Semiochemical-based strategies for tea mosquito bug management: Advances, gaps and emerging strategies
摘要
Tea Mosquito Bugs (TMB), Helopeltis spp. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae), are serious pests of several tropical and subtropical crops, notably cashew, tea, and cocoa. The reliance on chemical insecticides has led to the development of insecticide resistance, ecological disruption, and concerns about residues, necessitating the need for alternative strategies. Compared to other insect orders, the use of semiochemicals in the management of true bugs remains underdeveloped, primarily due to delays in identifying potential pheromones or behaviorally active volatiles. This review focuses on the role of semiochemicals, particularly plant volatile organic compounds and pheromones, in the sustainable management of Helopeltis spp. It highlights advances in the identification, behavioral validation, and field application of volatile cues, with emphasis on pest detection, mass trapping, and behavioral disruption. The review also discusses the insect's chemical ecology, olfactory mechanisms, and the tools used in semiochemical research. Current knowledge gaps and prospects, such as the exploration of microbial volatiles and host-specific blends, are outlined to guide future research. While host plant volatiles have multiple ecological roles, this review predominantly focuses on their function in host location and attraction in Helopeltis, rather than on broader aspects such as defence signalling or inter-plant communication. This synthesis supports the integration of semiochemical-based strategies into IPM, offering targeted, eco-friendly solutions for managing TMB in perennial cropping systems.