Insects

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24 pages, 1883 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Multi-Scale Vision–Sensor Collaborative Framework for Small-Target Insect Pest Management

by Chongyu Wang, Yicheng Chen, Shangshan Chen, Ranran Chen, Ziqi Xia, Ruoyu Hu and Yihong Song

Insects 2026, 17(3), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects17030281 - 4 Mar 2026

Viewed by 622

Abstract

In complex agricultural production environments, small-target pests—characterized by tiny scales, strong background confusion, and close dependence on environmental conditions—pose major challenges to precise monitoring and green pest control. To facilitate the transition from experience-driven to data-driven pest management, a multi-scale vision–sensor collaborative recognition [...] Read more.

In complex agricultural production environments, small-target pests—characterized by tiny scales, strong background confusion, and close dependence on environmental conditions—pose major challenges to precise monitoring and green pest control. To facilitate the transition from experience-driven to data-driven pest management, a multi-scale vision–sensor collaborative recognition method is proposed for field and protected agriculture scenarios to improve the accuracy and stability of small-target pest recognition under complex conditions. The method jointly models multi-scale visual representations and pest ecological mechanisms: a multi-scale visual feature module enhances fine-grained texture and morphological cues of small targets in deep networks, alleviating feature sparsity and scale mismatch, while environmental sensor data, including temperature, humidity, and illumination, are introduced as priors to modulate visual features and explicitly incorporate ecological constraints into the discrimination process. Stable multimodal fusion and pest category prediction are then achieved through a vision–sensor collaborative discrimination module. Experiments on a multimodal dataset collected from real farmland and greenhouse environments in Linhe District, Bayannur City, Inner Mongolia, demonstrate that the proposed method achieves approximately 93.1% accuracy, 92.0% precision, 91.2% recall, and a 91.6%

F_{1}

-score on the test set, significantly outperforming traditional machine learning approaches, single-scale deep learning models, and multi-scale vision baselines without environmental priors. Category-level evaluations show balanced performance across multiple small-target pests, including aphids, thrips, whiteflies, leafhoppers, spider mites, and leaf beetles, while ablation studies confirm the critical contributions of multi-scale visual modeling, environmental prior modulation, and vision–sensor collaborative discrimination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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13 pages, 1529 KB

Open AccessArticle

Functional Characterization of CaSpr2 in Jasmonate-Dependent Induced Defense Against Western Flower Thrips in Capsicum annuum

by Xi Chen, Shuo Lin, Tingting Linghu, Yun Yu, Heng Li, Yixin Chen, Hui Wei and Yong Chen

Insects 2026, 17(2), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects17020152 - 30 Jan 2026

Viewed by 559

Abstract

Insect infestation poses a significant threat to global agriculture by impairing plant growth and reducing crop yields. The western flower thrip (WFT) causes substantial damage through both direct feeding and transmission of plant viruses. Although the jasmonic acid (JA) signaling pathway is known [...] Read more.

Insect infestation poses a significant threat to global agriculture by impairing plant growth and reducing crop yields. The western flower thrip (WFT) causes substantial damage through both direct feeding and transmission of plant viruses. Although the jasmonic acid (JA) signaling pathway is known to participate in plant defense against WFTs, the underlying molecular mechanisms in non-model crops such as peppers, remain largely elusive. This study investigates the role of suppressor of prosystemin-mediated responses2 (Spr2) within JA-mediated defense against WFTs in pepper. Through an integrated approach employing virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS), transcription analysis, phytohormone quantification, insect behavior assays and life history investigations, we demonstrated that silencing CaSpr2 significantly reduced JA and JA-Ile accumulation, and led to a strong feeding preference of WFTs for CaSpr2-silenced plants. Furthermore, the adult lifespan, survival rate, female fecundity, oviposition rate, and population parameters of WFTs were significantly improved on CaSpr2-silenced plants. Spr2 functions as an essential component within the JA signaling pathway, thereby playing a critical role in conferring resistance to WFTs in cultivated pepper. These findings provide profound insights and practical implications for breeding thrips-resistant cultivars in non-model plants, through genetic manipulation of JA signaling, offering a promising avenue for sustainable agricultural pest management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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18 pages, 571 KB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating Major Infestation Routes of Several Key Thrips Species (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in Greenhouse-Grown Chrysanthemums in Ontario, Canada

by Ashley Summerfield, Sarah E. Jandricic, Rosemarije Buitenhuis and Cynthia D. Scott-Dupree

Insects 2026, 17(2), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects17020144 - 27 Jan 2026

Viewed by 676

Abstract

Western flower thrips (WFT; Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande)) is a major pest of greenhouse ornamental crops in Ontario, Canada, and recent surveys indicate onion thrips (OT; Thrips tabaci Lindeman) is becoming increasingly prevalent. This study investigates primary routes of entry for WFT and OT [...] Read more.

Western flower thrips (WFT; Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande)) is a major pest of greenhouse ornamental crops in Ontario, Canada, and recent surveys indicate onion thrips (OT; Thrips tabaci Lindeman) is becoming increasingly prevalent. This study investigates primary routes of entry for WFT and OT in the Niagara region of Ontario. Imported plant material (chrysanthemum cuttings) was sampled from 2016 to 2019 to confirm thrips presence and species identity. Entry from outside was evaluated from June to November in 2019 at three commercial greenhouses that produced chrysanthemums year-round with a mix of vegetative, budding, and flowering plants present. Sticky cards were mounted inside and outside from June to November, and plant taps were conducted bi-weekly to evaluate thrips establishment in the crop. Cuttings consistently harboured thrips, averaging 0.04 thrips per cutting. In 2019, all but one adult specimen collected on cuttings were WFT, confirming this is an important route of entry for WFT. Onion thrips were not found on cuttings but was prevalent on cards both outside and inside greenhouses. More OT was caught on outside cards and a significant correlation between inside and outside cards (Efron’s pseudo-R² = 0.64) indicates outside populations are a likely source of OT. Additionally, eastern flower thrips (EFT; Frankliniella tritici Fitch) was abundant on cards, but uncommon in the crop. Indoor cards were poor indicators of species composition within the crop, significantly underrepresenting WFT by 71% and overrepresenting EFT by 246%, compared to plant taps. These findings support the use of cutting dips for imported cuttings, in addition to physical control measures to reduce infestation from outdoor populations. This study also highlights the importance of plant inspections for gathering accurate data when making pest management decisions as sticky cards alone may not reliably reflect thrips populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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18 pages, 950 KB

Open AccessArticle

Selected Essential Oils Act as Repellents Against the House Cricket, Acheta domesticus

by Torben K. Heinbockel, Rasha O. Alzyoud, Shazia Raheel and Vonnie D. C. Shields

Insects 2026, 17(1), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects17010106 - 16 Jan 2026

Viewed by 743

Abstract

The house cricket, Acheta domesticus, is found globally. It is an agricultural pest causing economic damage to a wide variety of crops including cereal seedlings, vegetable crops, fruit plants, and stored grains. Additionally, crickets act as mechanical vectors of pathogens by harboring [...] Read more.

The house cricket, Acheta domesticus, is found globally. It is an agricultural pest causing economic damage to a wide variety of crops including cereal seedlings, vegetable crops, fruit plants, and stored grains. Additionally, crickets act as mechanical vectors of pathogens by harboring bacteria, fungi, viruses, and toxins, causing foodborne illnesses. They can contaminate stored grains, packaged foods, or animal feed due to deposition of their feces, lowering the quality of the food and creating food safety risks. Synthetic insect repellents, such as pyrethroids and carbamates, have been used previously in integrated pest management practices to control crickets. Though successful as repellents, they have been associated with health and environmental risks and concerns. The use of organic green repellents, such as plant essential oils, may be a viable alternative in pest management practices. In this study, we tested the effects of 27 plant-based essential oils on the behavior of A. domesticus. A. domesticus were introduced into an open arena to allow them unrestricted movement. A transparent plastic bottle containing an essential oil treatment was placed in the arena to allow voluntary entry by the crickets. Following a predetermined observation period, the number of crickets that entered the bottle was recorded, and percent entry was calculated as the proportion of individuals inside the bottle relative to the total number in the arena. Analysis of the percentage entry into the bottles allowed for a comparative assessment of repellency of the selected essential oils examined in this study. Essential oils that elicited high levels of entry into the bottle were categorized as having weak or no repellency, while those that demonstrated reduced entry were classified as moderate or strong repellents. Our results indicated that A. domesticus responded with strong repellent behavior to nearly half of the essential oils tested, while four essential oils and two synthetic repellents evoked no significant repellent responses. Four strong repellent essential oils, namely peppermint, rosemary, cinnamon, and lemongrass, were tested at different concentrations and showed a clear dose-dependent repellent effect. The results suggest that selected essential oils can be useful in the development of more natural “green” insect repellents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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19 pages, 14451 KB

Open AccessArticle

Nanomaterial-Mediated RNAi Targeting Chitin Metabolism Genes in MEAM1 Cryptic Species of Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)

by Dejun Kong, Huarong Gu, Yinglu Gao, Yangnan Hou and Jigang Li

Insects 2026, 17(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects17010002 - 19 Dec 2025

Viewed by 719

Abstract

The whitefly Bemisia tabaci is a globally invasive pest that threatens crop production through feeding and virus transmission. In this study, we identified genes encoding enzymes in the chitin metabolism pathway of B. tabaci—β-N-acetylglucosaminidase (BtNAG), N-acetylglucosamine kinase (BtNAGK), phosphoacetylglucosamine mutase (BtPAGM), UDP-N-acetylglucosamine [...] Read more.

The whitefly Bemisia tabaci is a globally invasive pest that threatens crop production through feeding and virus transmission. In this study, we identified genes encoding enzymes in the chitin metabolism pathway of B. tabaci—β-N-acetylglucosaminidase (BtNAG), N-acetylglucosamine kinase (BtNAGK), phosphoacetylglucosamine mutase (BtPAGM), UDP-N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase (BtUAP), and glucosamine-6-phosphate N-acetyltransferase (BtGNA)—using bioinformatic analysis. Quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) analyses revealed distinct stage-specific expression patterns for these genes. We used the nanomaterial star polycation (SPc) to deliver gene-specific double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) targeting these genes to fourth instar B. tabaci nymphs, which resulted in significant mortality and developmental defects upon gene silencing. Notably, the fusion dsRNA targeting three genes—BtNAG1, BtNAGK, and BtUAP—achieved approximately 80% nymph mortality, 70% inhibition of adult emergence, and an earlier onset of gene silencing. These findings provide evidence that nanomaterial-assisted delivery of dsRNA can significantly enhance RNAi effects in hemipteran pests and that dsRNA targeting chitin metabolic genes may be an effective strategy for RNAi-based control of B. tabaci. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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21 pages, 3723 KB

Open AccessArticle

Acoustic Detection of Forest Wood-Boring Insects Under Co-Infestations

by Qi Jiang, Yujie Liu, Yu Sun, Lili Ren and Youqing Luo

Insects 2025, 16(12), 1241; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16121241 - 8 Dec 2025

Viewed by 932

Abstract

Acoustic detection technology has emerged as a promising, non-destructive and continuous monitoring method for pest early detection at the single tree level. However, field application still encounters problems, especially under complex infestation scenarios, i.e., co-infestations by multiple pest species. This study aims to [...] Read more.

Acoustic detection technology has emerged as a promising, non-destructive and continuous monitoring method for pest early detection at the single tree level. However, field application still encounters problems, especially under complex infestation scenarios, i.e., co-infestations by multiple pest species. This study aims to develop a novel acoustic-based recognition model for detecting forest wood-boring pests, specially designed to enhance monitoring accuracy under complex infestation scenarios. We collected feeding vibration signals from four wood-boring pests: Semanotus bifasciatus, Phloeosinus aubei, Agrilus planipennis, and Streltzoviella insularis. Three infestation scenarios were designed: single-species, co-infestation without mixed signals, and co-infestation with mixed signals. Three machine learning (ML) models (Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, and Artificial Neural Network) based on seven acoustic feature variables, and three deep learning (DL) models (AlexNet, ResNet, and VGG) using spectrograms were employed to classify the signals. Results showed that ML models achieved perfect accuracy (OA: 100%, Kappa: 1) in single-species scenarios but declined significantly under co-infestation scenarios with mixed signals. In contrast, DL models, particularly ResNet, maintained high accuracy (OA: 85.0–88.75%) and effectively discriminated mixed signals. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the superiority of spectrogram-based DL models for acoustic detection under complex infestation scenarios and provides a foundation for developing a general, real-time detection model for integrated pest management in forest ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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13 pages, 1261 KB

Open AccessArticle

Efficacy of Hermetic Bags in Preserving Canary Beans and Purple Maize Quality in Arequipa, Peru

by Katherine Coronel-Rojas, Dieudonne Baributsa, Sonia J. Zanabria-Galvez, Jorge R. Díaz-Valderrama and Victor H. Casa-Coila

Insects 2025, 16(12), 1240; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16121240 - 8 Dec 2025

Viewed by 515

Abstract

Purple maize and canary beans are economically important crops in Peru, grown for domestic and international markets. However, postharvest storage losses are a major challenge along the value chain due to insect pests. This study evaluated the efficacy of the Purdue Improved Crop [...] Read more.

Purple maize and canary beans are economically important crops in Peru, grown for domestic and international markets. However, postharvest storage losses are a major challenge along the value chain due to insect pests. This study evaluated the efficacy of the Purdue Improved Crop Storage (PICS) and polypropylene (PP) bags in storing both crops in the Arequipa region, Peru. Oxygen and CO₂ levels were monitored every month. Insect pests, germination rates, sugar content, peroxide index, moisture content, and colony-forming units (CFU) were measured at the start and nine months after storage to determine the level of grain deterioration. PICS maintained a hypoxic environment that suppressed insect development and limited grain damage and weight loss to below 1%. In contrast, PP bags allowed infestations to escalate, resulting in weight losses of about 20% for each crop. Germination declined markedly in PP for both crops; in PICS, it remained high for purple maize (87.5%) but fell substantially for canary beans (20.8%). Moisture rose modestly in PICS, yet deterioration markers, including sugar content and peroxide index, were lower than in PP bags. Although Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium were detected in purple maize across both systems, mold loads were far lower in PICS. Overall, hermetic storage in PICS bags is effective in reducing postharvest losses and preserving important quality characteristics of beans and maize in Peru. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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21 pages, 6436 KB

Open AccessArticle

Limiting Onion Fly (Delia antiqua) and Onion Thrips (Thrips tabaci) Damage to Onions by Combined Use of Environmentally Acceptable Control Methods: Fact or Fantasy?

by Tanja Bohinc and Stanislav Trdan

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1097; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111097 - 27 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1308

Abstract

In a two-year study (2023–2024), field experiments were conducted at a location where onion fly (Delia antiqua [Meigen]) and onion thrips (Thrips tabaci Lindeman) are permanent pests. The objective of the study was to investigate independent and combined application (synergistic effect) [...] Read more.

In a two-year study (2023–2024), field experiments were conducted at a location where onion fly (Delia antiqua [Meigen]) and onion thrips (Thrips tabaci Lindeman) are permanent pests. The objective of the study was to investigate independent and combined application (synergistic effect) of environmentally acceptable methods (biological and biotechnical control methods) of controlling these pests on onions. Seven treatments were tested, including a positive control (chemical control) and a negative control (untreated plots), as well as various combinations of environmentally friendly approaches, such as entomopathogenic fungi and nematodes, white clover intercropping, and colored sticky boards with lures. The onion fly caused greater damage and subsequent bulb loss than the onion thrips in both years, despite white clover (as independent application) as an intercrop, and the combined application of white clover and entomopathogens proved to be most effective against thrips and fly damage, ultimately resulting in a suboptimal onion yield of less than 7 tons per hectare annually. It is evident that environmentally acceptable control methods were experiencing challenges in either reducing the extent of damage caused by both pests or increasing the yield of healthy bulbs. It is unfortunate that, despite observing an increased yield of healthy bulbs in certain treatments, a significant quantity of bulbs was also lost due to onion fly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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13 pages, 2486 KB

Open AccessArticle

RNAi of vATPasea Affects Survival and Larval-Pupal Development in Plutella xylostella

by Xuetao Yu, Jinhua Luo, Lin Lu, Li Zhu, Siyuan Wang, Kang Yang, Xia Wan, Yuhua Wu, Boboev Akmal, Gang Wu, Xiaohong Yan and Chenhui Shen

Insects 2025, 16(10), 1054; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16101054 - 16 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1022

Abstract

The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella, is a major pest of brassica vegetables and oilseed crops, posing a serious threat to China’s grain and oil production. RNA interference (RNAi) has been developed as an efficient strategy to control pests. In this study, the [...] Read more.

The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella, is a major pest of brassica vegetables and oilseed crops, posing a serious threat to China’s grain and oil production. RNA interference (RNAi) has been developed as an efficient strategy to control pests. In this study, the effects of RNAi on P. xylostella were evaluated by injecting two doses of synthesized dsPxvATPasea. The transcripts of PxvATPasea were widely transcribed during different developmental stages from egg to adult. They were abundantly expressed in the hindgut and Malpighian tubules, compared with other tissue types. Introduction of 800 ng dsPxvATPasea in the fourth-instar larvae greatly reduced corresponding mRNA levels by 3.1 and 1.4 times on day 2 and 3, respectively, causing 66.6% mortality and 33.4% treated larvae pupated. Silencing PxvATPasea by injecting 1200 ng dsRNA significantly decreased the expression level by 5.0 and 2.0 times on the second and third day, leading to 79.2% larval lethality and 20.8% depleted larvae pupated. Moreover, introducing 800 ng or 1200 ng dsPxvATPasea finally reduced larval fresh weight by 22.1% and 28.8%, respectively. The results indicated that the silencing efficiency of PxvATPasea worked in a dose-dependent way. Consequently, PxvATPasea is a potential molecular target gene. Our findings will facilitate the application of RNAi technology to manage P. xylostella. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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13 pages, 1714 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mating Disruption with Biodegradable Dispensers Complemented with Insecticide Sprays Allows an Effective Management of Tuta absoluta in Greenhouse Tomatoes

by Luigi Sannino, Giovanni Benelli, Giulio Piccirillo, Angelo Canale and Andrea Lucchi

Insects 2025, 16(10), 1035; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16101035 - 9 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1593

Abstract

IPM approaches based on pheromone-based techniques for the management of the South American tomato pinworm, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), are of great interest. We evaluated the effectiveness of mating disruption (MD) experiments against T. absoluta using a biodegradable pheromone dispenser (Isonet-T TT [...] Read more.

IPM approaches based on pheromone-based techniques for the management of the South American tomato pinworm, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), are of great interest. We evaluated the effectiveness of mating disruption (MD) experiments against T. absoluta using a biodegradable pheromone dispenser (Isonet-T TT BIOX234) in greenhouse-grown tomatoes over two years in southern Italy. A base treatment alternating the most used insecticides for the pest, i.e., the farmer treatment schedule (FTS), was assigned as a reference, and two MD dispenser densities (i.e., 300 and 500 dispensers/ha) were compared with the MD commercial product Isonet T at 1000 units/ha. We conducted two trials on crops at a density of 37,000 plants/ha. Pest flights were monitored in summer–autumn 2023 and 2024 with pheromone-baited Delta traps. The FTS ensured a generally low level of T. absoluta attacks (about 1 leaflet/leaf and 1/300 fruits). Even so, mating disruption resulted in further appreciable reductions in the presence and attacks of the target pest: 89%, 76% and 52% fewer catches; 61%, 45% and 37% fewer mined leaflets; and 76%, 59% and 54% fewer attacked fruits, for Isonet-T TT 500, Isonet-T TT 300 and Isonet T 1000, respectively. Overall, MD biodegradable dispensers could be a valuable tool for controlling T. absoluta in greenhouse-grown tomatoes, while also reducing plastic waste in the agricultural setting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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17 pages, 1534 KB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Telenomus remus (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) Adoption: Contribution of Different Egg Parasitoid Densities, Fed Adults, and Their Storage for Successful Biological Control of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

by Weidson P. Sutil, Adeney de F. Bueno, Leonardo Roswadoski, Rafael S. Iasczczaki, Gabriel S. Carneiro and Yelitza C. Colmenarez

Insects 2025, 16(10), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16101032 - 6 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1666

Abstract

Egg parasitoids, such as Telenomus remus (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae), face significant challenges after release, as their pupae are exposed to various mortality factors that reduce the efficiency of biological control programs. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate a honey-solid diet that can feed adults [...] Read more.

Egg parasitoids, such as Telenomus remus (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae), face significant challenges after release, as their pupae are exposed to various mortality factors that reduce the efficiency of biological control programs. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate a honey-solid diet that can feed adults still inside the capsules without sticking the wasps on its surface, enabling parasitoid storage and later field release. Three independent bioassays were performed, each with 20 completely randomized replications. The first bioassay evaluated the acceptance of a solid feed—honey soaked in cotton thread—compared to the traditional form—honey droplets. In the second bioassay, the storage periods after emergence of adults in capsules with honey-solid food were analyzed at 2, 4, 6, and 8 days post-emergence, and the third bioassay studied the efficacy of different release densities of fed adults under field conditions. Parasitoids fed on the honey-solid diet exhibited a 13.3% reduction in parasitism compared to honey droplets. However, the sticky, viscous nature of honey can lead to parasitoids becoming glued, potentially leading to their death. T. remus feeding on the honey-solid diet resulted in low mortality inside the capsules, living up to six days with only 22.2% reduction in parasitism capacity, making it a viable alternative to release and transport fed adult parasitoids, with an increase of around 30% in the released density of parasitoids compared with the parasitoids fed on honey droplets. This flexibility of releasing T. remus up to six days after emergence provided valuable knowledge to establish T. remus as a biocontrol agent. Furthermore, the highest tested parasitoid density of 20,000 parasitoids per hectare obtained the highest parasitism of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) eggs. However, future studies are still required with higher releasing densities and less expensive methods of mass rearing the parasitoid for those higher densities to be economically viable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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13 pages, 3735 KB

Open AccessArticle

Developmental Biology and Seasonal Damage of the Grape Borer Xylotrechus pyrrhoderus in Grapevines

by Ganyu Zhang, Yuying Jia, Haibin Wu, Yong Zhang, Murad Ghanim, Yanan Ma and Ruihong Sun

Insects 2025, 16(9), 979; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16090979 - 19 Sep 2025

Viewed by 901

Abstract

Xylotrechus pyrrhoderus Bates (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) is a major viticultural pest whose larval feeding damages grapevine canes and reduces yields, yet its internal development and damage progression are poorly understood. Using field surveys combined with micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and in situ X-ray [...] Read more.

Xylotrechus pyrrhoderus Bates (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) is a major viticultural pest whose larval feeding damages grapevine canes and reduces yields, yet its internal development and damage progression are poorly understood. Using field surveys combined with micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and in situ X-ray microscopy, we non-destructively tracked both tissue damage and life-cycle dynamics within canes. Damage intensity increased from December to May, with affected canes showing reduced porosity compared to healthy ones. Continuous imaging revealed a distinct prepupal stage and extended adult residence in pupal chambers before emergence. Morphometric analysis showed that adult size is constrained by pupal chamber dimensions, indicating adaptive adjustment to limited intra-cane space. These findings demonstrate the value of advanced imaging tools for clarifying the biology of X. pyrrhoderus and support the development of targeted management strategies for this and related agricultural pests. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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27 pages, 36475 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Impair Physiology and Reproductive Fitness of Tuta absoluta Through Plant-Mediated Oxidative Stress and Enzymatic Disruption

by Inzamam Ul Haq, Huiping Liu, Muhammad Adeel Ghafar, Saba Zafar, Mishal Subhan, Asim Abbasi, Moazam Hyder, Abdul Basit, Nazih Y. Rebouh and Youming Hou

Insects 2025, 16(9), 877; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16090877 - 23 Aug 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1596

Abstract

The tomato leafminer (Tuta absoluta) is a globally invasive pest that causes severe yield losses in tomato crops. Nanotechnology-based strategies offer promising alternatives to conventional insecticides. This study examines the physiological, biochemical, and demographic responses of T. absoluta following exposure to [...] Read more.

The tomato leafminer (Tuta absoluta) is a globally invasive pest that causes severe yield losses in tomato crops. Nanotechnology-based strategies offer promising alternatives to conventional insecticides. This study examines the physiological, biochemical, and demographic responses of T. absoluta following exposure to mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) applied to tomato leaves at concentrations of 0, 3, 30, and 300 mg L⁻¹. Comprehensive assessments were conducted, including digestive and detoxifying enzyme activities in the insect, neurotoxicity indicators, life table parameters, and antioxidant responses in the host plant. At 30 mg L⁻¹, MSNs significantly impaired larval development, fecundity, and survival of T. absoluta without inducing phytotoxicity. Tomato plants treated at this concentration exhibited enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD, CAT, POD) and a reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) content, indicating an active oxidative defense. These plant responses were significantly correlated with changes in insect fitness traits, suggesting a plant-mediated effect on pest physiology. Digestive enzyme disruption, decreased acetylcholinesterase activity, and extended developmental periods contributed to suppressed population growth, as evidenced by reductions in the intrinsic rate of increase (r), net reproductive rate (R₀), and fecundity. At 300 mg L⁻¹, however, severe phytotoxicity and enzymatic collapse were observed in both plant and insect systems. These findings highlight moderate concentration of MSNs (30 mg L⁻¹) as a promising dose for sustainable and host-safe pest management, offering multi-targeted suppression of T. absoluta through combined plant and insect biochemical pathways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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12 pages, 520 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Bacterial Strains as a Sustainable Approach for Control of Myzus cerasi (F.) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) Under Laboratory and Field Conditions

by Yeşim Bulak Korkmaz

Insects 2025, 16(8), 857; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16080857 - 18 Aug 2025

Viewed by 1040

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the insecticidal activity of four bacterial strains against M. cerasi under both laboratory and field conditions, in order to provide a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides. Four environmentally friendly bacterial strains were evaluated for their [...] Read more.

This study aims to evaluate the insecticidal activity of four bacterial strains against M. cerasi under both laboratory and field conditions, in order to provide a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides. Four environmentally friendly bacterial strains were evaluated for their potential as biocontrol agents: Brevibacillus brevis (FD-1), Bacillus cereus (FD-63), Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kenyae (FDP-8), and Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki (FDP-41). Experiments were conducted under both controlled laboratory and field conditions. Data showed that mortality rates ranged from 33.33% to 93.33% under controlled conditions and from 13.33% to 50% under field conditions over the 96 h period. B. thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki (FDP-41) and B. thuringiensis subsp. kenyae (FDP-8) were the most effective bacterial strains against the aphids in controlled conditions. The percentage of mortality related to these applications was 93.33% and 80% in 96 h under laboratory conditions. However, the effectiveness of B. thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki (FDP-41) was 50% at 96 h in the field. These findings suggest that B. thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki and B. thuringiensis subsp. kenyae hold significant potential as biological control agents against M. cerasi. Additionally, FDP-41 showed the lowest LT₅₀ value of 25.37 h in the laboratory and 86.40 h in the field. This indicates a much more rapid and potent effect on M. cerasi compared to other strains. As a result, it was concluded that these bacterial strains may be used successfully as biocontrol agents in the biological control of M. cerasi. Their successful use could reduce reliance on synthetic insecticides, thereby minimizing pesticide residues on crops and contributing to safer agricultural production and environmental sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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17 pages, 3641 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Biological Control of Drosophila suzukii: Efficacy of Trichopria drosophilae Releases and Interactions with a Native Parasitoid, Pachycrepoideus vindemiae

by Nuray Baser, Charbel Matar, Luca Rossini, Abir Ibn Amor, Dragana Šunjka, Dragana Bošković, Stefania Gualano and Franco Santoro

Insects 2025, 16(7), 715; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16070715 - 11 Jul 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1956

Abstract

The spotted wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii is an injurious polyphagous pest threatening worldwide soft fruit production. Its high adaptability to new colonized environments, short life cycle, and wide host range are supporting its rapid spread. The most common techniques to reduce its significant [...] Read more.

The spotted wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii is an injurious polyphagous pest threatening worldwide soft fruit production. Its high adaptability to new colonized environments, short life cycle, and wide host range are supporting its rapid spread. The most common techniques to reduce its significant economic damage are based on multiple insecticides applications per season, even prior to the harvest, which reduces agroecosystem biodiversity and affects human and animal health. Environmental concerns and regulatory restrictions on insecticide use are driving the need for studies on alternative biological control strategies. This study aimed to assess the effect of T. drosphilae in controlling D. suzukii infestations and its interaction with P. vindemiae, a secondary parasitoid naturally present in Apulia (South Italy). Field experiments were carried out in organic cherry orchards in Gioia del Colle (Bari, Italy) to test the efficacy and adaptability of T. drosphilae following weekly releases of artificially reared individuals. Additionally, the interaction between P. vindemiae and T. drosphilae was studied under laboratory conditions. Results from field experiments showed that D. suzukii populations were significantly lower when both parasitoids were present. However, T. drosophilae was less prone to adaptation, so its presence and parasitism were limited to the post-release period. Laboratory experiments, instead, confirmed the high reduction of D. suzukii populations when both parasitoids are present. However, the co-existence of the two parasitoids resulted in a reduced parasitism rate and offspring production, notably for T. drosophilae. This competitive disadvantage may explain its poor establishment in field conditions. These findings suggest that the field release of the two natural enemies should be carried out with reference to their natural population abundance to not generate competition effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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20 pages, 3055 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mealworm Frass as a Novel Insect Food-Based Attractant: The Case of Bactrocera oleae (Diptera: Tephritidae)

by Ioannis E. Koufakis, Argyro P. Kalaitzaki, George D. Broufas, Antonios E. Tsagkarakis and Maria L. Pappas

Insects 2025, 16(5), 466; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050466 - 28 Apr 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2147

Abstract

The management of Bactrocera oleae (Rossi, 1790) has relied on chemical insecticides, applied as bait or cover sprays. However, concerns over insecticide resistance and environmental impact have driven the search for more effective and eco-friendly alternatives, such as mass trapping. The aim of [...] Read more.

The management of Bactrocera oleae (Rossi, 1790) has relied on chemical insecticides, applied as bait or cover sprays. However, concerns over insecticide resistance and environmental impact have driven the search for more effective and eco-friendly alternatives, such as mass trapping. The aim of the study was to assess a novel food-based attractant, derived from Tenebrio molitor Linnaeus, 1758 excreta “Frass”, for its attractiveness to B. oleae adults compared to widely used commercial food-based attractants. Over a four-year period, five field trials were conducted in two organic olive groves in Crete, Greece, using a randomized complete block design with five or six replicate blocks. Results showed that frass-based attractants captured significantly higher number of B. oleae adults than the other tested attractants. Additionally, trap–attractant combinations were assessed to determine the most efficient mass-trapping system. Frass-based attractant deployed in Anel or container traps demonstrated significantly higher attractiveness than all commercial traps and lures tested. The significant advantages of mealworm frass as an attractant highlight its potential to enhance the monitoring and suppression of B. oleae in olive orchards. Its consistent performance, sustainability, and environmental safety make it a promising tool in integrated pest management strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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14 pages, 2961 KB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Irradiated Drosophila melanogaster Pupae on the Quality and Population Parameters of Trichopria drosophilae

by Yong-Zhuo Chen, Xiao-Meng Gong, Min Zhang, Peng-Cheng Liu, Xu-Xiang Zhang and Hao-Yuan Hu

Insects 2025, 16(4), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16040379 - 2 Apr 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1138

Abstract

Trichopria drosophilae is a globally distributed pupal parasitoid that targets various species within the Drosophilidae family, including the invasive Drosophila suzukii. The mass rearing of T. drosophilae is a crucial step in ensuring their successful application for field D. suzukii control. The [...] Read more.

Trichopria drosophilae is a globally distributed pupal parasitoid that targets various species within the Drosophilidae family, including the invasive Drosophila suzukii. The mass rearing of T. drosophilae is a crucial step in ensuring their successful application for field D. suzukii control. The pupae of Drosophila melanogaster are currently used as a host for the mass rearing of T. drosophilae. After irradiation, the immune system function of Drosophila pupae was weakened, leading to an increase in the parasitism efficiency of the T. drosophilae. Our results showed that irradiated pupae had a significant impact on the parasitism rate, offspring eclosion rate, offspring number, and female body size of F1 T. drosophilae, all of which were significantly lower than those in the normal group. However, there was no significant difference in the parasitism rate, body size, offspring eclosion rate, offspring number, or offspring sex ratio between F2 T. drosophilae emerging from treated or untreated Drosophila pupae. Compared with F2, F1 had a significantly higher net reproductive rate (R₀), mean generation time (T), and doubling time (DT), while the intrinsic rate of increase (r) was significantly lower. Using irradiated D. melanogaster pupae provides an efficient method for the mass rearing of T. drosophilae and offers valuable insights into its potential effectiveness in field D. suzukii control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

31 pages, 1386 KB

Open AccessReview

RNAi in Pest Control: Critical Factors Affecting dsRNA Efficacy

by Maribel Mendoza-Alatorre, Brenda Julian-Chávez, Stephanie Solano-Ornelas, Tania Samanta Siqueiros-Cendón, Jorge Ariel Torres-Castillo, Sugey Ramona Sinagawa-García, María Jazmín Abraham-Juárez, Carmen Daniela González-Barriga, Quintín Rascón-Cruz, Luis Ignacio Siañez-Estrada and Edward Alexander Espinoza-Sánchez

Insects 2025, 16(7), 737; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16070737 - 18 Jul 2025

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 8858

Abstract

In recent years, agricultural crops have increasingly been attacked by more destructive insect pests, forcing modern farming to depend mainly on chemical insecticides. Although valuable, their widespread and intensive misuse has raised serious concerns about environmental and public health impacts. RNAi has been [...] Read more.

In recent years, agricultural crops have increasingly been attacked by more destructive insect pests, forcing modern farming to depend mainly on chemical insecticides. Although valuable, their widespread and intensive misuse has raised serious concerns about environmental and public health impacts. RNAi has been proposed as a safer alternative due to its high specificity, adaptability, and low ecological footprint. So far, dsRNA has proven effective in controlling various pest species, either through topical application or via genetically modified plants. Despite advances, large-scale implementation of RNAi remains challenging due to technical and biological hurdles that contribute to inconsistent performance. Key aspects such as dsRNA design, delivery techniques, and cellular uptake mechanisms still require refinement. Additionally, ensuring environmental stability, addressing biosafety concerns, and developing cost-effective production methods are essential for its practical application. In this review, we explore recent advances in the design and implementation of dsRNA, as well as the strategies that could support the successful integration of RNAi technology into pest management programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

21 pages, 1671 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Genetic Characterization and Mating Disruption in Spodoptera Species, a Case Study on Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae): A Systematic Review

by Carla Tavares, Sílvia Catarino, António Mexia, Elsa Borges da Silva and Filipa Monteiro

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1176; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111176 - 18 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1537

Abstract

The genus Spodoptera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) includes several agricultural pests that cause major losses in global crop production and threaten food security, notably Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith, 1797), an invasive pest that is difficult to manage. Mating disruption through the application of synthetic sexual [...] Read more.

The genus Spodoptera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) includes several agricultural pests that cause major losses in global crop production and threaten food security, notably Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith, 1797), an invasive pest that is difficult to manage. Mating disruption through the application of synthetic sexual pheromones has emerged as a viable alternative method for lepidopteran pest management. However, the successful application of this method requires knowledge of the pest under various environmental conditions and the evaluation of pheromone effectiveness. This systematic review aims to highlight advances and knowledge gaps in the genetic characterization and pheromone-based mating disruption of Spodoptera species, with implications for S. frugiperda management. A literature search following PRISMA guidelines identified 4523 articles, of which 107 met the inclusion criteria, 84 focused on genetic analysis, 16 focused on pheromone-based control, and only 7 integrated both approaches. The COI gene is the main genetic marker used for species identification (76%), but inconsistencies remain in the strain identification of S. frugiperda. Pheromone-based control studies reported variable efficacy, with many not evaluating their impact on pest populations or crop damage. Overall, this review highlights the need to standardize pheromone formulations and adapt management strategies tailored to local agroecological conditions. It also underscores the importance of integrating genetic identification to improve our knowledge of pests and support the sustainable management of S. frugiperda. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Insect Pest Management: Innovative Approaches to Enhance Plant Protection)

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