This thesis studies the behavioural responses of Halyomorpha halys (brown marmorated stink bug) to sulphur-based compounds and water stress conditions. Through a series of laboratory, semi-field, and greenhouse experiments, the study explores the potential of these factors in sustainable pest management, particularly within IPM frameworks. Five different sulphur-based compounds were tested for their effect on H. halys. Behavioural arena experiment, potted plants experiment, no choice test and experiments to determine water stress were conducted. Results show that sulphur-based products, generally repelled H. halys, with stronger effects observed in semi-field environments than in laboratory tests. Feeding activity, measured by stylet sheaths on green beans, was significantly reduced by sulphur treatments, indicating a feeding deterrent effect. Additionally, semi-field trials clearly preferred well-watered apple trees over water-stressed ones, suggesting that controlled water stress could be a potential pest management strategy. The study concludes that combining sulphur-based compounds with water stress management could serve as an effective approach for reducing H. halys infestations. However, further research is recommended to assess long-term efficacy under field conditions and to explore plant physiological responses under stress. This thesis contributes to the understanding of H. halys behaviour and highlights the potential of sulphur-based products as sustainable pest control tools.
An experimental analysis on the impact of plant water-stress and sulphur application on olfactory responses in Halyomorpha halys
JAFRI, SYEDA TAHIRA FATIMA
2023/2024
Abstract
This thesis studies the behavioural responses of Halyomorpha halys (brown marmorated stink bug) to sulphur-based compounds and water stress conditions. Through a series of laboratory, semi-field, and greenhouse experiments, the study explores the potential of these factors in sustainable pest management, particularly within IPM frameworks. Five different sulphur-based compounds were tested for their effect on H. halys. Behavioural arena experiment, potted plants experiment, no choice test and experiments to determine water stress were conducted. Results show that sulphur-based products, generally repelled H. halys, with stronger effects observed in semi-field environments than in laboratory tests. Feeding activity, measured by stylet sheaths on green beans, was significantly reduced by sulphur treatments, indicating a feeding deterrent effect. Additionally, semi-field trials clearly preferred well-watered apple trees over water-stressed ones, suggesting that controlled water stress could be a potential pest management strategy. The study concludes that combining sulphur-based compounds with water stress management could serve as an effective approach for reducing H. halys infestations. However, further research is recommended to assess long-term efficacy under field conditions and to explore plant physiological responses under stress. This thesis contributes to the understanding of H. halys behaviour and highlights the potential of sulphur-based products as sustainable pest control tools.File | Dimensione | Formato | |
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https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12608/70920