A novel push-pull strategy-based aphid control agent: repellency on Myzus persicae and attraction towards Eupeodes corollae from laboratory to field

Abstract

Aphids are one of the most destructive agricultural pests worldwide. Traditional aphid control mainly relies on chemical pesticides, which have adversely affected non-target organisms and the environment. The push-pull strategy, an emerging alternative approach, shows promise for aphid management by repelling aphids and attracting their natural enemies. In our previous research, a salicylate-substituted carboxyl (E)-β-farnesene derivative 3e was found to have effective aphid-repellent and ladybug-attract activities in the laboratory. However, it remains unknown whether 3e possesses attraction towards other aphid enemies, such as hoverflies. Meanwhile, further investigation on the aphid-repellent activity characteristics of 3e is meaningful for green control of aphids. Herein, the comprehensive aphid-repellent properties of 3e and its potential to attract hoverflies were evaluated. Laboratory, greenhouse and field experiments demonstrated that 3e exhibited significant repellent activity against aphids (Myzus persicae) in an optimal concentration range. Electroantennogram (EAG) results showed that 3e elicited a strong response from antennae of adult hoverflies (Eupeodes corollae). Field experiments further confirmed its excellent attraction towards E. corollae for the first time. The molecular mechanism study revealed that hydrophobic interactions were pivotal in the binding affinity of 3e to the target EcorOBP15, with steric spatial effect significantly influencing its interaction with EcorOR3. Additionally, 3e exhibited low toxicity to bees (Apis mellifera). This study suggests that 3e is a potential promising push-pull agent for integrated aphid management in sustainable agriculture.