Taking advantage of zoophytophagous-induced plant defenses to improve pest management in horticultural crops

Abstract

The growing global demand for food and the increasing challenges posed by climate change call for the development of innovative and sustainable strategies to enhance crop resilience against biotic and abiotic stressors. Harnessing natural plant defense mechanisms presents a promising alternative to conventional pest management, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. This thesis explores the role of zoophytophagous predators and herbivore-induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) in strengthening plant defenses and improving pest management. We investigate Nesidiocoris tenuis, a biological control agent, and its ability to enhance constitutive resistance in tomato plants. Our findings reveal that N. tenuis feeding induces the formation of type IV glandular trichomes and acylsugar production, mediated by jasmonic acid signaling, thereby improving resistance against whiteflies. Additionally, we assess the effects of (Z)-3-hexenyl propanoate [(Z)-3-HP], a green leaf volatile, on sweet pepper plants. Our findings reveal that (Z)-3-HP exposure upregulates key defense-related genes, enhances resistance to herbivorous pests and abiotic stress, boosts antioxidant activity, and improves plant adaptability to water-deficit conditions. By integrating natural enemies and HIPVs, this research advances sustainable pest management strategies that reinforce plant resilience while reducing environmental impact.