Why in the News?
Researchers in China have discovered a method to curb locust swarming by manipulating their pheromones, paving the way for eco-friendly locust control.
What are Locust Swarms?
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About Locust Pheromones:
- Locust Behavioural Phases: Locusts exhibit two behavioural phases—solitary (non-swarming) and gregarious (swarming). The shift to gregariousness leads to swarm formation.
- Key Pheromone – 4-Vinylanisole (4VA):
- Identified in 2020 by Chinese researchers.
- Released from locusts’ hind legs after feeding, especially due to the digestion of phenylalanine (a plant compound).
- Acts as an aggregation pheromone, attracting other locusts and triggering group behaviour.
- Biochemical Pathway:
- Enzymes 4VPMT1 (dominant) and 4VPMT2 convert a precursor molecule (4VP) into 4VA.
- This process is crucial in converting solitary locusts into swarm-forming gregarious ones.
Recent Breakthrough and Its Implication:
- Discovery: Researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences genetically blocked 4VPMT1, preventing locusts from producing 4VA and stopping swarm formation.
- Limitations: 4NP is toxic and environmentally persistent, raising concerns for large-scale deployment.
- Strategy Proposed: RNA interference (RNAi)-based biopesticides targeting 4VPMT genes to prevent 4VA production without toxicity.
- Wider Implications:
- Marks the first pollution-free molecular approach to locust control.
- Can reduce reliance on synthetic pesticides, protect crops, and support sustainable agriculture.
- Offers a precision pest control model based on insect behavioural biochemistry.
| [UPSC 2001] American multinational company, Monsanto has produced an insect-resistant cotton variety that is undergoing field- trials in India. A toxin gene from which ONE of the following bacteria has been transferred to this transgenic cotton ?
Options: (a) Bacillus subtilis (b) Bacillus thurigiensis* (c) Bacillus amyloliquifanciens (d) Bacillus globlii |
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