Molecular Entomology 2024, Vol.15, No.1, 23-31 http://emtoscipublisher.com/index.php/me 28 conservation biological control strategies underscores the importance of continued research and implementation of these methods to ensure the long-term health and productivity of sugarcane crops. 4 Challenges and Limitations The genetic complexity of sugarcane makes conventional breeding for pest resistance a challenging task. The lack of resistant genes in the sugarcane genome further complicates efforts to develop pest-resistant varieties through traditional breeding methods. Effective pest management in sugarcane requires the integration of various control methods, including biological, chemical, and cultural practices. Coordinating these methods to create an environment conducive to sugarcane growth while suppressing pest populations is a significant challenge (Bielza et al., 2020). The use of genetically engineered crops expressing insecticidal proteins, such as Bt proteins, has shown promise in controlling pests like the sugarcane borer. However, the evolution of insect resistance to these proteins poses a major limitation, necessitating strategies like high-dose expression and refuge areas to delay resistance development. Implementing biological control methods can be economically and practically challenging (Donga et al., 2020). For instance, the mass production and field application of natural enemies or entomopathogens require substantial investment and infrastructure. Additionally, the effectiveness of these methods can be influenced by environmental factors and the availability of labor for practices like mechanical removal of pests. By addressing these challenges and limitations, and to identify potential areas for future research and development (Carbonari et al., 2020). Biological control methods are considered environmentally friendly, yet they must be managed carefully. Impact on Natural Enemy Populations: Chemical insecticides often disrupt beneficial insect populations: Insecticide sprays for Melanaphis sacchari control reduce natural enemy populations and impact their effectiveness (Lytle and Huseth, 2021). The use of biological insecticides like Metarhizium anisopliae is less harmful to non-target species (Oliveira et al., 2022). Sustainable Habitat Management: Conservation biological control through habitat engineering offers sustainable pest management: Strategic integration of lac cultivation provides natural reservoirs of parasitoids and enhances pest control (Roy et al., 2019). Overcoming technical challenges, ensuring economic viability, and managing environmental impacts are crucial for the sustainable expansion of biological control methods in sugarcane pest management. 5 Future Directions 5.1 Identify areas needing further research in sugarcane pest management Despite the progress in biological control, several areas require further research to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of these methods (Aya et al., 2019). For instance, the development of improved rearing techniques for natural enemies, such as Trichogramma spp., has been crucial in Brazil's success in BC (Javal et al., 2019). However, there is a need for more extensive bioecological studies to optimize mass rearing and field application of these agents (Verma et al., 2022). Additionally, understanding the interactions between different pest management strategies, such as the integration of cultural, physical, and biological controls, is essential for developing comprehensive integrated pest management (IPM) programs (Iqbal et al., 2021). 5.2 Emerging technologies to aid biological control Advancements in genetic engineering and biotechnology offer promising avenues for enhancing biological control in sugarcane. Techniques such as host-induced gene silencing (HIGS) and CRISPR/Cas9 have shown potential in developing insect-resistant transgenic sugarcane varieties (Krishna et al., 2023). These technologies can complement traditional BC methods by reducing the reliance on chemical pesticides and enhancing the crop's inherent resistance to pests. Moreover, the application of optimal control theory and dynamic systems modeling can help in formulating effective pest control strategies through the introduction of natural enemies (Dias et al., 2021).
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