Plant-Derived Pest Control: Molecular, Ecological & Technological Perspectives

Aims: To explore and synthesize current knowledge on botanical pest management, emphasizing plant-pest interactions from evolutionary, molecular, and ecological perspectives. This study evaluates plant-based compounds and biotechnological approaches as sustainable alternatives to synthetic pesticides. Study Design: A comprehensive review of scientific literature on botanical pest management, focusing on interdisciplinary approaches. Methodology: The study reviews data on plant chemical defenses, molecular interactions, and biotechnological innovations for sustainable pest control. It analyzes plant-derived compounds' capacity to disrupt pest physiology with minimal ecological impact. Insights from genomics, molecular biology, and ecology are integrated to propose a sustainable pest management framework. Results: Botanical pesticides demonstrated effectiveness in targeting pest physiological pathways while reducing ecological disturbances. Molecular studies revealed significant interactions between plant-derived compounds and pest systems, supported by advanced biotechnological methods. Genomic and ecological research underscored a balanced approach to enhancing agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental harm. Conclusion: Botanical pest management is a promising, sustainable alternative to synthetic pesticides. It addresses current agricultural challenges while fostering long-term ecological sustainability. The findings highlight the potential of plant-based strategies to advance precise, eco-friendly pest control methods aligned with global sustainability goals. Further research is essential to validate and expand these solutions across diverse agricultural systems.