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Discovery: How Colorado potato beetles beat pesticides

A study by University of Vermont researchers reveals that Colorado potato beetles develop resistance to pesticides through epigenetic changes, which can be passed on to descendants across at least two generations. These changes allow the beetles to rapidly adapt to new pesticides without requiring genetic mutations.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateDec 21, 2020

Tracking the spread of mosquito insecticide resistance across Africa

A recent study mapped mosquito insecticide resistance patterns across Africa, finding dramatic increases in resistance to five mainstream insecticides between 2005 and 2017. This surge in resistance poses a significant threat to malaria control efforts, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa where over half of all cases occur.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 25, 2020

Widely used weed killer harming biodiversity

Researchers from McGill University found that widespread use of Roundup herbicide can trigger loss of biodiversity in freshwater ecosystems, making them more vulnerable to pollution and climate change. The study discovered that some ecosystems adapt by evolving resistance to the herbicide, but this comes at a cost of plankton diversity.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 2, 2020

Advanced breeding paves the way for disease-resistant beans

A new breeding method uses genetic profiles to predict disease resistance in beans, speeding up the process and reducing pesticide use. The method has been applied to 316 varieties of beans and shows promise for increasing crop yields and improving food security in Africa and Latin America.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateSep 11, 2019

What happens if we run out?

A large-scale study is proposed to test the efficacy of strategies for preventing pesticide resistance in critical weed and insect species. The authors recommend providing resources for landscape-level studies and incentives for farmers to participate, highlighting the need for a multi-faceted approach to addressing this pressing issue.

Temperature affects insecticide efficacy against malaria vectors

A study published in Malaria Journal found that ambient temperature impacts the toxicity of commonly used insecticides against malaria vectors. The researchers explored the effect of temperature on pyrethroid and carbamate insecticides, revealing that temperature affects their efficacy differently for resistant and susceptible strains.

Novel mosquito net provides children with greater protection against malaria

A two-year trial showed that a long-lasting insecticidal net treated with piperonyl butoxide reduced malaria prevalence by 44% and 33% compared to standard nets. The study also demonstrated unprecedented control through indoor residual spraying, reducing infection by 48%. WHO has revised its recommendations for the use of these novel n...

Hybrid swarm in global mega-pest

A new hybrid mega-pest has been confirmed in Brazil, combining the cotton bollworm and corn earworm to create a super-pest with unlimited geographical boundaries. The hybrid's emergence poses significant concerns for global food security due to its high resistance to pesticides and widespread damage to crops.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2018

New study identifies genetic basis for western corn rootworm resistance in maize

Researchers have identified regions of the genome contributing to resistance against western corn rootworm, with ascorbate biosynthesis and nematode-attracting compounds implicated in the process. The study's findings offer hope for developing native resistance mechanisms into elite hybrids without using transgenics.

Insecticides for malaria vectors

A study of over 7,500 children in Sudan found that indoor nonpyrethroid insecticide spraying was more effective at reducing malaria incidence than pyrethroid spraying. The increased cost of using nonpyrethroid insecticides is relatively low, suggesting that resistance to pyrethroids may be driving the switch.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2017

Refining pesticides to kill pests, not bees

Scientists at Michigan State University have discovered a key to designing more selective pesticides that target pests without killing beneficial insects like bees. By understanding the molecular differences between mammals and insects, they hope to create new chemicals that spare bees while effectively controlling agricultural pests.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 21, 2017

Protein restricts sap uptake by aphids

Researchers at Umea University have discovered a plant protein that limits aphid feeding behavior, resulting in reduced sap ingestion and fewer offspring on resistant plants. The protein is thought to occlude the narrow food canal of the aphid, providing a new avenue for developing more sustainable crop resistance.

SourceUmea University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateOct 10, 2017

Cracking the code of megapests

Scientists have identified over 17,000 protein coding genes in the genomes of two closely related megapests, providing a detailed understanding of their genetics and potential weaknesses. This information could lead to the development of new pest management strategies and reduce control costs by billions of dollars annually.

BASF unveils new class of insecticide for malaria prevention

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended BASF's Interceptor(R) G2, a long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito net containing chlorfenapyr, for malaria prevention. The new product is the first to be approved from a new chemical class since the 1980s and offers a promising solution to combat malaria resistance.

SourceBASF SE·JournalMalaria Journal·DateJul 13, 2017