Fourth International Bemisia Workshop International Whitefly Genomics Workshop
Bemisia tabaci research: Past -present – future
1 Tel Aviv University, Department of Zoology, Israel. Correspondence: dangr@post.tau.ac.il
2 CSIRO Division of Entomology, Australia
Bemisia tabaci was described as a pest in 1889 and has maintained that status ever since. Damage ranges from direct plant sucking to honeydew production and plant contamination through virus transmission. Research followed damage-related developments. We review it in relation to the pest’s identity, plant relationships, natural enemies and management, pointing out past research directions and possible directions for future research. Principal research on the identity of B. tabaci began with the recognition of more than one biotype differing in life history parameters, host plant associations, plant-related damage and insecticide resistance. Following mapping of the world situation, we have reached a phase in which finer meanings of the biotype identity can serve as landmarks for their affinity and pestiferous characteristics. Plant relationships, combined with the study of insect behavior, probably constitute the most meaningful subject on which research can bring about better management of B. tabaci. The discovery that plant metabolism is manipulated by whiteflies and the existence and action of PR proteins and of other plant defensive chemicals, are landmarks that should be followed. Their mode of action should be better understood and serve as bases for future plant manipulation and breeding. The initial production of plant stimulators and their utilization for overcoming whitefly-caused problems are steps in this direction. Study of ecological parameters such as influences of field sizes and shapes and the behavior of the organisms involved, may also help to improve whitefly management. Natural enemy exploitation has moved from utilization of spontaneous whitefly decimation by local fungi, parasitoids and predators through the manipulation of available biological control agents to the screening and selection of globally occurring organisms. This has provided excellent greenhouse control and should encompass more of the available unstudied organisms and broaden its scope to all facets of B. tabaci pest conditions. Natural enemy utilization should take into account the host plant relationships as well as the available insecticidal solutions. Controls strategies presently take into account the available enemies and insecticides. Plant resistance-inducing materials and plant stimulators are just coming into use. With proper research, the integration of molecular technology, proper plant breeding and utilization of additional natural enemies, better B. tabaci management can be achieved.
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