Molecular Entomology 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 179-191 http://emtoscipublisher.com/index.php/me 188 6.2 Genetic engineering for enhanced pest resistance Genetic engineering has significantly transformed maize pest management through the development of Genetically Modified (GM) crops that express pest-resistant traits. Bt maize, which expresses Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) toxins, has become a cornerstone of IPM, offering effective control against lepidopteran pests like the fall armyworm. The latest advances in transgenic technology include the development of crops that express multiple Bt toxins, targeting a broader range of pests and reducing the likelihood of resistance development (Mabubu et al., 2016). New gene-editing technologies, such as CRISPR-Cas9, offer even greater precision in enhancing pest resistance in maize. Researchers are using CRISPR to modify specific genes involved in pest resistance, enabling the development of crops that are more resilient to a variety of biotic stresses, including insect pests and fungal diseases. CRISPR also allows for the stacking of resistance traits, which can provide multi-layered protection against different pests without the need for external chemical inputs (Svitashev et al., 2015). In addition to pest resistance, genetic engineering is being used to improve other agronomic traits in maize, such as drought tolerance and nutrient efficiency, which further enhances the sustainability of pest management strategies. These genetically engineered crops can be integrated with biopesticides and other IPM techniques to create a more holistic approach to maize farming (Yassitepe et al., 2021). 6.3 Integrating biopesticides with precision agriculture Precision agriculture technologies are revolutionizing pest management by enabling more targeted and efficient application of biopesticides. Tools such as GPS-guided sprayers, drones, and remote sensing technologies allow farmers to apply biopesticides precisely where pest populations are concentrated, minimizing waste and reducing costs. These technologies also help monitor pest populations in real time, allowing for early intervention and reducing the need for blanket pesticide applications (Gassmann and Clifton, 2017). Remote sensing, in particular, is used to detect pest infestations through aerial imagery and sensor data. By identifying hotspots of pest activity, farmers can apply biopesticides more efficiently, ensuring that they are only used where necessary. This reduces the environmental impact of pesticide use and helps protect beneficial organisms in non-infested areas. The integration of biopesticides with precision agriculture is a key innovation for sustainable farming, offering more effective pest control with fewer resources (Andorf et al., 2019). Furthermore, precision agriculture technologies can be combined with other IPM practices, such as crop rotation and biological controls, to create a comprehensive pest management system. This integration maximizes the efficacy of biopesticides and ensures a more balanced and sustainable approach to pest management (Akutse et al., 2020). 6.4 Prospects for global adoption of biopesticides in IPM The global adoption of biopesticides in IPM is gaining momentum as more countries recognize their benefits for sustainable agriculture. Biopesticides are increasingly being integrated into national pest management programs, especially in regions where the overuse of chemical pesticides has led to environmental degradation and pest resistance. For example, in sub-Saharan Africa, biopesticides are being promoted as part of the solution to manage the fall armyworm, which has devastated maize crops across the continent. These initiatives are helping to raise awareness of the efficacy and safety of biopesticides among farmers and policymakers (Bateman et al., 2021). Despite these positive trends, several barriers remain to the widespread adoption of biopesticides globally. Regulatory hurdles, inconsistent availability, and the higher cost of biopesticides compared to chemical alternatives can slow their adoption, especially among smallholder farmers. To address these challenges, governments need to streamline regulatory processes and provide financial incentives for the development and distribution of biopesticides (Soetopo and Alouw, 2023). Looking forward, the global market for biopesticides is expected to grow as research and development efforts continue to enhance their efficacy and reduce costs. Public-private partnerships and international collaborations
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