Integrating water and insect pest management in agriculture

Abstract

Water and herbivory are two of the most crucial factors limiting plant growth, and their management is a critical part of crop production. However, due to climate change, the management of water and pests has become increasingly challenging. Although increasing evidence has suggested strong interactions among water, plants, and insects, the level to which water and insect pest management can be integrated is largely unexplored. This review summarizes and synthesizes current knowledge on the ecology of water-plant-insect interactions and agricultural practices that integrate water management rationale in pest management. We further discuss the importance of these agricultural practices under the context of farming types and regional differences at a global scale. A better understanding of the interactions between water and pest management will likely increase synergism and prevent antagonism among different management practices. The review informs future studies on integrating water and pest management and highlights current knowledge gaps that are essential for integrating water and pest management. We aim to facilitate the development of management strategies that enhance plant stress resilience and agricultural sustainability.