Exploring innovative strategies to control aphids: meta-analysis and a critical view on what we have and what the future is

In the ongoing pursuit of sustainable farming techniques, the constant fight against aphids remains an essential frontier. Aphids are well-known agricultural pests and they continue to jeopardize global crop production, necessitating an immediate demand for sustainable pest control methods. Conventional chemical insecticides not only harm the quality of crops but also cause environmental damage. This comprehensive review starts with a meta-analysis using PRISMA approach, to present innovative, environmentally friendly alternative technologies, the latest developments and advances in aphid control that can reduce pressure on the environment and contribute to a more sustainable aphid control. Good alternative technologies include bioengineered nanoparticles, RNAi and CRISPR/Cas9. In addition, there has been progress in the existing use of natural enemies with parasitoids and predators with increased efficacy, as well as the area of microbial control of aphids with entomopathogenic fungi and bacteria. Because monitoring is very important and a cornerstone of integrated pest management, the latest advances in artificial intelligence and deep learning in aphid control are helping to reduce pressure on the environment and contribute to a reduction in the use of chemicals, supporting the preservation of biodiversity and sustainability, which fits with the policy in many continents. Altogether, this paper aims to provide a valuable guidance for researchers, practitioners and policymakers who are involved in the complex dynamics of aphid control in agriculture.