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In urban community gardens, cultivated vegetation provides variable levels of habitat complexity, which can suppress pests by promoting predator diversity and improving pest control. In this study, we examine three components of the structural complexity of garden vegetation (cover, diversity, and connectivity) to investigate whether higher garden vegetation complexity leads to fewer herbivores, more predators, and higher predation. We worked in eight community gardens where we quantified vegetation complexity, sampled the arthropod community, and measured predation on corn earworm eggs. We found that plots with high vegetation cover supported higher species richness and greater abundance of predatory insects. High vegetation cover also supported a greater abundance and species richness of spiders. In contrast, high vegetation diversity was negatively associated with predator abundance. While high predator abundance was positively associated with egg predation, greater predator species richness had a negative impact on egg predation, suggesting that antagonism between predators may limit biological control. Community gardeners may thus manipulate vegetation cover and diversity to promote higher predator abundance and diversity in their plots. However, the species composition of predators and the prevalence of interspecific antagonism may ultimately determine subsequent impacts on biological pest control.

Background: Odontotermes formosanus (Shiraki) is a highly damaging agroforestry pest. Serratia marcescens is a broad-spectrum insecticidal pathogen and is highly lethal to O. formosanus. However, little is known about the mechanism between them. To improve the biological control of pests, a more in-depth analysis of the interactions between the pests and the pathogens is essential. Results: We used RNA-seq, enzyme activity assays and real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR (qPCR) to explore the defense responses of O. formosanus against SM1. RNA-seq results showed that 1,160, 2,531 and 4,536 genes were differentially expressed at 3, 6 and 12 h after SM1 infection, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) results indicated that immune response and energy metabolism were involved in the defense of O. formosanus against SM1. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and ROS synthesis genes were significantly elevated, and the antioxidant system were induced in O. formosanus after SM1 infection. In addition, the cellular immune genes were affected, and the Toll, immune deficiency (Imd), Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT), c-Jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK) and melanization pathways were activated. In vitro, Oftermicin, an antimicrobial peptide, had a significantly inhibitory effect on SM1. Furthermore, the expression levels and enzyme activities of phosphofructokinase (PFK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) and isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) in glycolysis and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycles were increased. Conclusions: Our results clearly demonstrated that O. formosanus defended against SM1 by activating the antioxidant system, innate immunity and energy metabolism. This study would provide useful information for the development of biological controls of O. formosanus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Body size is a characteristic of many animal species that is correlated with many fitness‐related traits. Parasitoids are important biological control agents of pests; larger parasitoids often have greater fitness and enhanced performance. Host size is a major influence on parasitoid size, which has been explored in the important egg parasitoid Anastatus disparis (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae), a potential biological control agent for several Lepidopteran pests. Here, we found that the body size of A. disparis females increased with increasing host egg size, while host egg size did not significantly affect male size. In addition, both female and male offspring sizes significantly increased with increasing maternal size, and female offspring produced by younger mothers were also larger. Furthermore, the body sizes of both females and males appeared to increase when the total development time from egg to adult eclosion decreased. Male offspring produced by larger females have shorter development times, while female offspring produced by older females have longer development times. Consequently, our results suggested that the effect of maternal status on offspring size may be mediated by influencing development time. In summary, our results indicated that the body size of A. disparis is determined by multiple factors with differing effects on females and males, and our results provide guidance for its effective mass rearing and its performance in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Applied Ecology is the property of Wiley-Blackwell 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.)

Mixed cropping with legumes may mitigate negative impacts of maize, Zea mays L. (Poaceae), production on arthropods by providing additional habitat structures and food resources. Still, knowledge about effects of less common legume partner crops for mixed cropping of maize is scarce. Activity density of epigeic predatory arthropods and proxies for ecosystem functions related to biological pest control were assessed on an experimental field. Plots of mixed cropping of maize and sainfoin, Onobrychis viciifolia Scop. (Fabaceae), and respective single plant species (plot size: 6 × 5 m; n = 48) differed in combination of the seed rate of each partner crop and tillage treatment. Using the "rapid ecosystem function assessment" approach in each plot on three occasions, we tested whether the activity density of generalist arthropod predators and their associated ecosystem functions can be promoted by mixed cropping of maize with sainfoin. Our data show that, compared with tilled maize as a pure culture, mixed cropping can increase activity density of generalist arthropod predators and insect predation potential but effects were limited to strip‐tilled cropping systems and partly depended on sampling date. Thus, from an ecological viewpoint, mixed cropping of sainfoin and maize in strip‐till systems offers the possibility to promote predatory insects and their potential for pest regulation. However, this system is inherently more prone to weed occurrence. Competition effects between cropping partners and weeds may reduce yields and hence lead to trade‐offs between enhancement of arthropods and economic viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fopius arisanus (Sonan) is an important egg–pupal endoparasitic wasp of Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel). As traditional method of sorting nonparasitic B. dorsalis from parasitic wasps is labor‐intensive, requires specific equipment and poses the risk of spreading fertile hosts, the development of a more convenient, economical and safe sorting procedure is important. Results: The optimal cyromazine emergence inhibition procedure (CEIP) involved facilitating the pupation of B. dorsalis mature larvae (Bdml) in 3 mg kg−1 cyromazine sand substrate (CSS) for 48 h. When the Bdml that had been exposed to F. arisanus during the egg stage were treated with 3–7 mg kg−1 CSS for 48 h, no negative effects on the emergence parameters of parasitoids were observed. Treatment with 3–4 mg kg−1 CSS had insignificant effects on the biological and behavioral parameters of F. arisanus. However, treatment with 5–6 mg kg−1 CSS adversely affected the fecundity and antennating activity of the wasps; specifically, 6 mg kg−1 CSS negatively affected the lifespan and flight ability of wasps. Fortunately, no transgenerational effects on these parameters were observed in the progeny. Regarding the nutrient reserves of both sexes of F. arisanus, significant dose‐dependent effects were observed. Moreover, 5–6 mg kg−1 CSS significantly reduced the protein and carbohydrate content in F. arisanus; in particular, 6 mg kg−1 CSS notably reduced the lipid content. Conclusion: CEIP provides a more flexible, economical and safe mass‐release program for F. arisanus. In addition, it has profound implications for the biological control of other dipteran pests. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

The predatory mite, Typhlodromus (Typhlodromus) setubali Dosse (Acari: Phytoseiidae), is a potential natural enemy for controlling mite and insect pests in the Mediterranean basin. The objective of this study is to investigate the life history and population parameters of T. (T.) setubali feeding on Panonychus ulmi Koch and Tetranychus urticae Koch or the cattail pollen Typha latifolia L. at 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35°C with 65% (RH) and photoperiod of 16:8 (L:D). The results revealed that both tetranychid mites were satisfactory diets for T. (T.) setubali, which completed its entire life cycle on the pollen regardless of the temperature tested. When the target prey was P. ulmi, the highest fecundity was 19.32 eggs per female at 30°C (15.90 eggs on T. urticae and 11.06 eggs on T. latifolia) and the maximum of R0, rm, and λ was 14.16 offspring/individual, 0.177, and 1.194 days−1, respectively. Typha latifolia pollen can be an alternative diet for effectively mass-rearing the generalist polyphagous phytoseiid mite, T. (T.) setubali. This species can be released as a biological control agent against P. ulmi and T. urticae populations, in perfect compliance with the principles of integrated mite management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis, is a common pest in many crops worldwide. Predatory mites (Acari: Phytoseiidae) are effective predators of first-instar thrips and have been extensively used for biological control of the pest. However, the short development time of thrips larvae limits the effectiveness of thrips control. Recent studies have shown that some species of phytoseiid mites are capable of consuming thrips eggs embedded in leaf tissue, thereby extending the window for effective predation on F. occidentalis populations. In this study, we aimed to investigate the predatory ability of three phytoseiids native to Southeast Asia and one commercially available species on western flower thrips eggs and compare it with their predation on first instars of the pest. Both at 25 °C and 30 °C, the functional response of all the studied mites was type II to first instars of the thrips, whereas it shifted to type III when thrips eggs were provided. The consumption of first-instar thrips was consistently higher than that of thrips eggs. More thrips eggs were consumed at 30 °C than at 25 °C, whereas predation on larvae was minimally affected by temperature. Our research indicates the potential of the studied mites to contribute to the suppression of F. occidentalis outbreaks in Southeast Asia. The predation capacity and functional responses of adult females of the phytoseiid mites Amblyseius largoensis (Muma), Proprioseiopsis lenis (Corpuz and Rimando), Paraphytoseius cracentis (Corpuz and Rimando), and Amblyseius swirskii (Athias-Henriot) were studied on eggs and first instars of the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), in the laboratory at 25 °C and 30 °C. At both temperatures, the functional response of all four phytoseiid mites was type II to first instars of the thrips. In contrast, when offered thrips eggs, the functional response was type III. At both temperatures tested, A. swirskii had the highest mean daily consumption of first-instar F. occidentalis, followed by A. largoensis, P. cracentis, and P. lenis. Amblyseius largoensis had the shortest handling time and the highest maximum attack rate when first-instar thrips were the prey. When fed on thrips eggs, A. largoensis had the highest mean daily consumption, followed by A. swirskii, P. cracentis, and P. lenis. On thrips eggs, A. swirskii showed the shortest handling time and highest maximum attack rate. Our findings indicate that all four phytoseiids had a better ability to prey on first-instar larvae of F. occidentalis compared to thrips eggs. At 25 and 30 °C, A. largoensis was the better predator on thrips larvae, whereas A. swirskii was superior in consuming eggs of F. occidentalis. Proprioseiopsis lenis was the inferior predator on both thrips larvae and eggs compared to the other phytoseiids tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring the impact of low-temperature storage on the fitness of natural enemy insects is crucial for practical field applications because this parameter directly influences their potential for population growth and effective pest control. Eocanthecona furcellata (Wolff) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) is widely used in biological pest control. This study aimed to identify optimal storage stages, temperatures, and durations for E. furcellata to produce high-quality individuals for practical use. The quality of E. furcellata after storage was evaluated by assessing parameters such as predatory capacity and fecundity, along with age-stage, two-sex life table. The findings revealed that the adult stage was the optimal storage form for E. furcellata , and the most favorable temperature for storage was 12 °C. Adult females had the highest predatory ability after 15 days of storage at 12 °C. Although survival rates declined with prolonged storage, they remained above 50% after 30 days, and longevity, fecundity, and predatory capacity of surviving individuals remained comparable to those of individuals in the control group (rearing at a constant temperature of 26 °C without low-temperature storage). The effects of low-temperature storage extended to the F1 generation of E. furcellata , which exhibited maximum mean longevity, fecundity, net reproductive rate, and mean generation time as well as fastest population growth after 30 days of storage at 12 °C. These results can be used to achieve optimal low-temperature storage conditions for E. furcellata production, particularly for extending its shelf life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social paper wasps regularly prey upon lepidopteran larvae, some of which are economically impactful agricultural pest species. We examined the potential of native North American Polistes metricus Say (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) and Polistes fuscatus (Fabricius) for biocontrol of Brassica L. pests in an experimental setting. First, we translocated P. metricus to one-half of a divided screened hoop house and placed a mix of 4th–5th instar lepidopteran larvae (Trichoplusia ni (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), Pieris spp. Schrank (Lepidoptera: Pieridae), and Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae)) on half of the broccoli plants on both sides of the hoop house. We recorded and replaced missing caterpillars daily, and assessed leaf damage after 1 wk. P. metricus was 100% effective at removing all caterpillars from the wasp side of the hoop house, and plant damage by caterpillars was significantly reduced in the presence of wasps. We then replicated the study using a different combination of Polistes (fuscatus) and Brassica crop (kale) with a 2 × 2 experimental design in which plants had either T. ni larvae added or absent (factor 1), and were either covered with insect mesh or left exposed (factor 2). By the second day of exposure to these pest species, wasps removed over 80% of the larvae within 3 h of placing them on the plants. We discuss implications of this study for the potential use of native Polistes wasps as an integrated pest management strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Apolygus lucorum is one of the most important piercing‐sucking insect pests of the tea plant In this study, we assessed the attractiveness of basil plants to A. lucorum and the effectiveness of Ocimum gratissimum L. in the control of A. lucorum. The control efficiency of main volatile chemicals emitted from O. gratissimum flowers was also evaluated. RESULTS: Among seven basil varieties, O. gratissimum was more attractive to A. lucorum adults and was selected as a trap plant to assess its attractiveness to A. lucorum and effects on natural enemies in tea plantations. The population density of A. lucorum on trap strips of O. gratissimum in tea plantations was significantly higher than that on tea at 10–20 m away from the trap strips. Intercropping O. gratissimum with tea plants, at high‐density significantly reduced A. lucorum population levels. Eucalyptol, limonene, β‐ocimene, and linalool were the four dominant components in the O. gratissimum flower volatiles, and their emissions showed a gradual upward trend over the sampling period. Olfactometer assays indicated that eucalyptol and dodecane showed attraction to A. lucorum. High numbers of A. lucorum were recorded on limonene, eucalyptol, and myrcene‐baited yellow sticky traps in field trials in which 11 dominant volatiles emitted by O. gratissimum flowers were evaluated. CONCLUSION: Our research indicated that the aromatic plant O. gratissimum and its volatiles could attract A. lucorum and planting O. gratissimum has the potential as a pest biocontrol method to manipulate A. lucorum populations in tea plantations. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of the Nearctic predaceous stink bug species, (Perillus bioculatus) was attempted multiple times in various countries throughout Europe to mitigate the damage caused by the invasive and harmful pest species, the Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata). Though these attempts were thought to be unsuccessful for decades, more recent data elucidated that the species have established small self-sustaining populations in the Balkans Peninsula, Southern Russia, and Türkiye and recently began to expand. In the past years, the European range of the species reached Eastern Europe. After the first individuals were found in Hungary in October 2023 a citizen science campaign was launched to investigate the distribution of the species in the country. By June 2024 it became evident that the species is established throughout the country. Furthermore, observations regarding beetle larvae and moth caterpillars as alternative prey were reported supporting the previous assumptions that the naturalization and expansion of the species in Europe is facilitated by dietary drift. Here, we summarize the knowledge on the European presence of the two-spotted stink bug and formulate hypotheses regarding its future distribution and the impact of the species on the insect communities of the newly colonized areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal 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.)

Garden plants, trees and bushes suffer damages caused by lots of pests by 30-50 % every year, and sometimes by 80-90 % during the period when they grow massively. For this purpose, scientific bases for the use of perspective entomophages in the biological fight against harsh pests by studying the species composition, bioecological features of 6 species of insects, which damage garden and forest plants, and entomophages (parasites and predators), which regulate their number, have been developed in Azerbaijan. The research paper established that the oriental fruit moth infests fruit crops by 50-60 %. It was found that 22 types of parasites play a role in the regulation of abundance. Among them, macrocentrus infests oriental fruit moth larva up to 80 %, scambus up to 60 %, apanteles up to 40-50 %. The scoliidae parasite is of economic importance and can be used for biological control against the oriental fruit moth. Considering the prospects of some parasites, the bioecological features on the Absheron Peninsula have been studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, poses a significant threat to date palms globally, heavily relying on symbiotic microbes for various physiological and behavioral functions. This comprehensive study delves into the intricate dynamics of RPW gut microbiota, revealing a diverse microbial community consisting of seven genera and eight species from Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria. The stability of gut bacteria across different life stages was observed, with notable impacts on larval metabolism attributed to shifts in bacterial composition. Bacillus subtilis emerged as a key player, producing a spectrum of metabolic enzymes. Furthermore, the gut bacteria exhibited remarkable pesticide degradation capabilities, suggesting a potential role in the host's resistance to pesticides. The Arthrobacter sp. was identified as a promising candidate for eco-friendly pest biocontrol and biodegradation strategies. Investigating the influence of thermal stress on two groups of RPW larvae (conventional-fed and antibiotic-fed) at varying temperatures (15, 27, and 35 °C) unveiled potential survival implications. This study highlights the pivotal role of bacterial symbionts in enabling larvae adaptation and thermal stress tolerance. In essence, this research contributes crucial insights into the diversity and functions of RPW gut bacteria, emphasizing their prospective applications in pest control strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zoophytophagous predators can induce plant defence responses through phytophagous feeding. Since the zoophytophagous bug Orius sauteri lays eggs into plant tissues, we hypothesised that its oviposition behaviour may also induce plant defence responses with a negative impact on subsequent herbivore attacks. Pre-inoculation of O. sauteri females on tomato plants significantly reduced the fitness and reproduction of Frankliniella occidentalis, which also preferred the non-inoculated plants in indoor micro-environments. In the field, O. sauteri pre-inoculation also caused reduced population growth of F. occidentalis. All these tendencies were weaker with male compared to female O. sauteri pre-inoculation. Next, a transcriptome analysis showed that the MAPK signalling pathway, the plant hormone signal transduction and plant-pathogen interaction of defence-related pathways were significantly enriched in plants inoculated with O. sauteri females compared to untreated plants. We showed that three key genes of the JA pathway, allene oxide synthase (AOS), jasmonate ZIM-domain 2 (JAZ2), and proteinase inhibitor 1 (PI-1), were upregulated. This is evidence of plant defence activation, the likely mechanism by which O. sauteri pre-inoculation (through feeding and oviposition activities) reduced F. occidentalis fitness in the laboratory and population densities by almost three times in a greenhouse experiment. This mechanism could be promoted in IPM strategies through the early introduction of zoophytophagous biocontrol agents activating crop plant defences to enhance biological pest control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims The Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is the most widespread insect pest that causes major economic losses, especially on potatoes. Due to heavy insecticide use, this species now resists most pesticides, posing a significant control challenge. Frequent pesticide application also harms non-target organisms, the environment, and human health. Hence, utilizing biocontrol agents like entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) offers a viable alternative for pest management. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize new EPF strains isolated from soil samples and evaluate their efficacy against adult L. decemlineata under laboratory conditions. Methods and results Soil samples were collected in potato fields or uncultivated areas adjacent to the field in the Czech Republic and the EPF strains were isolated using a modified Tenebrio bait method. A total of 20 fungal strains were isolated and identified using morphological and molecular markers based on the 28S rRNA, ITS, and elongation factor 1-alpha gene sequences as Beauveria bassiana (Bals.-Criv.) Vuill. Beauveria brongniartii (Sacc.) Petch, and Cordyceps fumosorosea (Wize) Kepler, B. Shrestha & Spatafora (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae), Purpureocillium lilacinum (Thom.) Luangsa-ard, Houbraken, Hywel-Jones & Samson (Hypocreales: Ophiocordycipitaceae), Metarhizium brunneum (Petch), and Metarhizium robertsii Bisch. Rehner & Humber (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae). The bioassays revealed high variability among virulence of these strains against L. decemlineata with the shortest median time to death (LT50 = 5 days) in M. robertsii strain MAN3b. Conclusions Results shown that some EPF strains, particularly those of genera Metarhizium , can be promising biocontrol agents against the Colorado potato beetle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agricultural Resources & Environment / Nongye Ziyuan yu Huanjing Xuebao is the property of Journal of Agricultural Resources & Environment Editorial Board 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.)

Metarhizium (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae) has a multifunctional life cycle, establishing as a plant endophyte and acting as entomopathogenic fungi. Metarhizium robertsii and Metarhizium brunneum can be associated with coffee plants and provide enhanced protection against a major pest of coffee, the coffee leaf miner (CLM) (Leucoptera coffeella). This association would be an easily deployable biological control option. Here we tested the potential of inoculating coffee seeds with M. robertsii and M. brunneum collected from the soil of coffee crops in the Cerrado (Brazil) for control of the CLM and the enhancement of plant growth with a commonly used fungicide. We conducted the experiment in a greenhouse and after the seedlings grew, we placed them in a cage with two couples of CLMs. We evaluated the CLM development time, reproduction, and plant growth traits. We observed a longer development time of CLMs when fed on plants inoculated with both isolates. In addition, the CLMs laid fewer eggs compared to those fed on plants without fungal inoculation. Plant growth was promoted when seeds were inoculated with fungi, and the fungicide did not affect any evaluated parameter. Coffee seed inoculation with M. robertsii and M. brunneum appears to provide protection against CLMs and promote growth improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The biological control agent Phytoseiulus persimilis is a commercialized specialist predator of two agricultural pest mite species Tetranychus urticae and Tetranychus evansi. Biocontrol of these pest species by P. persimilis has achieved success in biological control in some areas. However, the lack of precise information about the influence of global climate change on the worldwide distribution of this biocontrol agent hampers international efforts to manage pest mites with P. persimilis. With 276 occurrence records and 19 bioclimatic variables, this study investigated the potential global distribution of P. persimilis. Results: The results demonstrated that the Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) model performed well, with the area under the curve being 0.956, indicating the high accuracy of this model. Two variables, the minimum temperature of the coldest month (Bio_6) and precipitation of the coldest quarter (Bio_19) were the most important environmental variables that influenced the distribution of P. persimilis, contributing more than 30% to the model, respectively. The suitable area currently occupies 21.67% of the world's land area, spanning latitudes between 60°S and 60°N. Under shared socio‐economic pathway (SSP) 5‐8.5 (high‐carbon emissions), the low suitable area would increase by 1.31% until the 2050s. Conclusion: This study successfully identified that south‐eastern China, parts of countries in the Mediterranean coastal regions, including Libya, Algeria, Portugal, Spain, and France, are climatically favorable regions for P. persimilis, providing valuable information about the potential areas where it can be effectively exploited as biocontrol agents in classical biological control programs to manage pest spider mites environmentally friendly. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Biological control of insect pests is encountering an unprecedented challenge in agricultural systems due to the ongoing rise in carbon dioxide (CO2) level. The use of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) in these systems is gaining increased attention, and EPF as crop endophytes hold the potential for combining insect pest control and yield enhancement of crops, but the effects of increased CO2 concentration on this interaction are poorly understood. Here, the introduction of endophytic EPF was explored as an alternative sustainable management strategy benefiting crops under elevated CO2, using maize (Zea mays), Asian corn borer (Ostrinia furnacalis), and EPF (Beauveria bassiana) to test changes in damage to maize plants from O. furnacalis, and the nutritional status (content of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), biomass, and yield of maize. RESULTS: The results showed that endophytic B. bassiana could alleviate the damage caused by O. furnacalis larvae for maize plants under ambient CO2 concentration, and this effect was enhanced under higher CO2 concentration. Inoculation with B. bassiana effectively counteracted the adverse impact of elevated CO2 on maize plants by preserving the nitrogen content at its baseline level (comparable with ambient CO2 conditions without B. bassiana). Both simultaneous effects could explain the improvement of biomass and yield of maize under B. bassiana inoculation and elevated CO2. CONCLUSION: This finding provides key information about the multifaceted benefits of B. bassiana as a maize endophyte. Our results highlight the promising potential of incorporating EPF as endophytes into integrated pest management strategies, particularly under elevated CO2 concentrations. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Bombyx mori nuclear polyhedrosis virus (BmNPV), as a typical baculovirus, is the primary pathogen that infects the silkworm B. mori, a lepidopteran species. Owing to the high biological safety of BmNPV in infecting insects, it is commonly utilized as a biological insecticide for pest control. Apoptosis is important in the interaction between the host and pathogenic microorganisms. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) influence immune responses and promote stability of the immune system via apoptosis. Therefore, the study of apoptosis‐related miRNA in silkworms during virus infection can not only provide support for standardizing the prevention and control of diseases and insect pests, but also reduce the economic losses to sericulture caused by the misuse of biological pesticides. RESULTS: Through transcriptome sequencing, we identified a miRNA, miR‐31‐5p, and demonstrated that it can inhibit apoptosis in silkworm cells and promote the proliferation of BmNPV in BmE‐SWU1 cells. We identified a target gene of miR‐31‐5p, B. mori cytochrome P450 9e2 (BmCYP9e2), and demonstrated that it can promote apoptosis in silkworm cells and inhibit the proliferation of BmNPV. Moreover, we constructed transgenic silkworm strains with miR‐31‐5p knockout and confirmed that they can inhibit the proliferation of BmNPV. CONCLUSION: These data indicate that miR‐31‐5p may exert functions of inhibiting apoptosis and promoting virus proliferation by regulating BmCYP9e2. The findings demonstrate how miRNAs influence host cell apoptosis and how they are involved in the host immune system response to viruses, providing important insights into the applications of biological insecticides for pest control. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides in mango production, can lead to crop losses of 60 %. Synthetic fungicides constitute its leading management strategy. We evaluated combinations of different management practices to control anthracnose in a commercial Tommy Atkins mango grove in 2015 and 2016. We followed a randomized complete block experimental design with a subdivided plot arrangement composed of 12 treatments, three replicates per treatment, and one mango tree per replicate for 36 trees. Pruning was practiced at plot level (with and without pruning), nutrients were applied to subplots (soil fertilizer, foliar nutrient application, and no nutrient supply), and at sub-subplot level, three anthracnose management treatments were given (chemical, biological, and no treatment). In 2015 and 2016, the treatments involving natural or biological applications against anthracnose plus nutrient supply led to the most significant reductions in quiescent leaf infections and disease presence in flowers and fruits. In addition, pruning at specific crop development stages improved results. In light of our results, this integrated anthracnose management approach in mango production can deliver the expected results if implemented consistently.

The six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle, Cheilomenes sexmaculata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), is a prevalent generalist predator in India, commonly observed on maize and wheat during the summer and winter seasons. Ladybird beetles are important natural predators of aphids and other sap-sucking pests in maize and wheat crop ecosystems. Enhancing their abundance in the field through attractants is essential for the success of augmentative biological pest control programmes. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of eight synthetic volatiles in attracting ladybird beetles using electroantennogram tests, olfactometer bioassays, and semi-field and field trials. In EAG studies, benzaldehyde and terpineol significantly triggered responses in adult males and females without any significant difference between the sexes. In dose-dependent olfactometer bioassays, at five doses (10 μg, 100 μg, 300 μg, 700 μg, and 1000 μg), C. sexmaculata adults exhibited a preference for 700 μg of benzaldehyde (74.28%) and terpineol (72.62%) over other doses. However, none of the twelve blends of these two attractive compounds showed a significant attraction to C. sexmaculata. Subsequently, all these eight synthetic semiochemicals were evaluated for ladybird beetle attraction in semi-field and field trials over different weeks. Terpineol (50.20 ± 0.31), benzaldehyde (41.67 ± 0.35), and (+)-3-carene (27.73 ± 0.33) were confirmed as attractants in semi-field trials over 3 weeks, and the same trend was noticed in the field trials over the 8 weeks. However, the attraction patterns in the field trails varied slightly between grubs and adults regarding (+)-3-carene and methyl salicylate. While adults clearly preferred (+)-3-carene over methyl salicylate, grubs showed no significant difference in attraction to these two compounds. This study lays the groundwork for developing optimal attractant formulations for C. sexmaculata, potentially enhancing the biocontrol services of this predator in its native area, such as India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The silkworm (Bombyx mori) is an important model lepidopteran insect and can be used to identify pesticide resistance‐related genes of great significance for biological control of pests. Uridine diphosphate glucosyltransferases (UGTs), found in all organisms, are the main secondary enzymes involved in the metabolism of heterologous substances. However, it remains uncertain if silkworm resistance to fenpropathrin involves UGT. This study observes significant variations in BmUGT expression among B. mori strains with variable fenpropathrin resistance post‐feeding, indicating BmUGT's role in fenpropathrin detoxification. Knockdown of BmUGT with RNA interference and overexpression of BmUGT significantly decreased and increased BmN cell activity, respectively, indicating that BmUGT plays an important role in the resistance of silkworms to fenpropathrin. In addition, fenpropathrin residues were significantly reduced after incubation for 12 h with different concentrations of a recombinant BmUGT fusion protein. Finally, we verified the conservation of UGT to detoxify fenpropathrin in Spodoptera exigua: Its resistance to fenpropathrin decreased significantly after knocking down SeUGT. In a word, UGT plays an important role in silkworm resistance to fenpropathrin by directly degrading the compound, a function seen across other insects. The results of this study are of great significance for breeding silkworm varieties with high resistance and for biological control of pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diomorus aiolomorphi Kamijo (Hymenoptera: Torymidae) is an inquiline of gall maker Aiolomorphus rhopaloides Walker (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae). They are of significant economic significance and predominantly inhabit bamboo forest. So far, only four scaffold-level genomes have been published for the family Torymidae. In this study, we present a high-quality genome assembly of D. aiolomorphi at the chromosome level, achieved through the integration of Nanopore (ONT) long-read, Illumina pair-end DNA short-read, and High-through Chromosome Conformation Capture (Hi-C) sequencing methods. The final assembly was 1,084.56 Mb in genome size, with 1,083.41 Mb (99.89%) assigned to five pseudochromosomes. The scaffold N50 length reached 224.87 Mb, and the complete Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs (BUSCO) score was 97.3%. The genome contained 762.12 Mb of repetitive elements, accounting for 70.27% of the total genome size. A total of 18,011 protein-coding genes were predicted, with 17,829 genes being functionally annotated. The high-quality genome assembly of D. aiolomorphi presented in this study will serve as a valuable genomic resource for future research on parasitoid wasps. The results of this study may also contribute to the development of biological control strategies for pest management in bamboo forests, enhancing ecological balance and economic sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing need for sustainable agricultural practices, combined with the demand for enhanced crop productivity, has led to a growing interest in utilizing microorganisms for biocontrol of diseases and pests, as well as for growth promotion. In Brazilian agriculture, the use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and plant growth-promoting fungi (PGPF) has become increasingly prevalent, with a corresponding rise in the number of registered microbial inoculants each year. PGPR and PGPF occupy diverse niches within the rhizosphere, playing a crucial role in soil nutrient cycling and influencing a wide range of plant physiological processes. This review examines the primary mechanisms employed by these microbial agents to promote growth, as well as the strategy of co-inoculation to enhance product efficacy. Furthermore, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the microbial inoculants currently available in Brazil, detailing the microorganisms accessible for major crops, and discuss the market's prospects for the research and development of novel products in light of current challenges faced in the coming years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many parasitoids alter their reproductive behaviour in response to the quality of encountered hosts. They make adaptive decisions concerning whether to parasitise a potential host, the number of eggs laid on an accepted host, and the allocation of sex to their offspring. Here we present evidence that Goniozus jacintae Farrugia (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae), a gregarious ectoparasitoid of larval tortricids, adjusts its reproductive response to the size and developmental stage of larvae of the light brown apple moth (LBAM), Epiphyas postvittana (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). Goniozus jacintae parasitises instars 3–6 of LBAM, but most readily parasitises the later, larger, instars. Brood sizes were bigger on larger hosts and brood sex ratios were female biased (proportion of males = 0.23) with extremely low variance (never >1 male in a brood at emergence), perhaps the most precise of all studied bethylids. Host size did not influence brood development time, which averaged 19.64 days, or the body size of male offspring. However, the size of females was positively correlated with host size and negatively correlated with brood size. The sizes of individual males and females were positively related to the average amount of host resource available to individuals within each brood, suggesting that adult body size is affected by scramble competition among feeding larvae. Average brood sizes were: 3rd instar host, 1.3 (SE ± 0.075); 4th instar, 2.8 (SE ± 0.18); 5th instar, 4.7 (SE ± 0.23); 6th instar, 5.4 (SE ± 0.28). The largest brood size observed was 8 individuals (7 females, 1 male) on the 6th instar of LBAM. These results suggest that later instars would give the highest yield to optimise mass-rearing of G. jacintae if used for augmentative biological pest control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Applied Ecology is the property of Wiley-Blackwell 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.)

Larvae of Hydrotaea are facultative predators of larvae of flies commonly found in poultry farms, chicken and pig waste, and decaying carcasses. One species, the black dump fly, Hydrotaea aenescens (Wiedemann, 1830), coexists with the housefly Musca domestica (Linnaeus, 1758) in these environments and has been employed in the biological control of the housefly in the USA and Germany. To assess the predatory efficacy of H. aenescens larvae on M. domestica larvae, we conducted controlled laboratory experiments in which we selected larvae of different sizes of the larvae and the densities of both predator and prey. We set up the experiment using adult flies from a poultry farm and reared the larvae they produced in our laboratory. Our findings indicate that second‐ and third‐instar H. aenescens larvae effectively suppressed populations of housefly larvae under laboratory conditions, especially when the latter was smaller or the same size as the former. Under these ideal experimental conditions, a single H. aenescens larva consumed up to 29 larvae of M. domestica, potentially leading to a complete eradication of the housefly population at predator–prey density levels of 1:1 and 1:4, but only when considering both the natural mortality rate of M. domestica larvae and the additional mortality caused by H. aenescens larvae. These results corroborate a pattern previously observed in other predatory larvae and have important implications for biological control and integrated pest management programs targeting M. domestica in poultry and swine farms across South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Looper caterpillars including the Biston (= Buzura) suppressaria (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) and Hyposidra talaca (Lepidoptera: Geometridae), are recorded as major defoliating pests in tea [Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze], are responsible for a decline in tea bush quality, a decrease in yield, and extensive foliage deterioration. The hasty and unlawful usage of chemical pesticides for looper control has adverse effects, such as the deterioration of natural soil fertility, disturbance of beneficial plant-microbe interactions, and an elevated risk of pesticide resistance. Undesired pesticide residues are frequently detected in the final tea product as pesticides have been applied to eradicate looper caterpillars in tea crop. In the current investigation, spore suspensions of two entomopathogenic fungi, Beauveria bassiana (MG547581) and Metarhizium anisopliae (MG547580), have been employed in vitro to evaluate their effectiveness in controlling three distinct stages of the life cycle of looper caterpillar. The highest rates of microbial infection and pest mortality were measured in the prepupal stage of each pest during in vitro incubation studies and bioassay. Pest mortality up to 90% was recorded with a spore load of 3 × 107 cfu/mL at the prepupal stage, while mortality in adults was up to 70% and influenced by species variations. The lowest median lethal dose (LD50) values of M. anisopliae were recorded as 1.1 × 106 (prepupae), 1.9 × 106 (pupae) and 3.2 × 106 (adult) against H. talaca and against B. suppressaria both the entomopathogens showed equal LD50 values in all distinct stages like prepupae (5.3 × 105), pupae (3.2 × 106) and adult (7.6 × 104). Further, median lethal time (LT50) values increased gradually from prepupae, and pupae to adult, both in cases of H. talaca (3.69, 3.97 and 4.40 days in 3 × 107 cfu/mL of M. anisopliae) and B. suppressaria (4.30, 4.72 and 5.34 days in 3 × 107 cfu/mL of B. bassiana) due to entomopathogenesis. As eco-friendly and nonchemical options for tea looper caterpillar management appear to be limited, the current study explores putative microbial alternatives such as B. bassiana and M. anisopliae for the sustainable management of two significant defoliating pests of tea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The cosmopolitan genus Laelius Ashmead belongs to the subfamily Epyrinae and includes 68 valid species. Members of Laelius mainly attack larvae of larder beetles (Coleoptera, Dermestidae), which are commonly known as pests of stored products. The taxonomic study of Laelius in China is far from enough, with only two species recorded. Taking account of the promising biocontrol agents for the pests of forest and stored products, the Chinese species of Laelius are revised in this study. Morphological characters and DNA barcoding with COI sequences are used for species delimitation. A new species, Laelius longus sp. nov., is described and illustrated. Three new records from China are updated. The genus Laelius from China is revised for the first time and six species are recognized, including one new species as well as three new records. The new species, Laelius longus sp. nov., which is supported by both morphological and molecular analyses, is described and illustrated. Three new records, L. naniwaensis, L. nigrofemoratus, and L. yamatonis, are illustrated. A key to the Chinese species of Laelius is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the Green Revolution's impact, many small-scale farmers continue cultivating landraces for their agronomic, culinary, and cultural values. This study, conducted in Odisha, focuses on region-specific on-farm conservation practices employed by farmers for landraces. Five focused group discussions were conducted in five villages, involving 15 landrace custodian farmers in each village of Western districts of Odisha. The Four-Square Analysis, a participatory approach, was utilized to evaluate landrace conservation practices in five villages. Principal Component Analysis and Biplot visualization were employed to analyze the relationships between practices, varieties, and conservation scores. Focused group discussion revealed that a total of 30 paddy landraces were cultivated and conserved in the sampled villages. The study identified diverse landraces such as Kalabati, Katia, and Kusum kali, each valued for unique traits and cultural significance. Paddy landraces with disease resistance, medicinal value, and economic significance were commonly cultivated in households or on a larger scale. Important agronomic practices involved organic farming, reduced fertilizer use, biological pest control, System of Rice Intensification (SRI), and bacterial culture for landrace conservation. Management practices comprised seed banks, diversity blocks, seed exchanges, and community cultivation. The findings highlight the importance of farmers' indigenous knowledge, their beliefs and cultural practices in conserving landraces. Landraces which were rare and cultivated due to cultural or social importance require special attention in conservation efforts. Incentivizing community involvement and implementing tailored strategies would be crucial for effective landrace conservation initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microbial genus Bacillus inhabits a diverse range of environments and is widespread across all global biomes, with a significant presence in soil habitats. In agriculture, Bacillus strains play multifaceted roles, serving as biocontrol agents against pests and diseases, and promoting plant growth by facilitating nutrient availability and enhancing stress tolerance. Through mechanisms such as phosphate solubilization, ACC-deaminase activity, and synthesis of phytohormones and siderophores, Bacillus spp. contribute to soil health and crop productivity, in a new approach of regenerative agriculture. The ability of Bacillus spp. to solubilize phosphate makes essential nutrients more accessible to plants, while ACC-deaminase activity helps plants withstand environmental stresses. Additionally, the synthesis of phytohormones can stimulate plant growth and development, and siderophores may facilitate the uptake of nutrients such as iron by plants. As the agricultural industry embraces Bacillus-based formulations for pest management and crop enhancement, future research holds promising prospects for optimizing their applications and harnessing their full potential in agroecosystems. Continued exploration of Bacillus spp. diversity and their interactions with plants and soil microbiota will further advance sustainable agricultural practices. This review contributes to understanding how Bacillus strains can revolutionize agriculture by enhancing soil health, increasing crop productivity, and providing effective biological solutions against pests and diseases. The successful application of Bacillus-based technologies in millions of hectares in Brazilian agriculture demonstrates the synergy between the need for more sustainable agricultural practices and the use of bio-inputs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The state of Sinaloa is known to be a large agricultural producer in Mexico. The use of pesticides in this region is in large quantities, which affects a large number of agricultural workers due to exposure to these chemicals. The objective of this work to identify the main crops, pests and pesticides used in the Irrigation District 075 for this research work a convenience sampling was carried out and 100 surveys were applied with questions related to the pests, crops and pesticides used by the workers agriculture in this region of northwestern Mexico. According to the results, the main crops planted and harvested are corn and beans, the main pests are the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) and the whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum) and the main pesticides are Tamaron and Cypermethrin. In conclusion, agricultural workers in Irrigation District 075 use pesticides considered of medium and high toxicity and have a preference for chemical control over biological control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Faced with increasing climate challenges, this pioneering study introduces groundbreaking approaches to ensure the resilience of potato crops in east-central Poland. Our research was aimed at developing an innovative, cost-effective system tailored to the diverse local conditions of this region. Conducted between 2018 and 2020, the study analyzed integrated and organic production systems across different soil types and potato varieties. The experiment was conducted using a randomized block design with three replications in two locations. Integrated production systems involve the strategic use of mineral fertilization and chemical protection to optimize crop growth and health, whereas organic production systems rely solely on natural inputs and biological pest control methods. Integrated practices, enhanced by mineral fertilization and chemical protection, notably delayed the onset of late blight by 16 days and extended the critical infection period by 17% compared to their organic counterparts. Remarkably, the integrated systems resulted in a 49% increase in total production and a 52% increase in commercial yields, demonstrating their effectiveness in enhancing crop resilience. Different potato varieties exhibit varied responses to cultivation systems, influencing both yield and disease resistance. Further investigation into these varietal responses can help optimize cultivation practices, leading to improved efficiency and sustainability in potato farming. Location and soil conditions have a significant impact on potato yield and the spread of potato blight. Specific soil properties such as pH levels, organic matter content, soil texture (clay, silt, and sand composition), moisture retention capacity, and nutrient availability are crucial in determining potato productivity and disease dynamics. Further research into these soil properties and the adaptation of varieties to local conditions can contribute to increased productivity and stability in potato production. This study not only paves the way toward sustainable agriculture but also highlights the crucial role of soil diversity in shaping resilient farming practices. Potato producers in the eastern-central region of Poland should implement integrated production systems using mineral fertilization and chemical plant protection, adapted to local soil conditions and potato varieties. These practices can delay the appearance of late blight and increase the total and marketable potato yield. Further research on soil properties and variety adaptation may increase production stability and efficiency. Promoting soil diversity and modern technologies will ensure resilient and sustainable agricultural production in the face of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista de la Sociedad Entomológica Argentina is the property of Sociedad Entomologica Argentina 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.)

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) production in Ethiopia has been seriously constrained by the insect pest, Helicoverpa armigera. Insecticides have been used for decades to control this noxious pest. However, the restriction on chemical insecticides necessitates biological pest control alternatives. Therefore, the present study investigated the effectiveness of native Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) isolates against Helicoverpa armigera 3rd instar larvae. The treatments consisted of Bt concentrations at the LD90 values, whereas the control plots were sprayed with distilled water and a commercial Bt. var. thuringiensis product. The results revealed statistically (p < 0.05) significant differences between the native Bt isolates and the control plots. Post 1st, pre 2nd and post 2ndBt sprayed larval populations counted per plant ranged from 0.8 ± 0.3–3.1 ± 0.1, 0.6 ± 0.1–3.6 ± 0.0 and 0.5 ± 0.1–3.6 ± 0.4, respectively. Pod damage (%) and grain yield (t/ha) ranged between 9.7 ± 3.1 and 47.5 ± 9.5, 1.0 ± 0.0 and 2.6 ± 0.5, respectively compared to 47.5 ± 9.5% pod damage and 1.0 ± 0.0 (t/ha) grain yield from the control plots. These results indicate the potential of these bio-insecticides in the management of chickpea pod borer. Future research in Ethiopia should focus on additional collection, screening, characterisation, and testing in field trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we report the presence of Cybocephalus nipponicus Endrödy-Younga, 1971 from Iran, which has been collected on mulberry in Gilan province, as well as on bitter orange and Japanese spindle in Mazandaran province, northern Iran. The specimens were collected while feeding on scale insects, Pseudaulacaspis pentagona (Targioni Tozzetti, 1886), Unaspis euonymi (Comstock, 1881) and Lepidosaphes gloveri (Packard, 1869) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae). Photos of habitus and genitalia with some taxonomic comments are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on a nonlinear deterministic mathematical model for coffee berry borer (Hypothenemus hampei) with temperature and rainfall variability. In the model analysis, CBB free and coexistence equilibria are computed. The basic reproduction numbers at a minimum and maximum temperature and rainfall are derived. The qualitative analysis of the model revealed the scenario for equilibria together with basic reproduction numbers. The local stability of equilibria is established through the Jacobian matrix and the Routh–Hurwitz criteria, while the global stability of equilibria is demonstrated using an appropriate Lyapunov function. The normalized sensitivity analysis has also been performed to observe the impact of different parameters on basic reproduction numbers. The proposed model is extended into an optimal control problem by incorporating two control variables, namely, the preventive measure variable based on the separation of susceptible coffee berries from contacting the pests based on biological control and an increase in the death rate of colonizing females of CBB based on chemical control. Optimal disease control analysis is examined using Pontryagin's minimum principle. Finally, the numerical simulations are performed based on analytical results and are discussed quantitatively. Furthermore, the cost-effectiveness of control strategies to determine the best approach to minimize the CBB burden was studied. The study is significant in providing reliable information on how one can use mathematical modeling to improve the roles of control strategies and prevention in CBB transmission in a coffee farm. The outcome of the study may guide public agriculture policymakers on optimal control strategies to control the pests. In particular, using chemical pesticides is very effective to combat pests with minimum costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi, a common predator in agricultural ecosystems, exhibits significant potential for biological pest control. Study investigated the functional response of C. zastrowi sillemi to Brevicorynae brassicae, a destructive pest of cruciferous crops through laboratory experiments and field observations. Analysed the predatory behaviour of C. zastrowi sillemi in response to varying densities of B. brassicae. The functional response curves are constructed to elucidate the relationship between predator consumption rate and prey density. Factors influencing the predatory efficiency, including prey density, predator handling time, and environmental conditions, are comprehensively evaluated. The findings provided valuable insights into the potential of predator as a biological control agent against B. brassicae infestations, facilitating the development of sustainable pest management strategies in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi, a common predator in agricultural ecosystems, exhibits significant potential for biological pest control. Study investigated the functional response of C. zastrowi sillemi to Brevicorynae brassicae, a destructive pest of cruciferous crops through laboratory experiments and field observations. Analysed the predatory behaviour of C. zastrowi sillemi in response to varying densities of B. brassicae. The functional response curves are constructed to elucidate the relationship between predator consumption rate and prey density. Factors influencing the predatory efficiency, including prey density, predator handling time, and environmental conditions, are comprehensively evaluated. The findings provided valuable insights into the potential of predator as a biological control agent against B. brassicae infestations, facilitating the development of sustainable pest management strategies in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Southwest China Journal of Agricultural Sciences is the property of Editorial Department of Southwest China Journal of Agricultural Sciences 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.)

Simple Summary: Quinoa is an Andean grain that has gained global popularity due to its nutritional properties. The production area has expanded outside its Andean origins and the crop is now produced worldwide. However, new emerging pests cause serious problems in the crop and limit its production. This review discusses the status of the pests of quinoa in the world and the agricultural strategies implemented in the framework of integrated pest management (IPM). The literature regarding sampling methodologies for pest monitoring, determining economic threshold levels, cultural practices, and chemical and biological control is summarized, and a critical perspective on establishing IPM in quinoa is given. Since ancestral times, quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) has been cultivated in the Andean regions. Recently, this pseudocereal has received increasing international attention due to its beneficial properties, such as adaptation and resilience in the context of global change, and the nutritional value of the grains. As a result, its production areas have not only increased in the highlands of South America but have also expanded outside of its Andean origins, and the crop is currently produced worldwide. The key pests of quinoa in the Andean region are the gelechiid moths Eurysacca melanocampta and Eurysacca quinoae; in other parts of the world, new pest problems have recently been identified limiting quinoa production, including the gelechiid Scrobipalpa atripicella in North America and Europe and the agromyzid fly Amauromyza karli in North America. In this review, the status of quinoa pests in the world is presented, and different aspects of their integrated management are discussed, including sampling methodologies for pest monitoring, economic threshold levels, and various control strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The use of oophagous species from the genus Trichogramma—small wasp—in the control of pest species, both in agriculture and forestry, is the most important example of this type of control because of the area in which it is implemented. They are called parasitoids because the female seeks out the host—the pest species—from which its offspring feed and develop. Until now, this mechanism of action was thought to be due to the parasitism relationships established between the immature stages of the parasitoid and its host; however, it has been shown that the directed 'host-feeding' mechanism of the adult mothers, acting as predators, plays a very important ecological role. This proves that there are much more complex parasitoid–parasitoid relationships than predator–predator relationships. This has implications for the current state of knowledge and can be applied in biological control involving parasitoid species. Over recent decades, intraguild predation (IGP) has attracted special attention, both from the theoretical and practical standpoints. The present paper addresses the interference competition between two Trichogramma species (egg parasitoids)—on the one hand, the extrinsic interactions (i.e., the indirect competition between female T. achaeae and T. brassicae), and on the other, the intrinsic interactions between the larvae of both species. Furthermore, T. achaeae is a better competitor than T. brassicae due to a dual mechanism—the former acts as a facultative hyperparasitoid of the latter, exclusively considering parasitism relationships as well as presenting predation activity by host feeding, which gives preference to eggs previously parasitized by T. brassicae over non-parasitized eggs. Both mechanisms are dependent on the prey density, which is demonstrated by a change in the functional response (i.e., the relationship between the numbers of prey attacked at different prey densities) of T. achaeae adult female—it changes from type II (i.e., initial phase in which the number of attacked targets increases hyperbolically and then reaches an asymptote, reflecting the handling capacity of the predator), in the absence of competition (an instantaneous search rate of a′ = 9.996 ± 4.973 days−1 and a handling time of Th = 0.018 ± 0.001 days), to type I (i.e., linear increase in parasitism rate as host densities rise, until reaching a maximum parasitism rate, and an instantaneous search rate of a′ = 0.879 ± 0.072 days−1 and a handling time of Th ≈ 0) when interference competition is present. These results show that there is a greater mortality potential of this species, T. achaeae, in conditions of competition with other species, T. brassicae in this case. Based on this, their implications in relation to the biological control of pests by parasitoid species are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The selection of an appropriate diet is a key component of methods for the mass rearing of biocontrol agents. It is known that feeding on mixed, alternating, or changing foods often favor insect development. We investigated the effects of various combinations of high-quality (the green peach aphid) and low-quality (eggs of the grain moth) foods on the development of a predatory ladybird Cheilomenes propinqua. The benefits of mixed foods to larval development were only found in some treatments with limited supplies of aphids. Feeding on various combined diets never resulted in higher survival, faster development, or a larger size of emerging adults than those observed for feeding on unlimited amounts of aphids. We conclude that if necessary (for example, in the case of temporary shortage or a lack of aphids in mass rearing facilities or in the case of preventing release of adults for biological control of pests in greenhouses), C. propinqua larvae can be fed with grain moth eggs by replacing, mixing, or alternating with aphids, although this will result in a decrease in pre-adult survival, rate of development, and the size of emerging adults. On the other hand, even a minimal addition of aphids can have a substantial positive effect on larvae fed with grain moth eggs. Feeding on mixed, alternating, or changing diets often favor insect development. With the aim to optimize mass rearing and use for the biological control of insect pests, we investigated the effects of various combinations of high-quality (the green peach aphid Myzus persicae) and low-quality (eggs of the grain moth Sitotroga cerealella) foods on the larval development of a predatory ladybird Cheilomenes propinqua. In the first experiment, eggs and aphids were mixed in different proportions; in the second experiment, larvae switched from feeding on aphids to feeding on eggs. Although the beneficial additive effect of mixed foods was detected in some treatments with limited diets, feeding on various combinations of eggs with aphids never resulted in higher survival, faster development, or a larger size of emerging adults than those observed for feeding on unlimited amounts of aphids. For the practice of biological control, we conclude that, if necessary (for example, in the case of temporary shortage or a lack of aphids in mass rearing facilities or in the case of preventing release of C. propinqua adults in greenhouses), C. propinqua larvae can be fed with grain moth eggs by replacing, mixing, or alternating with aphids, although this will inevitably result in a proportional decrease in pre-adult survival, rate of development, weight, and size of the emerging adults. On the other hand, even a minimal addition of aphids can have a substantial positive effect on larvae fed with grain moth eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Management strategies targeting invasive pests of agricultural crops have relied heavily on the application of synthetic insecticides. However, sustainable pest management approaches and tools are being effectively implemented. The use of microbials, botanicals, and other natural-based substances alone or in combination with natural enemies is a promising approach. In this context, in the laboratory, we studied the potential synergistic or antagonistic effects in pest control of various biopesticides with Ganaspis kimorum and Necremnus tutae, two major parasitoids of the spotted wing Drosophila and the South American tomato pinworm, respectively. Drosophila suzukii and Tuta absoluta are successful biological invaders of agroecosystems. Their integrated pest management (IPM) programs involve the release and/or conservation of natural enemies. Among these, Ganaspis kimorum is a major Asian parasitoid of D. suzukii and has been introduced as a classical biological control agent of this pest in Europe and North America, while Necremnus tutae is a key fortuitous parasitoid of T. absoluta in the Mediterranean region. Bioinsecticides represent key alternatives to chemicals for controlling both pests. This study investigated the potential compatibility of both parasitoids with Beauveria bassiana, Bacillus thuringiensis, garlic essential oil (EO), and spinosad, in comparison to two synthetic insecticides, cyantraniliprole and chlorantraniliprole. The results showed that combining each of the tested insecticides with G. kimorum slightly increased pest mortality compared to the insecticide alone. Necremnus tutae had a significant additive effect on host mortality when combined with insecticides. Beauveria bassiana and B. thuringiensis were most compatible with both parasitoid species. Both garlic EO and chlorantraniliprole impaired the survival of immature N. tutae and showed sublethal toxicity on the reproductive and non-reproductive behaviors of N. tutae. Spinosad exhibited high acute toxicity on both juvenile and adult parasitoids of both species. Overall, these findings provide useful insights into insecticide selectivity toward two key parasitoids and offer new knowledge on the potential of combining natural enemies and bioinsecticides for optimized IPM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]