Plant-derivatives for the management of Earias vittella (Fabricius) (Nolidae: Lepidoptera): Current status, challenges, and future prospects

Abstract

Earias vittella (Fabricius, 1794) poses a significant threat to Okra production across Asia, Oceania, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, potentially leading to over 60 % crop losses. Okra, a versatile crop with applications in various industries including pharmaceuticals and food, faces economic peril due to E. vittella infestation, impacting food security. Chemical control methods, while effective, have environmental and health impacts alongside fostering resistance and pest resurgence. Consequently, exploring plant-based alternatives for sustainable pest management has gained traction. This bibliometric study reviewed over 5780 reports published during 1980–2023 and reports 104 research articles selected as per predefined criteria of using plant based E. vittella management in Okra. A total of 108 plant species and their active phytoconstituents belonging to 39 botanical families have been used in different forms comprising of extracts, powders, essential oils, dusts and nanoformulations for E. vittella management in Okra. Their efficacy, impacts on various life parameters of pest, mechanisms of action and their implications in botanical formulation development are also discussed. The review also addresses bibliometric indicators, and the challenges hindering botanical formulations' development faced by various stakeholders. By offering a comprehensive understanding of plant-derived interventions' research landscape, this study aims to address knowledge gaps and provide essential insights for the development of cost-effective, eco-friendly plant-based pest management technologies, crucial for safeguarding Okra production, ultimately contributing to sustainable agriculture.