About this Research Topic
Countries around the world face numerous accidental introductions of invasive insect species each year. Climate change, international trade, and vegetal biodiversity are the main drivers of this Research Topic. Climate is historically the main driver facilitating establishment and acclimatization of exotic species, and rising average temperatures have further increased the number of species that can thrive in new environments. Due to their strategic geographical locations, many countries serve as major hubs for international trade, making them key entry points for invasive species. Imported plants and plant products may often carry pests, heightening the risk of new introductions.
This article collection aims to compile studies on reports, identifications, population studies, acclimatization evaluations, and the damage caused by accidental and sporadic introductions of invasive insect species in new environments. The objective is to present a comprehensive overview of the challenges posed by invasive insect species and explore how nature itself has responded to these introductions. In this context, it is crucial to understand both internal and external responses. Recent advances have shown that native natural enemies (such as fungi, bacteria, nematodes, and insects) can adapt to new invasive species and effectively reduce their populations below harmful thresholds. Additionally, it is essential to investigate the reasons that drive the introduction of phytophagous species that often travel with their natural enemies, initially hidden, but over time acclimate and demonstrate their ability to control invasive pests and restore ecological balance.
The scope of this Research Topic includes, but is not limited to, the following themes: reports of new invasive insect species, their natural enemies (indigenous or non-native), identification and taxonomy, population dynamics, acclimatization studies, ecological and economic impacts, and phytosanitary assessments. We invite authors to submit various types of manuscripts, including original research articles, reviews, case studies, and short communications. Contributions should focus on both the direct effects of invasive insects and the natural mechanisms that control their populations. By addressing these themes, this article collection aims to provide a holistic understanding of invasive insect management and contribute to the development of effective control strategies.
This article collection aims to compile studies on reports, identifications, population studies, acclimatization evaluations, and the damage caused by accidental and sporadic introductions of invasive insect species in new environments. The objective is to present a comprehensive overview of the challenges posed by invasive insect species and explore how nature itself has responded to these introductions. In this context, it is crucial to understand both internal and external responses. Recent advances have shown that native natural enemies (such as fungi, bacteria, nematodes, and insects) can adapt to new invasive species and effectively reduce their populations below harmful thresholds. Additionally, it is essential to investigate the reasons that drive the introduction of phytophagous species that often travel with their natural enemies, initially hidden, but over time acclimate and demonstrate their ability to control invasive pests and restore ecological balance.
The scope of this Research Topic includes, but is not limited to, the following themes: reports of new invasive insect species, their natural enemies (indigenous or non-native), identification and taxonomy, population dynamics, acclimatization studies, ecological and economic impacts, and phytosanitary assessments. We invite authors to submit various types of manuscripts, including original research articles, reviews, case studies, and short communications. Contributions should focus on both the direct effects of invasive insects and the natural mechanisms that control their populations. By addressing these themes, this article collection aims to provide a holistic understanding of invasive insect management and contribute to the development of effective control strategies.
Keywords: insect
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
