Plant-Derived Pest Control: Molecular, Ecological & Technological Perspectives

Sathyananth M

Plant Molecular Biology Research Unit, Department of Botany, St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai- - 627002, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India.

Jenifer C

Plant Molecular Biology Research Unit, Department of Botany, St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai- - 627002, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India.

T. Leon Stephan Raj *

Plant Molecular Biology Research Unit, Department of Botany, St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai- - 627002, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India.

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.


Abstract

Aims: To explore and synthesize current knowledge on botanical pest management, emphasizing plant-pest interactions from evolutionary, molecular, and ecological perspectives. This study evaluates plant-based compounds and biotechnological approaches as sustainable alternatives to synthetic pesticides.

Study Design: A comprehensive review of scientific literature on botanical pest management, focusing on interdisciplinary approaches.

Methodology: The study reviews data on plant chemical defenses, molecular interactions, and biotechnological innovations for sustainable pest control. It analyzes plant-derived compounds' capacity to disrupt pest physiology with minimal ecological impact. Insights from genomics, molecular biology, and ecology are integrated to propose a sustainable pest management framework.

Results: Botanical pesticides demonstrated effectiveness in targeting pest physiological pathways while reducing ecological disturbances. Molecular studies revealed significant interactions between plant-derived compounds and pest systems, supported by advanced biotechnological methods. Genomic and ecological research underscored a balanced approach to enhancing agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental harm.

Conclusion: Botanical pest management is a promising, sustainable alternative to synthetic pesticides. It addresses current agricultural challenges while fostering long-term ecological sustainability. The findings highlight the potential of plant-based strategies to advance precise, eco-friendly pest control methods aligned with global sustainability goals. Further research is essential to validate and expand these solutions across diverse agricultural systems.

Keywords: Botanical pesticides, ecological interactions, pest management, plant defense mechanisms, sustainable agriculture


How to Cite

M, Sathyananth, Jenifer C, and T. Leon Stephan Raj. 2024. “Plant-Derived Pest Control: Molecular, Ecological & Technological Perspectives”. Journal of Agriculture and Ecology Research International 25 (6):263-77. https://doi.org/10.9734/jaeri/2024/v25i6657.