Molecular Entomology 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 78-86 http://emtoscipublisher.com/index.php/me 79 characterized by longer miRNAs, while the early stages (first to third instar larvae) and late stages (fourth instar, prepupae, pupae, and adult) have distinct miRNA profiles. This beetle's ability to adapt to different environments and host plants is partly due to its genetic makeup, which includes a high level of nucleotide diversity and rapidly evolving transposable elements (Schoville et al., 2017). Figure 1Leptinotarsa decemlineatalarva (Photo credit: Rondon et al., 2021) 2.2 Feeding habits and host plants The Colorado potato beetle primarily feeds on solanaceous plants, including potatoes, eggplants, and tomatoes (Palli, 2014; Wang et al., 2020). Both larvae and adults are capable of causing significant damage by defoliating plants, which can lead to substantial yield losses. The beetle has developed various physiological adaptations to its host plants, such as the suppression of plant defense mechanisms through frass-associated bacteria (Gao et al., 2022). These bacteria, including Acinetobacter and Citrobacter, inhibit the expression of genes associated with jasmonic acid-mediated defense signaling pathways in potato plants, thereby enhancing larval growth. 2.3 Environmental factors influencing spread The spread of the Colorado potato beetle is influenced by several environmental factors, including climate and host plant availability. Climate change is expected to expand the beetle's range into northern regions and other areas with suitable environmental conditions (Wang et al., 2017). The availability of wild host plants, such as Solanum rostratum, also facilitates the beetle's spread by providing additional food sources. The beetle's movement is influenced by pheromones produced by both males and females, which play a role in attracting mates and coordinating feeding activities (Molnár et al., 2017; Haber and Weber, 2021). The male-produced aggregation pheromone attracts both sexes, while the female-produced sex pheromone specifically attracts males. By understanding the biology and behavior of the Colorado potato beetle, researchers can develop more effective strategies for managing this pest and preventing its spread. 3 Traditional Control Methods 3.1 Chemical pesticides Chemical pesticides have been the cornerstone of Colorado Potato Beetle (CPB) management for decades. Various classes of insecticides, including organophosphates, carbamates, pyrethroids, and neonicotinoids, have been employed to control CPB populations effectively. However, the efficacy of these chemicals has diminished over time due to the beetle's remarkable ability to develop resistance (Figure 2) (Balaško et al., 2020; Molnár and Rakosy-Tican, 2021). For instance, pyrethroids, once highly effective, now face significant resistance issues, necessitating higher doses and more frequent applications, which are unsustainable and environmentally detrimental.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==