Ecological Interactions of Invasive Insects and Native Plant Species in Changing Climate

Invasive insects pose a significant threat to native plant species and ecosystems, particularly in the context of changing climates. Understanding these interactions is crucial for effective conservation and management strategies aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of invasive species on native plant communities. Invasive insects often establish and proliferate in new habitats due to the absence of natural enemies and the availability of suitable resources. As climate change alters the distribution and phenology of plants, it can influence the susceptibility and resilience of native plant species to invasive insects. In some cases, rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns may favour the spread and population growth of invasive insects, leading to increased herbivory, reduced plant fitness, and ultimately, altered community dynamics. Furthermore, changing climates can disrupt the synchrony between native plants and their pollinators or beneficial insect populations, further exacerbating the impacts of invasive insects. As native plants and pollinators respond differently to shifting climatic conditions, their interactions may become disrupted, potentially reducing the reproductive success and long-term survival of native plant populations. However, it is important to note that climate change can also create novel opportunities for both invasive insects and native plant species. In certain instances, invasive insects may benefit from warmer temperatures and expanded ranges, while some native plants may exhibit adaptive responses and resilience to changing climatic conditions. These complex interactions highlight the need for a comprehensive understanding of the ecological dynamics between invasive insects and native plant species under various climate scenarios. The ecological interactions between invasive insects and native plant species in changing climates have far-reaching consequences for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem functioning. As climates continue to evolve, it is imperative to further investigate these interactions and develop adaptive strategies to mitigate the impacts of invasive insects on native plant communities. By doing so, we can strive to preserve and restore ecological balance in the face of ongoing environmental change

Antibiotic Impact of Certain Hosts on A Polyphagous Pest, Helicoverpa Armigera Hübner Under Ambient Rearing

The present study has been designed with the aim to explore the impact of certain established host plants on the biology of polyphagous pest, Helicoverpa armigera Hübner under the ambient rearing. The hosts namely, Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L), Maize (Zea mays L.), Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan L.), Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.), and Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) have been used. The test insect, Helicoverpa armigera has been reared under ambient on the mentioned hosts to know the host suitability and further has been evaluated for the bioattributes like feeding index, approximate digestibility (%), pupal weight, growth index and survival index. During investigation, Gram, Cicer arietinum L. [Feeding Index 0.27 {±0.25}, Approximate Digestibility per cent 61.40 {±2.14}, Pupal Weight (mg) 321.25 {±3.97}, Growth Index 0.87 {±0.20} and Survival Index 1.41 {±0.57}] followed by Maize, Zea mays L. [Feeding Index 0.21 {±0.3}, Approximate Digestibility per cent 57.07 {±3.17}, Pupal Weight (mg) 311.34 {±4.31}, Growth Index 0.79 {±0.22} and Survival Index 1.37 {±0.54}] and Pigeon Pea, Cajanus cajan L. [Feeding Index 0.13 {±0.47}, Approximate Digestibility per cent 54.54 {±3.17}, Pupal Weight (mg) 297.67 {±2.41}, Growth Index 0.61 {±0.31} and Survival Index 1.34 {±0.48}] have been found to be the most suitable on the basis of evaluated bioattributes for the development of the test insect, Helicoverpa armigera. It has been recorded that the rest host crops also showed variable performance on different bioattributes of the test insect, Helicoverpa armigera

Biochemical Changes of Chickpea Genotypesbefore and After Infestation of Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus Chinensis L. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) During Storage

The pulse beetle is a field-to-store pest as its infestation on pulses often begins in the field itself as adults lay eggs on mature pods and when such seed is harvested and stored, the pest population increases rapidly and results in total destruction within a short period of 3-4 months. Keeping in view,varietal screening of fifty chickpea genotypes was carried outin the storage laboratory, Department of Entomology, OUAT, BBSR and the performance of the genotypes was assessed based on various biological parameters of test insect, damage and infestation by C. chinensis. The results indicated that none of the genotypes was completely resistant to pest attack whereas 4 genotypes (Himachal Chana 1, Dheera (NBeG-47), JG-14 and Dilaji) were found moderately resistant, 8 genotypes (Phule Vikram, JG 11, ICCV-181108, ICCV-181107, ICCV-181605, C-18203, C-18205 and C-18252) were moderately susceptible,11 genotypes (RVG-204, RVG-203, JAKI-9218, Pratap Chana, Bharati, ICCC 4, ICCV-181106, ICCV-181612, C-18206, ICCV-181101 and Radhey) were susceptible and 27 genotypes (NBeG-49, Himachal Chana 2, JG-16, JG-130, CO 4, Vishal, Kranthi, NBeG-3, ICCV-14102, ICCV-171117, C-18175, ICCV-181611,ICCV-14106, Kalahandi Local, ICC 3137, ICCL 86111, C-19162, C-19168,GNG 2207, BG 3043, GG 3, Birsa Chana 3, C 19199, RSG 963, C 19200, KPG 59and NBeG 119) were noticed to be highly susceptible. The bio-chemicalconstituents analyzed in the present studies viz., protein, phenol, ash and fibre contents of the genotypes contributed to the resistance / susceptibility of C. chinensis. Among the biochemical parameters, protein exerted significant positive effect whereas phenol, ash and fibre contents exhibited negative influence on pest infestation and development

Safeguarding Agriculture: A Comprehensive Review of Plant Protection Strategies

The rapidly evolving landscape of agriculture faces myriad challenges, including pests, diseases, and environmental factors that jeopardise global food security. The urgency of these challenges necessitates innovative plant protection strategies that are both effective and environmentally sustainable. This review offers a comprehensive examination of the advancements and considerations in plant protection, from traditional methods to modern technological approaches. Traditional practices, although eco-friendly, often fall short in efficacy and scalability. The advent of chemical solutions such as pesticides revolutionised plant protection but brought about environmental and health concerns. Biological controls offer a middle-ground, leveraging natural predators and bio-pesticides to combat agricultural threats. Technology is playing an increasingly critical role in shaping the future of plant protection. Sensor technologies and drones are enabling precision agriculture, enhancing the monitoring and application of protection measures. Genetic engineering holds the promise of creating crops resistant to pests and diseases, albeit amid ethical and safety debates. Integrated Pest Management (IPM), a balanced, eco-friendly approach, is gaining traction, supported by case studies that validate its effectiveness and adaptability. Meanwhile, policy and regulation are evolving to better govern the use of chemicals, promote sustainability, and address the impacts of climate change on agriculture. This review explores future trends, particularly the influence of emerging technologies such as nanotechnology and IoT, and potential shifts in global policies towards more sustainable practices. It argues for the imperative of integrating these multifaceted approaches, guided by robust policies and regulations, to achieve the dual objectives of high agricultural yield and environmental conservation. It aims to provide a holistic understanding and guide future directions in plant protection strategies, emphasising the importance of adaptability, sustainability, and integration in facing the challenges of tomorrow