About this Research Topic
Invasive insect species pose a significant threat to ecosystems worldwide, driven by factors such as climate change and international trade. Historically, climate has been a primary facilitator for the establishment and acclimatization of exotic species, with rising temperatures further expanding the range of environments where these species can thrive. Countries with strategic geographical locations often serve as major hubs for international trade, inadvertently becoming key entry points for invasive species. Imported plants and plant products frequently carry pests, increasing the risk of new introductions. Recent studies have highlighted the challenges posed by these invasive species, emphasizing the need for comprehensive research to understand and mitigate their impact on ecosystems and economies.
While native natural enemies (e.g., fungi, bacteria, nematodes, and insects) have shown potential in adapting to and controlling invasive populations, there remains a gap in understanding the full extent of these interactions and the ecological balance they can restore. Recent advances indicate that these natural enemies can effectively reduce invasive populations below harmful thresholds, contributing to ecological resilience. This research topic aims to compile a diverse range of studies exploring the challenges and responses associated with invasive insect species and to investigate how nature itself, through native natural enemies, has responded to these introductions.
By examining both the internal (biotic) and external (environmental) responses, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms by which native species adapt to and control invasive populations, ultimately contributing to ecological balance and informing future management strategies. Key questions include understanding the drivers behind the introduction of phytophagous species, their acclimatization dynamics, and the role of their natural enemies in managing invasive pests.
To gather further insights into the dynamics of invasive insect species and their natural control mechanisms, we invite authors to submit original research articles, reviews, case studies, and short communications. Contributions should address, but are not limited to, the following themes: Reports of new invasive insect species and their natural enemies (indigenous or non-native) Identification and taxonomy of invasive species Population dynamics and acclimatization studies Ecological and economic impacts of invasive species Phytosanitary assessments and management strategies Contributions should focus on both the direct effects of invasive insects and the natural mechanisms that control their populations. By addressing these themes, this article collection aims to provide a holistic understanding of invasive insect management and contribute to the development of effective control strategies, enhancing ecological resilience and reducing the environmental and economic impact of invasive species.
While native natural enemies (e.g., fungi, bacteria, nematodes, and insects) have shown potential in adapting to and controlling invasive populations, there remains a gap in understanding the full extent of these interactions and the ecological balance they can restore. Recent advances indicate that these natural enemies can effectively reduce invasive populations below harmful thresholds, contributing to ecological resilience. This research topic aims to compile a diverse range of studies exploring the challenges and responses associated with invasive insect species and to investigate how nature itself, through native natural enemies, has responded to these introductions.
By examining both the internal (biotic) and external (environmental) responses, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms by which native species adapt to and control invasive populations, ultimately contributing to ecological balance and informing future management strategies. Key questions include understanding the drivers behind the introduction of phytophagous species, their acclimatization dynamics, and the role of their natural enemies in managing invasive pests.
To gather further insights into the dynamics of invasive insect species and their natural control mechanisms, we invite authors to submit original research articles, reviews, case studies, and short communications. Contributions should address, but are not limited to, the following themes: Reports of new invasive insect species and their natural enemies (indigenous or non-native) Identification and taxonomy of invasive species Population dynamics and acclimatization studies Ecological and economic impacts of invasive species Phytosanitary assessments and management strategies Contributions should focus on both the direct effects of invasive insects and the natural mechanisms that control their populations. By addressing these themes, this article collection aims to provide a holistic understanding of invasive insect management and contribute to the development of effective control strategies, enhancing ecological resilience and reducing the environmental and economic impact of invasive species.
Keywords: insect
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
