A Mini Review on Insect Pests of Wheat and Their Management Strategies

Abstract

Insect pests pose a significant threat to wheat production globally, leading to substantial economic losses and reduced yields. This review paper provides an overview of the different types of insect pests that affect wheat, the damage they cause, and the methods used for their control. The major insect pests that infest wheat include aphids, Hessian fly, armyworms, and cereal leaf beetles. These pests cause damage by feeding on the leaves, stems, and developing grain, leading to reduced plant growth and ultimately reduced yield. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a widely accepted approach for sustainable management of insect pests in wheat. IPM involves a combination of biological, cultural, and chemical control methods to reduce pest populations and minimize pesticide use. The use of resistant wheat varieties, crop rotation, and sanitation practices are examples of cultural control methods that can reduce pest populations. Biological control methods involve the use of natural enemies such as predators, parasites, and pathogens to control insect pests. Chemical control methods are used as a last resort and involve the use of pesticides in a targeted and judicious manner. Biotechnology offers an alternative approach to controlling insect pests in wheat. The use of genetic engineering to develop insect-resistant wheat varieties has been successful in reducing insect pest damage. However, concerns about the potential ecological and social impacts of genetically modified organisms need to be addressed. In conclusion, sustainable management strategies that integrate biological, cultural, and chemical control methods are essential for effective control of insect pests in wheat production. The use of genetically modified organisms should be carefully evaluated to ensure that their use does not have adverse ecological and social impacts.

The Genetics of Insecticide Resistance in Relation to Climate Change

“…For example, research on mosquitoes, which are vectors for diseases such as malaria and dengue fever, has shown that temperature variations can influence the expression of genes associated with insecticide resistance. Similarly, studies on agricultural pests have indicated that increased temperature and aridity can affect the detoxification mechanisms and metabolic pathways involved in insecticide resistance (Akbar et al 2023).…”

Biopesticides: A Potential Solution for the Management of Insect Pests

“…These microorganisms can infect or parasitize pests, inhibit their growth, or produce toxins that are specific to certain pest species. Plantbased biopesticides, on the other hand, harness the insecticidal, fungicidal, or herbicidal properties of botanical extracts, essential oils, or plant-derived compounds (Akbar et al, 2023).…”