Towards the sustainable control of diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella L.) in cruciferous crops: current trends, resistance mechanisms, and future frontiers
Aug 2026· Frontiers in Agronomy· Vol 8· 0 citations· 192 references
Abstract
Diamondback moth (DBM,
Plutella xylostella
L.) is one of the most damaging pests of cruciferous crops, causing significant economic losses in multiple agri-food production systems globally. The high reproductive potential of DBM, rapid adaptability to diverse ecological zones, and resistance to several synthetic insecticides destabilize their integrated pest management (IPM) efforts. Here, we critically synthesize the current knowledge on DBM research across key IPM thematic areas, including biocontrol, insecticide use, phytochemistry interactions, insect-associated microbiomes and insecticide resistance, as well as the impact of climate alterations. This review has emphasized the importance of evidence based on insecticide applications, which have encouraged the development of resistance and are not sustainable for use in insect population management. However, the availability of other options for biocontrol agents, such as parasitoids, predators, entomopathogens, and host-plant resistance, has also been significant and sustainable for the management of DBM population. Apart from this, the effects of climate fluctuation have increased the spread of DBM population, which has also necessitated the use of adaptive strategies for its management, such as advanced pest surveillance systems, genome editing, and climate resilient cropping systems for breeding resistance to the pest. Despite significant technological advancements, key research gaps remain, including a limited understanding of DBM interactions with phytopathogens, as well as the socio-economic and policy-related barriers that hinder the adoption of IPM. Hence, future goal for DBM control would be implementing robust, sustainable, eco-friendly, and technology-driven approaches to reduce the development of resistance to conventional insecticides and achieving maximum control effects. Future approaches should focus on multidisciplinary collaboration, farmer awareness, and policy support to improve sustainable DBM management. In conclusion, our review provides practical information for improving IPM strategies against DBM populations, ensuring food security, and developing long-term resilience of plant production systems under increasing ecological and climate change pressures.
Findings indicate that durable, cost-effective T. tabaci control will depend on investing in resistant cultivars, supporting access to quality biocontrol agents, and embedding monitoring based decision tools in extension and policy frameworks rather than relying on calendar based insecticide use.
Oumaima Moustaid, Dina Zanbot, C. Ramdani et al.· Frontiers in Agronomy· 0 citations
Overall, several fungal species successfully colonized plant tissues and reduced FAW performance through increased larval mortality, delayed development, and reduced feeding, and effects were associated with the production of bioactive secondary metabolites, induction of plant defense responses, and alteration of volatile organic compound emissions.
Nongamanégré Kouanda, Ibtissem Ben Fekih, M. Cokola et al.· Plants· 0 citations
Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) is an important vegetable crop cultivated widely in tropical and subtropical regions, with India contributing the largest share of global production. Among the major arthropod pests affecting okra, the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, causes serious economic losses by reducing plant growth, fruit quality, and marketable yield. Effective management of this pest requires an integrated strategy that combines host plant resistance, biological control, cultural practices, judicious use of acaricides, and timely advisory support to farmers. This review critically examines published research on the biology, host range, damage potential, resistance mechanisms, and management approaches for T. urticae in okra. Particular emphasis is placed on integrated pest management (IPM), the role of agricultural extension services, digital advisory systems, and precision agriculture technologies in promoting sustainable mite management. The review also identifies existing research gaps, including the need for standardized resistance-screening methods, economic threshold levels, resistance monitoring, and climate-resilient management strategies. Strengthening collaboration among researchers, extension agencies, and farming communities will be essential for improving the adoption of scientifically validated practices and ensuring sustainable okra production under changing climatic conditions. The findings presented in this review may assist researchers, extension professionals, and policymakers in designing sustainable mite-management programmes suitable for diverse agro-ecological conditions.
S. Singh, Kaushal Kumar Pandey, Vishal Yadav et al.· International Journal of Env...· 0 citations
Thrips (Thysanoptera) are among the most destructive insect pests of agricultural and horticultural crops worldwide due to their wide host range, rapid reproduction, cryptic feeding behaviour and ability to transmit several plant viruses. Important species such as Thrips tabaci, Thrips palmi, Scirtothrips dorsalis, Frankliniella schultzei and the invasive species Thrips parvispinus infest cereals, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables, fruits and ornamentals causing severe yield and quality losses. Both adults and nymphs feed by lacerating plant tissues and sucking cell contents, resulting in silvering, bronzing, leaf curling, flower shedding and fruit scarring. The spread of invasive species and increasing insecticide resistance have intensified management challenges. Sustainable thrips management requires integrated pest management (IPM) combining cultural, mechanical, biological, behavioural, biotechnological and quarantine measures with judicious insecticide use. This integrated approach suppresses pest populations, conserves natural enemies, delays resistance development, minimizes environmental risks and ensures sustainable crop protection.
Souvik Barman, P. Rai· Biological Forum· 0 citations
The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, has become an important constraint in okra cultivation due to its ability to multiply rapidly and cause serious damage to foliage. Infestation often results in reduced photosynthetic activity, poor plant vigour, and significant losses in yield and marketable quality, particularly under warm and dry conditions. Continuous reliance on synthetic acaricides has resulted in several challenges, including resistance development, pesticide residues, resurgence of pest populations, and adverse effects on beneficial organisms. These concerns have encouraged researchers to explore environmentally safer alternatives for mite management. This review critically examines published information on plant-derived acaricides and their potential role in managing T. urticae in okra-based production systems. Findings from studies conducted in India and other countries indicate that neem-based products, garlic-chilli extracts, karanja oil, tulsi extracts, and several essential oils possess significant acaricidal, repellent, and growth-regulating properties. Evidence generated from field investigations conducted under the doctoral research programme of Singh at Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, indicated that NSKE 5%, azadirachtin 0.03%, and neem oil were among the most promising botanical options for suppressing Tetranychus urticae populations under field conditions. Unlike many conventional acaricides that primarily target a single physiological pathway, botanical products influence mite populations through several complementary mechanisms, including direct toxicity, feeding inhibition, reproductive suppression, interference with growth and development, reduction in fecundity, and oviposition deterrence. Their comparatively lower toxicity to natural enemies enhances their suitability for incorporation into integrated pest management programmes. Although several promising results have been reported, challenges related to formulation standardisation, field persistence, and large-scale adoption still need to be addressed. Future efforts should focus on improving formulation technology, validating performance across diverse agro-climatic conditions, and promoting farmer awareness. Overall, botanical acaricides offer a promising component of sustainable and residue-conscious mite management strategies in okra cultivation.
S. Singh, Kaushal Kumar Pandey, A. Singh· International Journal of Env...· 0 citations
Assessment of damage potential and sustainable management options in radish, a highly susceptible, short-duration crop that experiences both foliar and root damage, and the potential of native Beauveria bassiana isolates for integration into sustainable pest management programs highlights the potential of native entomopathogenic fungi for integration into sustainable pest management programs.
Benakashree Chandrakanth, Shanthi Mookiah, M. Marimuthu et al.· Archives of Microbiology· 0 citations
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