Professor Christopher Weldon from the University of Pretoria's Department of Zoology and Entomology delivered an inaugural lecture on the role of insect physiology and ecology in sustainable farming practices across Africa. His address, titled "Using Insect Behaviour and Temperature Responses for Precision Pest Management and African Food Security," emphasized the importance of understanding pest biology in tackling agricultural challenges.
Prof Weldon highlighted the rapid population growth in Africa, projected to reach 3.8 billion by the century's end, which will demand increased food production without harming ecosystems. He stated, "Africa's population is surging toward 3.8 billion by the century's end, and the demand for nutritious food will increase too. But this doesn't have to come at the expense of ecosystems."
The research focuses on sustainable pest management by examining insect behavior, temperature sensitivity, and nutritional needs. The team develops biologically-based control plans, surveillance systems, and models to mitigate pests like thrips, fruit flies, and citrus psyllids. Prof Weldon noted the Mediterranean fruit fly's ability to damage fruit using gut microbiota and produce multiple generations annually.
Temperature affects insect metabolism, reproduction, and activity. Prof Weldon's lab uses machine learning and spatial mapping to identify pest hotspots, aiming to reduce pesticide use. He remarked, "We must comprehend the biology of pests to effectively control them."
Prof Weldon's academic achievements include over 80 peer-reviewed articles and mentoring numerous students. His future goals involve advancing sterile insect techniques and examining climate change impacts on pest physiology. He concluded, "We're just scratching the surface. But if we keep asking the right questions – and listening to the insects – we might find smarter, more sustainable answers."
Source: UP
