Botanical Insecticides as an Alternative to Control Stink Bugs in Agriculture
摘要
Botanical insecticides have stood out as an alternative to synthetic chemicals for integrated pest management (IPM). The growing adoption of this alternative, aligned with IPM, promises to boost the bioinsecticide market, representing a sustainable transition in global agriculture. Although the diversity of plants is enormous, there are still few species tested for IPM, mainly for phytophagous stink bugs, which are among the most agriculturally relevant insect pests. In this chapter, we address the lethal and sublethal effects of botanical products already verified on phytophagous stink bugs. Brazil, the USA, Indonesia, India, Argentina and Italy are prominent in this area of research. The insecticidal potential of plants such as Piperaceae, Meliaceae, Lamiaceae and Annonaceae in controlling stink bugs stands out. Among the insecticidal effects are lethality, repellency, ovicidal effects, cytological effects and reproduction inhibition. Compounds such as dilapiol, azadirachtin and acetogenins are among the substances with the potential to be used to control phytophagous stink bugs. However, the need for more in-depth research into the biochemical and systemic effects and selectivity of these products is highlighted, considering the possible impacts on non-target organisms and the variation in the components of secondary metabolites. The use of botanical insecticides to control phytophagous stink bugs is promising as an effective alternative to be used in IPM. However, we must consider some challenges, such as the need for more research, mainly evaluating the mechanisms of action of the compounds on stink bugs, the absence of uniform methodological protocols and the feasibility of use on commercial level.