Institut für Biologischen Pflanzenschutz
Microbial biocontrol agents, such as baculoviruses, are a cornerstone for insect pest control in organic production of different crops and they are of steeply increasing importance as alternatives to chemical pesticides in integrated production systems. The use of baculoviruses biocontrol agent is highly effective, environmentally sound and safe to humans. An increased use of baculoviruses, however, elevates the risk that target insects develop resistance, as it was noted for codling moth Cydia pomonella vs. CpGV in Germany and the tea tortrix Adoxophyes honmai vs. AdhoNPV in Japan. In Germany alone more than 60 organic apple plantations of CpGV resistance were identified. The project aims to elucidate the baculovirus resistance mechanisms in the two virus host systems. The partners will combine their methodological expertise to identify the molecular mechanism(s) of resistance by studying receptor interaction and apoptosis reaction. Based on novel genome analyses tools they will further identify candidates of host genes (or genetic markers) involved in baculovirus resistance and develop methods for a molecular resistance monitoring. Achieving these aims will allow developing a fast and predictive resistance surveillance. The obtained results will enable us to create efficient resistance management strategies for a sustainable use of baculoviruses in organic and integrated crop production.
Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture
