Host plant resistance for the management of bemisia tabaci: A multi-crop survey with emphasis on tomato

Abstract

Control measures commonly used against insect pests in horticultural crops rely mainly on the use of pesticides, but these products are often toxic to the environment and to non-target species. Moreover, control of insects is difficult because many are polyphagous and develop insecticide resistance quickly. Also, the use of these compounds favors the development of resistant populations, rendering their application counter-productive in the long term. Consequently, there is a general opinion that the best way to solve the pest problem is by Integrated Pest Management (IPM), based on the rational and coordinated application of appropriate selective, economical and environmentally friendly techniques. As an example, prevention and management of virus-transmitting insects (specifically whiteflies) on horticultural crops was declared officially in 2004 as a public benefit issue in Spain. In this context, the use of more adequate control measures in place of conventional chemical control should be recommended when feasible for virus vector control. © Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2010.