Laboratory trials
Insecticide resistance is becoming increasingly common as pests quickly adapt to new chemicals introduced to eradicate them. Therefore, regular testing of pest populations is essential to assess their sensitivity to insecticides, allowing adjustments in chemical usage and reducing the risk of resistance development.
Laboratory tests on insecticide resistance are also employed to develop new chemicals for pest control and to evaluate the effectiveness of existing ones. These tests are a vital component of integrated pest management, which encompasses various strategies for pest control, including biological control, the cultivation of tolerant plant varieties, and the application of pesticides.
Tests According to IRAC Methods
The Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) promotes integrated pest management, incorporating a combination of methods and strategies to reduce the need for pesticide use and to prevent unnecessary harm to the environment and human health.
IRAC offers guidelines for using insecticides in alignment with sustainable development principles, and it also assists in educating farmers, consultants, and other stakeholders on issues related to insecticide resistance. Furthermore, IRAC supports research focused on developing new insecticides and pest management strategies, as well as on detecting and diagnosing insecticide resistance.
Semifield Trials
Semifield trials are a type of experimental research used to test the effectiveness of pesticides in real field conditions, but within a controlled environment. These trials are typically conducted in enclosed spaces such as greenhouses or semi-open areas where controlled environmental conditions are established. In these settings, field-like conditions are simulated, with plants cultivated to attract specific pests or diseases. Various types of pesticides are then applied to test their efficacy and effectiveness in pest control.
Semifield trials are valuable because they allow for pesticide testing in realistic conditions, where multiple factors, such as weather conditions and soil types, can be taken into account. This type of trial also provides a controlled environment for studying the efficacy of pesticides against specific pests. They are often a part of the pesticide approval process, which involves testing pesticides at various developmental stages to ensure their safety and effectiveness. Additionally, semifield trials are beneficial for developing new pesticides and pest management technologies, contributing to reduced chemical use in agriculture and environmental conservation.
