Topic Editors

Department of Agriculture, University of Patras, 30200 Messolonghi, Greece
Department of Agriculture, University of Patras, Nea Ktiria, 30200 Mesolonghi, Greece

Advances in Integrated Pest Management: New Tools and Tactics for Pest Control

Abstract submission deadline
30 October 2025
Manuscript submission deadline
31 December 2025
Viewed by
4399

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

The demand for sustainable agricultural practices has increased the importance of integrated pest management (IPM), both in the field and during storage. In the field, plants face a dynamic range of threats, including climate change-induced pest and pathogen proliferation, pest resistance development, and biodiversity loss. New research is vital for developing adaptive management strategies that address these challenges. Innovations in precision agriculture, such as pest monitoring systems and targeted interventions, hold promise for enhancing IPM effectiveness. Additionally, exploring the potential of beneficial organisms and natural predators can contribute to environmentally friendly solutions. At the same time, post-harvest losses due to pests and diseases also pose significant risks to food security. Developing advanced monitoring technologies, alongside improved packaging materials, can mitigate these issues. Moreover, understanding the interaction between stored-product pests and storage environments can inform the development of more robust protective measures . The future of global food security depends on the advancement of IPM as a cornerstone of modern agriculture and of resilient agricultural systems. In this context, the focus of this Topic is on the recent advances in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) related to, but not exhausted by, the following: 

  • Integrated management of crop pests and pathogens (insects, acari, plant-parasitic nematodes, etc.); 
  • Integrated management of stored-product insects (heat treatment, modified atmospheres, mating disruption, application of inert dusts, botanicals, etc.);
  • Trapping and monitoring of field and storage pests;
  • Precision farming technologies for crop and produce protection in the field and during storage.

We invite you to submit your manuscripts to this Topic, which aims to highlight recent research in integrated pest management for mitigating pre- and post-harvest losses and controlling field and stored-product pests.

Dr. Christos I. Rumbos
Dr. Eirini Karanastasi
Topic Editors

Keywords

  • biopesticides
  • chemical and non-chemical control
  • digital and precision tools; durable commodities
  • entomopathogenic nematodes and fungi
  • food security
  • integrated pest management
  • pest monitoring and detection tools
  • pre- and post-harvest pest infestations
  • stored-product insects

Participating Journals

Journal Name Impact Factor CiteScore Launched Year First Decision (median) APC
Agriculture
agriculture
3.3 6.3 2011 19.2 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Agronomy
agronomy
3.3 6.7 2011 17.6 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Crops
crops
- 2.4 2021 22.1 Days CHF 1000 Submit
Insects
insects
2.7 5.6 2010 16.7 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Sustainability
sustainability
3.3 7.7 2009 19.7 Days CHF 2400 Submit
Agrochemicals
agrochemicals
- - 2022 16.7 Days CHF 1000 Submit

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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29 pages, 1944 KiB  
Article
Insect Abundance and Richness in Squash Agroecosystems of Georgia, United States: The Role of Cultivar Selection and Weather Conditions
by Sanower Warsi, Yinping Li, George N. Mbata and Alvin M. Simmons
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1411; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061411 - 8 Jun 2025
Abstract
This study investigated the abundance and richness of insect pests and beneficial insects on 20 squash cultivars across three seasons in southern Georgia, U.S. Insects were sampled using yellow sticky cards, pan traps and sweep nets. Bemisia tabaci Gennadius (sweet potato whitefly) was [...] Read more.
This study investigated the abundance and richness of insect pests and beneficial insects on 20 squash cultivars across three seasons in southern Georgia, U.S. Insects were sampled using yellow sticky cards, pan traps and sweep nets. Bemisia tabaci Gennadius (sweet potato whitefly) was prevalent in all seasons, while other key pests showed distinct seasonal peaks. Diaphania hyalinata Linnaeus (melonworm) peaked mid-July in summer 2021 (21 June–1 August), while Thysanoptera species, Acalymma vittatum Fabricius (striped cucumber beetle), and Diabrotica balteata LeConte (banded cucumber beetle) peaked late July-early August. In fall 2021 (4 October–14 November), Epilachna borealis (squash beetle), D. hyalinata, and D. nitidalis Stoll (pickleworm) were more active in early to mid-October, whereas D. undecimpunctata howardi Barber (spotted cucumber beetle) peaked in late November. In fall 2022 (17 October–20 November), D. balteata and D. undecimpunctata howardi peaked mid October to early November, while Anasa tristis DeGeer (squash bug) peaked in mid–late November. Orius insidiosus Say (minute pirate bug) peaked in late summer 2021 and remained stable in fall 2021. Pollinators were most active in mid-fall. Cultivars influenced insect abundance. ‘Saffron’ and ‘Amberpic 8455’ harbored the most O. insidiosus and fewer D. balteata and Thysanoptera species. ‘Golden Goose Hybrid’ had the highest moth numbers. These patterns suggest that cultivar traits influenced pest susceptibility and beneficial arthropods’ activity. Temperature and relative humidity were positively correlated with A. vittatum and E. borealis numbers, but rainfall negatively affected bees. These findings underscore the importance of cultivar selection and weather condition considerations in integrated pest management. Full article
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11 pages, 855 KiB  
Article
Microbial Biopesticides to Control Whiteflies in Eggplant Solanum melongena, in Greenhouse
by Héctor Cabrera-Mireles, Magali Jiménez-Jiménez, Juan Ruiz-Ramírez, Félix David Murillo-Cuevas, Jacel Adame-García, Jorge Jiménez-Zilli, Andrés Vásquez Hernández and Rubén Uriel Herrera-Bonilla
Insects 2025, 16(6), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16060578 - 30 May 2025
Viewed by 384
Abstract
The whitefly is among the main pests of crops, especially solanaceous and cucurbitaceous plants. The massive use of pesticides for its control has led to an increase in the pest’s resistance to different groups of insecticides and to environmental contamination. The use of [...] Read more.
The whitefly is among the main pests of crops, especially solanaceous and cucurbitaceous plants. The massive use of pesticides for its control has led to an increase in the pest’s resistance to different groups of insecticides and to environmental contamination. The use of biopesticides for its control is a sustainable alternative for the environment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of two biopesticides based on entomopathogenic fungi against eggs, nymphs, and adults of whitefly in eggplant in a greenhouse. The treatments consisted of Cordyceps javanica, Beauveria bassiana, a commercial insecticide (i.e., Spirotetramat), and a control (no application). A completely randomized design was used with 16 repetitions per treatment, and the non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis test was applied. Mortality was recorded on five dates after application (DAA). The sampling data were transformed to efficiency (%). The biopesticides were found to be effective in controlling whiteflies in all developmental stages during the evaluation days. Full article
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21 pages, 4049 KiB  
Article
Biomass Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) Agronomic Response to Melanaphis sorghi (Hemiptera: Aphididae) Infestation and Silicon Application
by Douglas G. Santos, Leonardo L. C. Dias, Guilherme S. Avellar, Maria Lúcia F. Simeone, Rafael A. C. Parrella, Nathan M. Santos, Thaís F. Silva, Antônio A. Neto and Simone M. Mendes
Insects 2025, 16(6), 566; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16060566 - 27 May 2025
Viewed by 349
Abstract
Silicon application shows potential for enhancing crop resistance to pests while improving productivity. This study evaluated silicon’s effects on agronomic traits and chemical composition of biomass sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) under aphid infestation (Melanaphis sorghi (Theobald, 1904) (Hemiptera: Aphididae)). Greenhouse-grown sorghum [...] Read more.
Silicon application shows potential for enhancing crop resistance to pests while improving productivity. This study evaluated silicon’s effects on agronomic traits and chemical composition of biomass sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) under aphid infestation (Melanaphis sorghi (Theobald, 1904) (Hemiptera: Aphididae)). Greenhouse-grown sorghum (hybrid BRS716) was treated with silicic acid (0, 2, 4, or 6 metric tons per hectare), applied at sowing and the five-leaf stage. Aphid-infested plants were monitored weekly for damage, alongside growth measurements (height, stem diameter, leaf retention). Post-harvest, fresh, and dry biomass were analyzed via near-infrared spectroscopy and chemical assays. Data were assessed using ANOVA and regression models. Results demonstrated that silicon reduced aphid infestation and damage at 6 metric tons per hectare. Silicon also increased cellulose content and improved phosphorus and calcium uptake, though nitrogen and potassium levels decreased. These findings suggest that silicon supplementation can strengthen sorghum’s natural defenses, enhance biomass production, and modify nutrient profiles. This approach offers a sustainable strategy to mitigate aphid damage while maintaining crop yield and quality, with potential applications in integrated pest management systems. Full article
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17 pages, 1076 KiB  
Article
Maize Under Pressure: Spread of Helicoverpa armigera into Romanian Agroecosystems
by Emil Georgescu, Maria Toader, Ioan Sebastian Brumă, Lidia Cană, Luxița Rîșnoveanu, Paula-Lucelia Pintilie, Roxana-Georgiana Amarghioalei, Alina Crețu, Cristina Cionga, Cristina Radu and Horhocea Daniela
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1306; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061306 - 27 May 2025
Viewed by 315
Abstract
This paper presents a five-year study monitoring cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) flight dynamics using pheromonal traps and a study relating to the behavior of nine maize hybrids from two maturity groups in response to a pest attack in 2024. The monitoring [...] Read more.
This paper presents a five-year study monitoring cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) flight dynamics using pheromonal traps and a study relating to the behavior of nine maize hybrids from two maturity groups in response to a pest attack in 2024. The monitoring and field assessments were conducted in Southeast Romania, Călărași County, at the NARDI Fundulea. During the monitoring period, from 2020 to 2024, air temperature was higher than average in the summer months while rainfall was below average, except in June 2021. The total number of moths captured in the traps was 246 in 2020, 406 in 2021, 5064 in 2022, 1024 in 2023, and 4145 in 2024. In the middle of July 2022, the average captured moths per trap was 483.3; in the middle of September, it was 589.0 catches. In 2024, in the last 10 days of July, the average captured moths per trap was 311.7; in the last 10 days of August, it was 358.0, while in the middle of September, it was 362.3. In 2024, at the beginning of August, the attack incidence of corn earworm on maize hybrids ranged from 43.75 to 53.75%, and on 13 September, it was 100% for all hybrids. This is the first report from southeast Romania that mentions a higher population of cotton bollworm in the late summer and beginning of autumn and the first report to mention a large number of pest attacks on maize cobs in September. Full article
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20 pages, 3861 KiB  
Article
Suitability of Three Trunk Traps for Capturing Larvae of Lymantria dispar (L.) (Lepidoptera, Erebidae)
by Tanja Bohinc, Paraskevi Agrafioti, Stelios Vasilopoulos, Evagelia Lampiri, Maria C. Boukouvala, Anna Skourti, Demeter Lorentha S. Gidari, Nickolas G. Kavallieratos, Xavier Pons, Alexandre Levi-Mourao, Elena Domínguez Solera, Enrique Benavent Fernandez, Anna Roig Pinãs, Christos G. Athanassiou and Stanislav Trdan
Insects 2025, 16(5), 522; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050522 - 15 May 2025
Viewed by 258
Abstract
In this paper, we present the results of field investigations on the suitability of three types of trunk traps (‘Commercial 1’, ‘Commercial 2’, and ‘Prototype’) for capturing spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) larvae in two areas with different climates and forest ecosystems. [...] Read more.
In this paper, we present the results of field investigations on the suitability of three types of trunk traps (‘Commercial 1’, ‘Commercial 2’, and ‘Prototype’) for capturing spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) larvae in two areas with different climates and forest ecosystems. In areas of NE Slovenia, which were characterized by Pannonian climate and regular rainfall during the research period (2022–2024), the ‘Commercial 2’ trap was the most suitable for the capture of old larvae. In a forest with 20–30 m tall trees with the dominant species Quercus robur, Carpinus betulus, and Pinus sylvestris, it proved easy to set ‘Commercial 2’ on trunks and change their parts upon inspection for captures. ‘Commercial 1’ traps proved to be less suitable, since their bags quickly were filled with water during downpours and consequently fell out of the traps. ‘Prototype’ traps proved to be the most suitable in an area with a Mediterranean climate (Greece), where the trees (Quercus spp.) were smaller (3–4 m) and both younger and older larvae could more easily come into contact with the sticky surface of the inner part of the trap, of which longer-lasting effectiveness was possible in a drier climate. For the mass trapping of larvae in urban areas with a more humid climate, we therefore suggest the use of ‘Commercial 2’ traps, and in areas with a drier climate, the use of ‘Prototype’ traps. Full article
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16 pages, 1482 KiB  
Review
Exploring the Role of mRNA Methylation in Insect Biology and Resistance
by Jiayang Zhang, Luobin Lin, Botian Huang, Huoxi Liu, Huaqin Li and Wenmei Wu
Insects 2025, 16(5), 463; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050463 - 28 Apr 2025
Viewed by 502
Abstract
RNA methylation, characterized by modifications such as N6-methyladenosine, 5-methylcytosine, and N1-methyladenosine plays a crucial role in post-transcriptional gene regulation across diverse biological systems. While research on RNA methylation has predominantly focused on mammals, particularly its roles in epigenetic regulation [...] Read more.
RNA methylation, characterized by modifications such as N6-methyladenosine, 5-methylcytosine, and N1-methyladenosine plays a crucial role in post-transcriptional gene regulation across diverse biological systems. While research on RNA methylation has predominantly focused on mammals, particularly its roles in epigenetic regulation and cancer biology, recent studies in insects have begun to explore their extensive functions in insect physiology. This review examines the mechanisms by which RNA methylation regulates growth, development, reproduction, environmental adaptation, and immune response in insects, providing insights into the biological characteristics of these organisms without prematurely speculating on pest control strategies. It aims to offer valuable insights into the role of RNA methylation in insect biology and resistance. Full article
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20 pages, 2708 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Pest Management with Hollow Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Loaded with β-Cypermethrin
by Min Li, Linmiao Xue, Teng Gao, Zhuo Zhang, Dan Zhao, Xing Li and Zhanhai Kang
Agronomy 2025, 15(3), 737; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15030737 - 19 Mar 2025
Viewed by 470
Abstract
β-cypermethrin (BCP) is a broad-spectrum insecticide known for its rapid efficacy. However, it is highly toxic to non-target organisms such as bees and fish, and its effectiveness is limited by a short duration of action. Improving the release profile of BCP is essential [...] Read more.
β-cypermethrin (BCP) is a broad-spectrum insecticide known for its rapid efficacy. However, it is highly toxic to non-target organisms such as bees and fish, and its effectiveness is limited by a short duration of action. Improving the release profile of BCP is essential for reducing its environmental toxicity while preserving its effectiveness. In this study, hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (HMSNs) were synthesized using a self-templating method, and BCP-loaded HMSNs were prepared through physical adsorption. The structural and physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nitrogen adsorption–desorption analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The BCP release profile was assessed using the dialysis bag method. The results showed that the synthesized nanoparticles exhibited uniform morphology, thin shells, and large internal cavities. The HMSNs had a pore size of 3.09 nm, a specific surface area of 1318 m2·g−1, a pore volume of 1.52 cm3·g−1, and an average particle size of 183 nm. TEM, FT-IR, and TGA analyses confirmed the successful incorporation of BCP into the HMSNs, achieving a drug loading efficiency of 32.53%. The BCP-loaded nanoparticles exhibited sustained-release properties, with an initial burst followed by gradual release, extending efficacy for 30 days. Safety evaluations revealed minimal toxicity to maize seedlings, confirming the biocompatibility of the nanoparticles. These findings indicate that BCP-loaded HMSNs can enhance the efficacy of BCP while reducing its environmental toxicity, providing a biocompatible and environmentally friendly solution for pest control. Full article
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13 pages, 4958 KiB  
Article
Chemical Control of Western Corn Rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera Le Conte, Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in Eastern Romania
by Roxana-Georgiana Amarghioalei, Nela Tălmaciu, Monica Herea, Ionela Mocanu, Paula-Lucelia Pintilie, Andreea-Sabina Pintilie, Elena Trotuș and Mihai Tălmaciu
Insects 2025, 16(3), 293; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16030293 - 11 Mar 2025
Viewed by 795
Abstract
This paper aimed to determine the attack caused by WCR (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera Le Conte) and its control by chemical treatments on soil and vegetation. The research was carried out in eastern Romania between 2023 and 2024, where two trials were conducted [...] Read more.
This paper aimed to determine the attack caused by WCR (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera Le Conte) and its control by chemical treatments on soil and vegetation. The research was carried out in eastern Romania between 2023 and 2024, where two trials were conducted in the experimental field of the Agricultural Research and Development Station Secuieni—Neamt, where three granular insecticides applied to the soil against larvae and three chemical insecticides used on vegetation against adults were tested. Among the granular insecticides tested, the Force G (tefluthrin 15 g/kg) insecticide stood out with the best results, significantly reducing the number of larvae/plant (1 larva/plant) and, at the same time, the absence of the swan neck symptom was also recorded. Regarding insecticides applied to vegetation, the best results were obtained with the insecticide Inazuma (acetamiprid 100 g/kg + lambda-cyhalothrin 30 g/kg), which recorded a very good efficacy in combating adults of the species (95.4%). In conclusion, applying chemical treatments to soil and vegetation is necessary to control the attack by western corn rootworm (WCR). Full article
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21 pages, 727 KiB  
Article
Research on the Impact of Meteorological Disaster Shocks and Risk Perception on Farmers’ Cooperative Pest and Disease Control Behavior
by Zhiwu He, Xiuling Ding and Qian Lu
Agriculture 2025, 15(6), 590; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15060590 - 10 Mar 2025
Viewed by 558
Abstract
Climate change, primarily characterized by rising global temperatures, has led to a continuous expansion in the area affected by pests and diseases. This poses a significant threat to national agricultural production and directly jeopardizes food security. Cooperative pest and disease control behavior represents [...] Read more.
Climate change, primarily characterized by rising global temperatures, has led to a continuous expansion in the area affected by pests and diseases. This poses a significant threat to national agricultural production and directly jeopardizes food security. Cooperative pest and disease control behavior represents a novel approach to pest and disease management and is an important measure for mitigating agricultural production risks. This study employs Probit and IVProbit models to empirically examine the impact of meteorological disaster shocks on cooperative pest and disease control behavior. The results show that both meteorological disaster shocks and their frequency significantly and positively influence cooperative pest and disease control behavior. Moreover, the perception of risk losses plays a mediating role in this relationship. The impact of meteorological disaster shocks on farmers’ cooperative pest and disease control behavior is heterogeneous. Specifically, these shocks and their frequency significantly influence the choice of cooperative pest and disease control behavior among farmers with junior high school education or above and large-scale farmers, while they have no significant impact on farmers with primary school education or below and small-scale farmers. Full article
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