This book is a comprehensive exploration of the evolving landscape of insect toxicology, offering a deep dive into both the foundational principles and the latest innovations shaping the field. The book begins by tracing the historical development of insect toxicology, providing a context for the modern challenges and advancements that researchers face today. It thoroughly examines the mechanisms by which insecticides act on insects, from their interactions at the cellular level to the complex molecular pathways involved. This detailed analysis helps readers understand the intricate processes that underlie insecticide efficacy and the physiological impacts on target pests. The book also addresses critical issues related to insecticide resistance, a growing concern in pest management. By exploring the biochemical pathways and genetic factors that contribute to resistance, the text offers valuable insights into how insects adapt to chemical controls and what strategies can be employed to counteract these adaptations. Moreover, it highlights the neurotoxic effects of insecticides, which are crucial for understanding the broader implications of their use on insect nervous systems. The environmental fate and behaviour of insecticides are also explored, providing a nuanced perspective on how these chemicals interact with ecosystems and affect non-target organisms. Incorporating the latest technological advancements, this book delves into novel approaches in insecticide delivery, such as nanotechnology, and presents cutting-edge analytical techniques that are transforming research in the field. The book also covers the emerging role of biopesticides and molecular diagnostics in managing insect populations and resistance. By bridging classical toxicology with modern innovations, this text serves as an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students in entomology, toxicology, and environmental sciences, offering a holistic view of the challenges and opportunities in insect toxicology today.
Dr. Nihal R is an accomplished entomologist currently serving as an Assistant Professor and Head, Department of Entomology at the M. S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha. He has been awarded M.Sc. and Ph.D. degree in Agricultural Entomology from Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalya. He has over 3 years of experience in teaching and research. His research interests span insect toxicology, molecular entomology, vector control, botanical pesticides, integrated pest management and nematology. Dr. Nihal has extensive experience in commercial entomology i.e., apiculture, lac culture, sericulture, and black soldier fly farming. Dr. Nihal is a prolific author, having contributed to several book chapters and research papers in reputable national and international peer-reviewed journals. He has also co-authored books on topics, such as sericulture and nematode management. He has also developed qualification packs for skill courses under National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). He is also serving as an editor and reviewer for few of the national and international peer-reviewed journals. He has attended many international, national seminars/conferences, faculty/ capacity development programs and several other training programs.
Prof. N. Venugopala Rao is a highly respected academic and researcher in agricultural science with a career spanning over four decades. He completed his post-graduate studies at Agricultural College, Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh, and later earned his doctoral degree from the College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. From 1984 to 2021, Dr. Rao served the A.P. Agricultural University in various capacities, making significant strides in the field of agricultural entomology. His research has primarily focused on the study and management of crop pests, with a particular emphasis on sugarcane pests, where he has developed innovative Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices that have been widely adopted. Dr. Rao’s scholarly contributions are extensive, with over 100 research articles published in prestigious national and international journals. Beyond his research, Dr. Rao has been an active contributor to agricultural extension services, delivering 100 All India Radio programs and 25 television programs aimed at disseminating valuable knowledge to the farming community.In recognition of his outstanding contributions to agriculture. Dr. Rao has received four prestigious awards, reflecting his influence and dedication to the field. Currently, he is a Professor at Centurion University, Paralakhemundi, Odisha, where he continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of agricultural scientists.
Dr. Goutam B. Hosamani is working as an Assistant Professor of Entomology in the department of Agricultural Entomology at M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture Science, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha. He has been awarded B.Sc. (Agri) College of Agriculture Science, Raichur, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, M.Sc. and Ph.D. degree in Agricultural Entomology from University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. He has 3 years of experience in teaching and research in the discipline. His area of expertise is Integrated pest management, Stored grain pest, Toxicology and Nanotechnology. He has in his credit several research and literature review papers published in reputable national and international peer-reviewed journals. He has also published book chapters, popular articles and other publications. He has attended many international, national seminars/conferences, faculty/ capacity development programmes and several other training programmes.
1. Introduction to Insect Toxicology: Historical and Modern Perspectives............................................................................1
2. Mechanisms of Insecticide Action: From Cellular to Molecular Levels ................................................................................23
3. Biochemical Pathways in Insecticide Metabolism.........................45
4. Genetic Basis of Insecticide Resistance............................................61
5. Neurotoxic Effects of Insecticides on Insect Physiology ..............85
6. Environmental Fate and Behaviour of Insecticides.....................103
7. Novel Insecticide Targets: Exploring New Avenues ..................121
8. Synergistic Effects of Insecticide Combinations ..........................145
9. Impact of Insecticides on Non-Target Organisms and Ecosystems ........................................................................................165
10. Biopesticides: Mechanisms and Efficacy in Insect Control ........183
11. Molecular Diagnostics for Insecticide Resistance Detection......199
12. Advanced Analytical Techniques in Insect Toxicology..............213
13. Toxicogenomics & Insect Response to Chemical Stress .............233
14. RNA Interference (RNAi) in Insect Pest Management...............259
15. Nanotechnology in Insecticide Delivery Systems .......................279
