Effects of Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima) on Parasitoid and Predator Diversity and Abundance in Agroecosystems Especially in Rice

Abstract

Rice, a staple food for a significant portion of the global population, faces substantial yield losses due to insect pests. These losses, estimated to be between 25 to 50%, pose a serious threat to food security, particularly in developing countries. Insectary plants play a crucial role in conservation biological control programs by providing essential resources such as shelter, food, and oviposition sites for beneficial insects. These resources are particularly important for omnivorous predators, which require both prey and plant materials for their survival and reproduction. Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima), a flowering plant known for attracting beneficial insects, can potentially enhance biological control in rice agroecosystems. By attracting and providing resources for these natural enemies of pests, Sweet Alyssum can contribute to regulating pest populations and reducing the need for chemical pesticides. The mechanisms through which Sweet Alyssum enhances the presence of beneficial insects include the emission of floral volatiles, which act as attractants, and the production of nectar, which serves as a food source for adult insects. Incorporating Sweet Alyssum into integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, such as implementing flower strips, intercropping, or border cropping, can significantly enhance the diversity and abundance of parasitoids and predators in agroecosystems. This, in turn, substantially impacts pest control efficacy, highlighting the potential of Sweet Alyssum as a valuable tool for sustainable and environmentally friendly pest management in rice cultivation. This integration aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable and regenerative agriculture, offering a pathway towards a more balanced and resilient agricultural landscape.