Comprehensive pest management techniques in fruit crops

Abstract

The growing environmental and health concerns associated with pesticide residues, ecological imbalance, and insect resistance have intensified the demand for eco-friendly pest control strategies in fruit cultivation. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) provides a sustainable and science-based framework that combines biological, cultural, and behavior-oriented approaches to regulate pest populations effectively. This review discusses recent progress in developing non-toxic IPM models that rely on ecological processes and pest behavior rather than synthetic chemicals. Biological control, involving natural enemies such as predators, parasitoids, and entomo-pathogenic microorganisms, forms the cornerstone of sustainable pest regulation. When combined with cultural techniques like orchard hygiene, pruning, crop rotation, and intercropping, these practices disrupt pest habitats and limit their reproductive success. At the same time, semi-chemical tools, including pheromone traps, mating disruption devices, and attractant-based, play a crucial role in pest detection and targeted suppression. Recent advancements in precision agriculture, digital monitoring, and predictive pest modeling have further strengthened the integration of these IPM components, enabling more efficient and environmentally responsible pest management systems. This review emphasizes how harmonizing biological and behavioral strategies can minimize pesticide use, sustain fruit quality, and protect agroecosystems. Future directions focus on enhancing the adoption, economic feasibility, and climate resilience of non-toxic IPM practices across diverse fruit production systems.