Exploring The Link Between Host Plant Adaptation and Metabolic Resistance in T. Urticae

Abstract

This dissertation delves into the interactions, between Tetranychus urticae, a phytophagous pest in agriculture and its host plants that feeds on in different environmental stressors within a hydroponic setup. In chapter 1 we explore how T. urticae adapts to host plants. Develops resistance to acaricides through metabolic processes. It highlights how the mite can modify gene expression linked to detoxification enzymes enhancing its ability to resistance chemicals. The review also focuses upon the impact of this pest its rapid reproductive rate and the effectiveness of pest management (IPM) practices combining biological, cultural and chemical methods. Chapter 2 explore the evaluating botanical acaricides as an alternative option compared to synthetic pesticides for controlling resistant populations of T. urticae, which cause substantial economic damage to various crops worldwide. Given its short life cycle and high fertility rates T. urticae has built resistance against large acmode of action. The research assesses the performance of eight oil or soap based acaricides like soybean oil, rosemary oil, peppermint oil, neem oil and mineral oil on both susceptible and resistant T. urticae populations. The results highlight the potential of acaricides in IPM strategies while emphasizing the need for alternative control methods, to environmental and health issues associated with synthetic acaricides. In addition, chapter 3 investigates into the relationship, between T. urticae and host plants under stresses like salinity and exposure to acaricides. It explores how these stressors impact the levels of plant defensive hormones such as abscisic acid (ABA) salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) affecting the mites feeding behavior and survival tactics. This chapter sheds light on the pathways influenced by T. urticae. Discusses different pest control

methods that aim to reduce environmental harm. It also highlights the use of hydroponic systems as a tool for studying plant mite interactions in research settings. The discoveries suggest that a deeper understanding of host plant adaptation dynamics and acaricides resistance could guide agricultural practices potentially leading to targeted interventions that disrupt the pests life cycle. Collectively these chapters enhance our comprehension of the relationship between T. urticae and its host plants underscoring the importance of management strategies that leverage the pests special adaptations and interactions, with its environment.