4s2b: Insect problems in a changing world: reduce pesticide use by breeding for insect resistant plants under salinity stress

Abstract

Climate change has profound effects on crop production, for example through more salt intrusion in deltas. In addition, pest and disease pressure will change. Both salinity and insect problems can cause large yield losses in plants. Currently, the main way to prevent losses caused by insects is through frequent application of pesticides. However, pesticide use is detrimental for humans and the environment, and alternatives are needed. To reduce pesticide use and to increase yield stability even under saline conditions, growers would benefit from plant varieties that are resistant against pests and tolerant to salinity stress. Importantly, abiotic and biotic stresses interact, and should not only be considered as independent problems. In this study, our objective was to identify pepper (Capsicum sp.) varieties that are salt-tolerant, and/or resistant to the silver leaf whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, one of the most damaging insects on pepper. In addition, we aimed to study the interaction of salinity stress and insect resistance.