| Integrative Approaches for Managing Rhizoglyphus robini: A Synthesis of Physiological, Microbial, and Botanical Interventions |
| Paper ID : 1141-IPCA5 |
| Authors |
|
Hosein Samadieh *1, Majid Talebi2, Jahangir Khajehali3, Ali NaserZadeh2 1Department of Biotechnology and Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran, 84156-83111 2Department of Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran 3Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran |
| Abstract |
| Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is one of the most valuable spices, renowned for its distinct color, aroma, and flavor, and belongs to the Iridaceae family. This plant is primarily cultivated in Iran and holds significant importance in agriculture and the economy. One of the major pests affecting saffron, the saffron bulb mite, Rhizoglyphus robini, causes yellowing, reduced growth, and ultimately the destruction of saffron corms. Challenges, including resistance to pesticides and adverse environmental impacts, accompany the use of chemical acaricides to manage this pest. This review article critically evaluates scientific advancements in the management of R. robini, focusing on three key approaches: physiological, microbial, and botanical strategies. From a physiological perspective, mechanisms of resistance to acaricides, such as increased activity of detoxification enzymes (e.g., esterases, cytochrome P450s, and glutathione S-transferases), mutations in target sites, and behavioral adaptations, are discussed. In the microbial context, the role of intracellular symbionts like Cardinium and the absence of Wolbachia in Iranian populations of R. robini are explored as novel targets for microbial pest control. The potential of combining antibiotics with acaricides to enhance pesticide efficacy is also examined. Regarding botanical strategies, plant-derived compounds such as essential oils from Foeniculum vulgare and antioxidant compounds like quercetin have demonstrated significant acaricidal properties, with minimal toxicity to beneficial predators like Gaeolaelaps aculeifer. Furthermore, the study explores the effects of heavy metals, such as lead and nickel, on the sensitivity of R. robini to pesticides. The results indicate that heavy metals can increase the pest's susceptibility to propargite and chlorpyrifos, while reducing its sensitivity to abamectin, particularly through modulation of detoxification enzyme activity. Finally, the paper proposes an innovative integrated pest management (IPM) approach that combines these physiological, microbial, and botanical strategies to combat R. robini and counter pesticide resistance effectively. This approach includes the use of antibiotics (e.g., tetracycline) to enhance pest sensitivity to pesticides, the application of plant-based compounds like Foeniculum vulgare essential oils to minimize harm to beneficial organisms, and the promotion of microbial symbionts like Cardinium to reduce pest resistance and improve pesticide efficacy. This integrated strategy aims to reduce environmental impact, preserve biodiversity, and enhance long-term efficacy in managing R. robini, offering a sustainable solution for saffron farming and agriculture. |
| Keywords |
| Rhizoglyphus robini, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Acaricide Resistance, Botanical Acaricides, Microbial Control Agents |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Oral Presentation) |
