RÉSUMÉ
The rapidly evolving landscape of agriculture faces myriad challenges, including pests, diseases, and environmental factors that jeopardise global food security. The urgency of these challenges necessitates innovative plant protection strategies that are both effective and environmentally sustainable. This review offers a comprehensive examination of the advancements and considerations in plant protection, from traditional methods to modern technological approaches. Traditional practices, although eco-friendly, often fall short in efficacy and scalability. The advent of chemical solutions such as pesticides revolutionised plant protection but brought about environmental and health concerns. Biological controls offer a middle-ground, leveraging natural predators and bio-pesticides to combat agricultural threats. Technology is playing an increasingly critical role in shaping the future of plant protection. Sensor technologies and drones are enabling precision agriculture, enhancing the monitoring and application of protection measures. Genetic engineering holds the promise of creating crops resistant to pests and diseases, albeit amid ethical and safety debates. Integrated Pest Management (IPM), a balanced, eco-friendly approach, is gaining traction, supported by case studies that validate its effectiveness and adaptability. Meanwhile, policy and regulation are evolving to better govern the use of chemicals, promote sustainability, and address the impacts of climate change on agriculture. This review explores future trends, particularly the influence of emerging technologies such as nanotechnology and IoT, and potential shifts in global policies towards more sustainable practices. It argues for the imperative of integrating these multifaceted approaches, guided by robust policies and regulations, to achieve the dual objectives of high agricultural yield and environmental conservation. It aims to provide a holistic understanding and guide future directions in plant protection strategies, emphasising the importance of adaptability, sustainability, and integration in facing the challenges of tomorrow.
RÉSUMÉ
The dynamic and expansive field of entomology is poised for transformative changes, thanks to technological advancements and the emergence of new avenues of research. Traditional methodologies like specimen collection and observation are increasingly being complemented by state-of-the-art techniques such as environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, CRISPR genome editing, remote sensing, and artificial intelligence. The eDNA methodology, for example, offers a non-invasive approach to monitor elusive or endangered insect species, thereby enriching biodiversity databases. Genome editing technologies like CRISPR have enabled nuanced manipulation of insect genes, providing a deeper understanding of their physiology and behavior. Moreover, artificial intelligence and machine learning contribute to automated species identification and predictive modeling of insect populations, offering invaluable insights for conservation efforts. In terms of emerging fields, insect neurobiology, microbiomics, and environmental entomology are gaining prominence. Neurobiological studies are dissecting the neural substrates of insect behaviors, which not only deepen our basic biological understanding but also have implications in robotics and AI. Microbiomics explores the symbiotic relationships between insects and their microbial communities, revealing avenues for novel pest control strategies. Environmental entomology focuses on the impacts of habitat change and climate variability on insect populations, which is crucial for biodiversity conservation. Acknowledging the concerted efforts of researchers, academic institutions, and funding bodies is essential, as these stakeholders shape the field's future direction. Thus, entomology stands at the cusp of a new era, enriched by technological innovations and multidisciplinary approaches. These advancements hold the promise of significantly broadening our understanding of insects' roles in ecosystems, their adaptability, and their importance in maintaining ecological balance. This future direction not only provides exciting prospects for scientific inquiry but also brings forth substantial implications for the sustainable management of ecosystems and conservation policy.