Developing essential oil based bioinsecticides against Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas, C., 1878) (Hempitera: Aphididae) in tomato crops

Faced with the limitations and negative impacts of pesticides on ecosystems and the environment, biopesticide emerged as a promising substitutive alternative to neurotoxic insecticides. Their success, however, hinges on the adoption of integrated measures to optimize their performance and the sustainability of cropping systems. The ADOPT-IPM project has been working in the European Union and China to help meet these objectives by developing, optimizing and implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) tools and practices. Amongst other alternatives, essential oil based biopesticides are being studied in Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech as alternative strategies to control Macrosiphum euphorbiae, a major pest of tomato crops. While recent studies have demonstrated the potential of essential oils against this pest under laboratory conditions, their applicability in crop conditions, particularly in greenhouses, remained restricted. This study explores the potential of two essential oils, Lantana camara and Lippia alba, against M. euphorbiae in an approach involving both greenhouse and laboratory trials. The efficacy of these EOs as insecticides and repellents is assessed by determining their lethal effects (LC50) and analyzing their influence on aphids’ behavior through dual-choice bioassays. Potential side effects on beneficial insects are then evaluated, focusing on the ladybird Adalia bipunctata (Coleoptera : Coccinellidae). Lastly, these results will be linked to the EOs composition (characterized by GC-MS). Overall, these findings are expected to support future greenhouse experiments by providing insights into both aphid control and auxiliary insect safety.