Can genome comparison provide insights into how different plant pests succeed with divergent lifestyles?

Genome comparison can reveal critical insights into the divergent success strategies of plant pests. This dissertation focuses on whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci), a significant pest complex causing substantial crop losses. By comparative genomic and proteomic analyses, it is possible to identify genetic traits and mechanisms that enable whitefly’s survival and adaptability to various phytochemicals produced by host plants. Understanding plant-pest interactions can inform pest management strategies and support agricultural sustainability. This dissertation aims to enhance crop resilience through targeted approaches, including RNA interference and transgenic methods, to mitigate the impact of whiteflies and other herbivorous insects.