Research progress on the biology and integrated control techniques of Heortia vitessoides, the major pest of Aquilaria sinensis

Aquilaria sinensis is an important source plant of agarwood in China, with significantly high economic and cultural values. Heortia vitessoides is the major leaf-eating pest of A. sinensis. The larvae of H. vitessoides are gregarious, usually forming large cohorts containing dozens or hundreds of individuals that consume large amounts of leaves of A. sinensis, which leads to the weakness or even death of A. sinensis. Currently, chemical insecticides are the primary method for controlling H. vitessoides. However, this approach can lead to pesticide residue issues, decreasing the quality and price of agarwood. In recent years, the molecular biology, chemical ecology, and eco-friendly management technology against H. vitessoides have received increasing attention. In the field of molecular biology, a high-quality genome of H. vitessoides has been published, and a series of functional genes related to development, stress response and resistance have been identified, providing a theoretical basis for the research and development of RNA-based biopesticides. In addition, researches showed various volatile compounds from A. sinensis and floral scents exhibited electrophysiological activity and attractive effects on H. vitessoides adults. However, the specific components of the sex pheromones of H. vitessoides adults have not yet been identified successfully. In terms of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, many researches have been explored to develop alternative control methods, such as screening resistant varieties of A. sinensis and utilizing predatory insects and entomopathogenic microorganisms against H. vitessoides. Future research is needed to deepen the understanding of the basic biology of H. vitessoides and improve technology system of eco-friendly pest prevention and control.