Genome Studies for Effective Coconut Pest Identification and Management
摘要
Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) is a perennial plantation crop in the coastal ecosystem, providing livelihood and economic opportunities for millions of people worldwide. Both biotic and abiotic factors highly influence the production and productivity of coconut. In synergy with the changing climate and related uncertainties, pests and diseases play an important role in reducing the nut yield as well as the quality of coconut. Major pests of coconut are coconut rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros Linn.), red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier)), black-headed caterpillar Opisina arenosella Walker, white grub (Leucopholis coneophora Burm.) and coconut eriophyid mite (Aceria guerreronis Keifer). Correct identification of pests is essential for framing their management strategies and understanding the defender system associated. Researchers seek advanced methodologies for the identification of new and emerging pests to tackle their negative impact on crops. The application of cutting-edge science tools in the current era of bioinformatics and artificial intelligence enabled researchers to utilize molecular techniques for exploring the genome most properly. Genome studies help in the identification of pests, their population dynamics, genetic diversity, biology and adaptation, development of prediction models, population genomics, and functional genomics leading to sustainable pest management strategies. Advancements in these arenas are being exploited to evolve intelligent pest management solutions efficiently and feasibly. An insight into the genome studies and their utilization in the identification and management of coconut pests is given in this chapter.