Impact of climate change on pests of wheat and maize

Abstract Aims : This study aims to synthesize evidence on the impact of climate change on the major pests and diseases of wheat ( Triticum aestivum ) and maize ( Zea mays ) to support evidence-based decision making and policy development for adaptive pest management. Review methodology : A systematic literature review was conducted across multiple academic databases (Web of Science, Scopus, CAB Abstracts, Google Scholar) and authoritative institutional reports (FAO, IPCC). Relevant English-language peer-reviewed studies were identified using keyword combinations (e.g., “climate change” OR “global warming” AND “crop pests” OR “pest outbreaks”) and subjected to two-stage screening (title/abstract and full-text) based on predefined eligibility criteria such as theme relevance, study type, methodological rigor and geographic scope. Data capturing the context of the study (e.g., geographic location, environmental context), impacts (e.g., indicators of biology, distribution, migration), and management practices are compiled from those studies that meet the predetermined criteria. Mechanisms to minimize publication bias and maintain consistency by using standardized tools, calibration and training, and documentation and audit trail, are applied throughout the review process. Main findings : Wheat’s key pests/diseases include leaf rust, barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV), while maize’s major threats are ear rots, European corn borer, and Fall Armyworm. Climate change exacerbates these pests/diseases by expanding geographic ranges, accelerating life cycles, increasing overwintering survival, and amplifying extreme weather impacts. For each degree of global mean surface warming, global yield losses of wheat and maize due to pests/diseases are projected to increase by 10–25%, with temperate regions facing the most acute losses (wheat > maize). Traditional pest control techniques are challenged by reduced host resistance, increased pesticide resistance, and disrupted prey-predator synchronization. Principal conclusions : Climate change-driven pest/disease intensification threatens global food security, particularly for wheat and maize. To enhance resilience, traditional pest management measures must be revitalized and integrated with innovative technologies and adaptive strategies (e.g., resistant cultivar breeding, climate-smart integrated pest management).