A REVIEW OF ALTERNATIVE METHODS FOR CONTROLLING THE MAIZE LEAF WEEVIL (TANYMECUS DILATICOLLIS) IN THE CONTEXT OF PESTICIDE RESTRICTIONS
Cristina Lumînare, Daniel Cojanu, Cristina Fătu
Pages: 117-130
Received: 10 Jul 2025
Published: 29 Dec 2025
DOI: 10.62991/AF1996755981
Views: 756
Downloads: 57
Abstract: The maize leaf weevil (Tanymecus dilaticollis Gyll., Coleoptera: Curculionidae) stands as one of the most damaging pests of maize in Romania and Eastern Europe. Historically, its control largely relied on neonicotinoid-based seed treatments. However, EU restrictions on these substances have made effective management increasingly challenging. This review critically examines alternative control strategies, including entomopathogenic fungi (Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae), microbial biopesticides (Bacillus thuringiensis), botanical extracts (e.g., neem oil), and agroecological approaches like crop rotation. It also explores the burgeoning role of kairomone-based traps and emerging sensor technologies for improved monitoring and early warning systems. While these methods show promise, their efficacy often depends on environmental conditions and application techniques, and their economic viability needs further assessment. The findings underscore the critical importance of integrating these alternatives into a robust Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy for sustainable maize protection, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced monitoring tools, comprehensive economic evaluations, and farmer-ready solutions.
Keywords: tanymecus dilaticollis, neonicotinoid alternatives, entomopathogenic fungi, biopesticides, botanical extracts, kairomones, ipm, sensor monitoring, pre
Cite this article: Cristina Lumînare, Daniel Cojanu, Cristina Fătu. A REVIEW OF ALTERNATIVE METHODS FOR CONTROLLING THE MAIZE LEAF WEEVIL (TANYMECUS DILATICOLLIS) IN THE CONTEXT OF PESTICIDE RESTRICTIONS. Journal of International Scientific Publications: Agriculture & Food 13, 117-130 (2025). https://doi.org/10.62991/AF1996755981
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