Search Results (228)

Microwave heating has been widely used for disinfestation in the food industry due to its selective heating. However, research on the effects of microwave heating on stored product insects is still relatively limited, which has restricted its broader application in grain pest control storage. Therefore, this study evaluated the lethal effects of different microwave powers and exposure times on three major pests in paddy and investigated the impact of microwave treatment on improving adult detection efficiency, intending to develop a rapid and efficient detection method for stored grain insects. The results showed that the mortality of Sitophilus oryzae, Tribolium castaneum, and Oryzaephilus surinamensis increased with the increase in microwave power and exposure time. Specifically, 100% mortality was achieved for both S. oryzae and T. castaneum at 700 W for 60 s exposure. However, higher power levels and longer exposure durations exacerbated the non-uniformity of grain temperature distribution and adversely affected the germination rate. In addition, microwave treatment at 350 W, 490 W, and 700 W significantly reduced fungal load in paddy. The moisture content and water activity of rice decreased with the increase in microwave power and exposure time, while the percentage of grain breakage remained largely unaffected. These findings indicated that microwave treatment can effectively control insects and fungi without significantly altering the main physical properties of paddy. Notably, microwave treatment with short exposure durations (20–30 s) at all three power levels is conducive to increasing the recovery percentage of S. oryzae adults, while microwave treatment at low power (350 W) with exposure durations of 25–40 s helps improve that of T. castaneum. Accordingly, microwave heating is not only a promising strategy for protecting stored grains but also has potential for development as a rapid detection method for specific insect pests. Full article

The use of proteolytic enzymes in association with entomopathogenic fungi offers a promising alternative for improving the biological control of insect pests. This study evaluated the compatibility between Beauveria bassiana and papain and the effectiveness of their combined application in controlling Tenebrio molitor. Conidial viability in the presence of papain was monitored for 48 h and showed a reduction in germination from 100% to approximately 70%, without detrimental effects on fungal performance. Papain activity remained stable up to 12 h, declining afterward, indicating biochemical compatibility. Bioassays revealed significant differences among treatments (p < 0.01). In larvae, mortality ranged from 5.18 ± 0.19% in the control to 49.62 ± 2.00% with papain, 62.24 ± 0.58% with conidia, and 89.71 ± 1.06% in the combined treatment; papain and conidia alone did not differ statistically. In pupae, mortality reached 2.20 ± 0.00% in the control, 47.38 ± 0.69% with papain, 63.69 ± 0.69% with conidia, and 85.91 ± 0.84% with the combination, with all treatments differing significantly. Fungal reisolation confirmed typical B. bassiana development. Overall, the results show that papain does not compromise fungal viability and that its combination with B. bassiana enhances entomopathogenic activity, supporting its potential for integrated pest management. Full article

Climate change scenarios predict increased temperatures, potentially impacting the development of phytopathogenic fungi and the efficacy of their control. This study evaluated the effects of four natural organic compounds—carvacrol, eugenol, trans-cinnamaldehyde, and 1-heptyn-3-ol—on the growth of Fusarium verticillioides and the survival of Sitophilus zeamais under two temperature regimes (28 °C and 32 °C). Fungal growth was assessed through the lag phase duration and mycelial expansion, while insecticidal activity was determined by mortality of S. zeamais. Carvacrol (1 ppm) produced the most pronounced inhibitory effect on fungal growth, significantly extending the lag phase and reducing mycelial area, with eugenol showing similar effects at selected concentrations. Both compounds maintained or enhanced their antifungal activity at elevated temperatures. Trans-cinnamaldehyde and 1-heptyn-3-ol exhibited moderate or low effects, depending on concentration and temperature. Regarding S. zeamais, 1-heptyn-3-ol achieved complete mortality at all concentrations under both temperature scenarios, whereas carvacrol, eugenol, and trans-cinnamaldehyde showed dose-dependent effects at 28 °C and enhanced efficacy at 32 °C. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of these compounds as sustainable, climate-resilient alternatives for managing fungal pathogens and stored-product pests. Full article

Mating disruption (MD) is an environmentally friendly pest management approach that uses synthetic pheromones to interfere with insect mate location and reproduction. This review summarizes current progress in the application of MD for stored-product pests, with emphasis on Lepidoptera (Plodia interpunctella Hübner and Ephestia kuehniella Zeller (Pyralidae)) and Coleoptera (Sitophilus spp. (Curculionidae)). For moth pests, numerous studies have demonstrated substantial suppression of mating and population growth under both laboratory and field conditions, particularly when MD is integrated with sanitation, monitoring and other IPM measures. Conversely, MD applications against beetles have been less successful due to their aggregation-based communication and lower volatility of their pheromones. Advances in pheromone formulation technology, including polymer dispensers, microencapsulated sprays and aerosol emitters, have improved pheromone stability and controlled release, although achieving uniform coverage in large and aerated storage environments remains challenging. The integration of MD with biological control, temperature management and reduced fumigant use offers promising directions for sustainable pest suppression. Continued development of smart-release devices, long-term field validation and integration with automated monitoring systems will further enhance the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of MD. Overall, MD represents a key behavioral component in reducing pesticide reliance and promoting sustainable management of stored-product pests. Full article

Tribolium castaneum, the red flour beetle, is both a major pest of stored products and a valuable genetic model. Odorant Binding Proteins (OBPs), traditionally associated with olfaction, are now recognized as multifunctional, contributing to detoxification, immunity, and reproduction. This review synthesizes recent advances in the molecular structure, gene expression, and functional characterization of T. castaneum OBPs—particularly TcOBPC11, TcOBPC12, TcOBPC17, and TcOBP7G. Experimental evidence, including RNA interference, ligand-binding assays, and expression profiling, supports their role in defense against xenobiotics. Comparative genomic analyses reveal lineage-specific expansions and adaptive evolution, especially in Minus-C OBPs. Translational applications include RNA interference (RNAi)-based pest control, OBP-targeting repellents, and biosensors. Outstanding challenges remain, including structural resolution and functional redundancy. Future research integrating CRISPR, single-cell transcriptomics, and structural biology will be critical to decode OBP regulatory networks and leverage their potential in pest management and biotechnology. Full article

The pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) fruit peel is an agro-industrial by-product rich in bioactive compounds. In this study, the bioactivity of pomegranate peels (cv. Ako) extracted with acetone, diethyl ether, and n-hexane was assessed by evaluating toxic (contact and ingestion), repellent, antifeedant, and nutritional effects towards Sitophilus granarius (L.) (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) adults. Contact toxicity assays revealed significant mortality induced by the acetone and n-hexane extracts, with 24-h LD₅₀ values of 76.93 and 81.14 $\mathsf{\mu }$g/adult, respectively. In ingestion bioassays, at the highest dose tested (750 $\mathsf{\mu }$g/disk), the acetone pomegranate peel extract showed a strong feeding deterrence (FDI: 80%), and significantly reduced food consumption (RCR) and relative growth rate (RGR). In filter paper repellency assays, the acetone extract induced positive contact repellency, with PR values ranging from 80% to 30%. GC-MS analysis identified sitosterol, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid, and $\alpha$-tocopherol as the major constituents of the acetone extract. These results highlight the potential of pomegranate peel as a sustainable source of bioactive compounds for stored-product insect pest management. Full article

The present study aimed to document the diversity and seasonal dynamics of stored-product insects in an animal feed facility located in northern Greece. A total of 38 traps were installed across different operational areas of the facility and inspected over 51 consecutive sampling occasions. Captured insects were identified to the lowest possible taxonomic level, and their frequency and dominance were calculated. In total, 9047 insect species belonging to five orders, 14 families, and at least 18 insect species were recorded. The dominant species were Tribolium castaneum, T. confusum, Oryzaephilus surinamensis, Sitophilus granarius, Lasioderma serricorne, and Lepidoptera adults, which collectively accounted for more than 85% of all captures. The total number of insects exhibited marked seasonal fluctuations, with the highest captures during late summer and early autumn and minimal activity during winter. Positive and significant correlations were detected among several dominant species, notably between Lepidoptera and T. castaneum, suggesting overlapping environmental preferences within the facility. These findings provide a detailed overview of the insects associated with feed industries in Greece and underscore the importance of continuous monitoring for effective pest management. The results highlight the need for seasonally adjusted control measures and contribute to a better understanding of the dynamics of stored-product pests under industrial conditions. Full article

Prostephanus truncatus is well known for causing extensive postharvest losses and threatening food security in tropical and subtropical regions. The reliance on synthetic insecticides has raised concerns about the development of resistance, environmental safety, food contamination, and human health, emphasizing the need for alternative management strategies. Thus, the present study evaluated the insecticidal efficacy of diatomaceous earth (DE) in the Protector formula alone and in combination with spinosad, abamectin, or the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana against P. truncatus adults and their progeny production on maize under two temperatures (25 and 30 °C) at low concentrations. Bioassays revealed that DE or B. bassiana alone induced low mortality, while spinosad and abamectin single applications resulted in high mortality rates, achieving 100% after 21 days of exposure at 30 °C at the higher concentrations. The combined applications of spinosad or abamectin with DE resulted in complete mortality and progeny suppression at lower concentrations at 25 °C. Temperature had a significant influence in some cases. Overall, these findings demonstrate that DE, when combined with other natural insecticidal agents at low concentrations, especially spinosad and abamectin at specific temperatures, can provide highly effective control of P. truncatus, offering a promising strategy for integrated pest management (IPM) in stored maize. Full article

Some special volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that significantly induce female oviposition preferences may be utilized to disrupt oviposition behavior and to enhance trapping strategies; such approaches offer a promising avenue for reducing insect infestations in stored commodities. Based on the significant differences in the oviposition preference of P. interpunctella among six normal-oleic varieties (NOPs), the key VOCs involved were further explored. Seventeen VOCs that may contribute the oviposition preference and that exhibited a high content in the peanut varieties were measured through electroantennogram (EAG) response measurements of female moths. The VOCs that produced significant EAG responses by the females were further assayed for behavioral responses by the Y-tube olfactometer method, wind tunnel tests, and a multiple-choice device for female oviposition. Heptanal, acetophenone, nonanal, hexanal, benzaldehyde, octanal, hexanoic acid, decanal, phenylacetaldehyde, and 1-octen-3-ol from peanuts elicited strong antennal EAG responses. These VOCs (especially heptanal, nonanal, hexanal, octanal, and decanal) attracted more females in both Y-tube olfactometer and wind tunnel assays and increased oviposition rates in oviposition tests. The results indicate that heptanal, decanal, octanal, nonanal, and hexanal may be utilized to develop oviposition attractants for female moths further. Full article

Botanical insecticides have gained interest due to a rising demand for environmentally friendly pest control methods for stored-product protection. The insecticidal effectiveness of the essential oil (EO) obtained from the oleo-gum-resin of myrrh (Commiphora myrrha (Nees) Engl.), against Prostephanus truncatus (Horn) and Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky, and the metabolic shifts of the two species, were investigated in this work. A thorough gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) investigation showed that the composition of this EO was dominated by furanosesquiterpenes, specifically, furanoeudesma-1,3-diene and curzerene. Commiphora myrrha EO treatments, especially at 1000 ppm, resulted in high adult mortality for P. truncatus (up to 85.6%), while S. zeamais showed only moderate mortality (up to 25.6%). To investigate the different species-specific effectiveness of the EO, untargeted GC-MS metabolomic profiling was conducted to elucidate the impact of the EO on the metabolism of the insects, with subsequent data analysis employing multivariate, univariate, and network methods. Each species reacts differently to the treatments (myrrh EO versus the synthetic insecticide pirimiphos-methyl (PM)), according to the analysis results. In particular, myrrh EO caused distinct shifts in metabolic pathways that varied between P. truncatus and S. zeamais. Overall, C. myrrha EO exhibits potential as a botanical insecticide, especially against P. truncatus, and it causes metabolic disturbances specific to the species. The results demonstrate the significance of metabolomic technologies in assessing bioinsecticide mechanisms and lend credence to their possible incorporation in integrated pest management methodologies or their contribution to the creation of diagnostic indicators of insecticidal exposure. Full article

The predatory mite Amblyseius andersoni Chant (Acari: Phytoseiidae) is a key biological control agent against spider mites and other pests. For its broad application, efficient and affordable mass-rearing systems are essential. This study evaluated the effects of rearing substrate, food type, and rearing history on the development, survival, reproduction, and predation efficiency of the predator. Mites were reared on leaf discs or Plexiglas plates and fed one of five diets, including various plant pollens and the stored product mite Carpoglyphus lactis (L.) (Acari: Carpoglyphidae). Additionally, it was assessed whether rearing five generations on cattail pollen supplemented with the natural prey (Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) or frozen C. lactis influenced later predators’ performance. The substrate type did not affect development or survival contrary to the food source, with mites fed on cattail pollen or C. lactis developing faster and producing more eggs. Survival remained high across all diets. The intrinsic rate of increase was highest with cattail pollen and C. lactis. The five-generation rearing did not affect performance or feeding on natural prey such as T. urticae or Aculops lycopersici (Tryon) (Acari: Eriophyidae). These findings demonstrate that A. andersoni can be effectively mass-reared on alternative diets and substrates, supporting biocontrol strategies. Full article

In recent years, interest in edible insects has increased in Western countries, leading to an expansion of the market for insect-based products. In this context, it is essential to assess their susceptibility to infestation by stored-product pests, to ensure food safety and to develop appropriate storage management strategies. This study examined the ability of three common stored-product moth species (Plodia interpunctella, Corcyra cephalonica and Ephestia kuehniella) to infest Acheta domesticus powder and biscuits enriched with cricket powder. Larval development, adult emergence, wingspan and female fertility were evaluated. The results showed that P. interpunctella and C. cephalonica were able to complete their development on cricket powder, albeit with lower survival rates, longer developmental times and fewer offspring than on the standard diet. E. kuehniella was unable to develop on cricket powder and only minimal adult emergence was recorded in the biscuit trials, although signs of infestation were detected. These findings demonstrate that stored-product moths represent a potential infestation risk for this novel food, the market for which is expected to grow. Full article

The integration of essential oils (EOs) with biological control agents offers a promising alternative to synthetic pesticides, though compatibility remains unclear. This study evaluated nutmeg (Myristica fragrans, NM), cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum, CIN), and clove (Syzygium aromaticum, CL) specifically on S. oryzae and L. distinguendus. Olfactory and behavioral responses to whole EOs and major constituents (myristicin, cinnamaldehyde, eugenol) were analyzed using the area preference method (APM) and two-choice behavioral bioassay (TCB), with confirmation by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In S. oryzae, APM showed attraction to all three EOs (PI = 0.14 to 0.56). A paradox emerged, however, as single constituents were mostly repellent (eugenol: PI = −0.58 to −0.70; cinnamaldehyde: PI shifted from 0.16 to −0.20), underscoring the complexity of EO mixtures where multiple compounds act jointly rather than individually. In contrast, L. distinguendus strongly avoided CL and CIN in TCB, with fewer than 30% of parasitoids choosing the EO-treated side (χ² test, p < 0.05). CIN therefore demonstrated selective potential, simultaneously attracting S. oryzae while repelling L. distinguendus. These findings highlight the dual role of EOs as botanical pest control tools, while stressing the need to consider non-target effects before practical application. Full article

The genus Sclerodermus Latreille (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae) comprises over 80 species of ectoparasitoids of insect pests in forests, agricultural environments, and stored products with a cosmopolitan distribution. Despite its growing significance in biological control, behavioral ecology, and public health, the taxonomy of the genus remains poorly resolved. This is largely due to morphological reduction and simplification among species, outdated or incomplete original descriptions, and limited access to type material. A particularly problematic case is Sclerodermus cereicollis Kieffer, originally described from two geographically disjunct populations: Giglio Island (Italy, Palaearctic) and Annobón Island (Equatorial Guinea, Afrotropical). The syntype series includes morphologically divergent specimens, casting doubt on their conspecificity. In this study, we redescribe S. cereicollis based on both the original syntypes and newly collected material from Italy. A lectotype is designated to stabilize the nomenclature, and we provide the first molecular data for the species to assess genetic cohesion among populations. Comparative morphological and molecular analyses reveal that the Afrotropical syntypes represent a distinct, previously undescribed species. Accordingly, we describe Sclerodermus annobonensis Masini, Colombo & Azevedo sp. nov., designating a holotype. This study refines species boundaries within Sclerodermus and highlights the value of integrative taxonomy, combining historical and contemporary data, in resolving persistent systematic ambiguities in morphologically conservative taxa. Full article

Physical conditions in grain storage environments influence trophic interactions between predators and their prey and can affect the effectiveness of biocontrol agents. The study aimed to assess the potential of Xylocoris flavipes (Reuter) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae), to manage Liposcelis decolor (Pearman) (Psocodea: Liposcelididae). Liposcelis decolor population suppression and X. flavipes progeny production were assessed at five predator–prey (P-P) ratios (0:240, 1:240, 2:240, 3:240, and 5:240), four temperatures (20, 24, 28, and 32 °C), and three relative humidities (RH) (63, 75, and 85%) over 40 days at 0:24 (L:D) photoperiod in the laboratory. Compared with the Control P-P ratio of 0:240 (no predators), prey suppression >97% was achieved across all predator release ratios. At 32 °C and 75% RH, which are the optimal conditions for L. decolor, 3985.13 ± 255.45 prey survived in the Control P-P ratio compared with 19.85 ± 2.47–115.73 ± 8.99 found for the four P-P ratios with the predator, representing prey reduction of 97.10–99.50%. Temperature influenced X. flavipes progeny production, which was greatest at 28 °C and a P-P ratio of 1:240. Suppression caused by X. flavipes demonstrates its potential as a biological control agent to manage psocid infestations in stored commodities. Full article