is heavily threatening fruit production causing severe economic losses. Characterized by a rapid spread and a huge impact, the invasion of this pest has a few precedents and it is becoming a model in invasion biology and pest management. Thanks to our spatial approach based on data presence of D. suzukii in European countries in the very first years of it spread, we update the current knowledge of a first spread in Spain and Italy, suggesting on the contrary that the South of France may be the most likely spreading centre of D. suzukii in Europe. Estimates of propagule pressure (fresh host fruits importation) support this finding as imports from contaminated South East Asian countries are higher in France than in Spain or Italy. Our study provides a first step in the comprehension of invasion history of this pest species and emphasizes geographic profiling as an efficient technique to track down invaders colonization patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the measures imposed by the European Union (EU) on the importation of Citrus fruit from South Africa to EU, along with the country's approach to pest management and its impact on trade. Topics include the food safety standards in the EU on products manufactured outside or within the country, trade globalisation, and the threat of Citrus Black Spot (CBS), a fungi, for citrus cultivations.