Insecticideresistentie

Insecticideresistentie is the phenomenon whereby insect populations evolve reduced susceptibility to one or more insecticides. It arises through genetic variation and natural selection when individuals carrying alleles that confer survival advantages in the presence of a chemical survive, reproduce, and pass those alleles to subsequent generations. The most common mechanisms include target‑site alterations such as mutations in the voltage‑gated sodium channel that render pyrethroids ineffective, metabolic detoxification via overexpressed esterases, cytochrome P450 monooxygenases, or glutathione S‑transferases, and behavioral avoidance.

The development of resistance is facilitated by factors such as high insecticide application rates, repeated use of a single mode of action, and lack of refugia that would preserve susceptible genotypes. Resistance can spread through gene flow, leading to regional or even global dissemination of resistant strains. Major agricultural pests such as the corn rootworm, bollworm, cassava mealybug, and the Dengue mosquito Aedes aegypti have all shown significant resistance to common insecticides, compromising crop yields and disease control efforts.

Detection of resistance is performed through bioassays, biochemical tests for detoxifying enzymes, and molecular diagnostics that identify known resistance alleles. Management requires an integrated approach: rotating insecticides with different modes of action, employing synergists that inhibit detoxifying enzymes, and incorporating non-chemical control methods such as biological agents, resistant crop varieties, and cultural practices. Continued surveillance and research into novel compounds or gene‑editing strategies are essential to sustain the effectiveness of insecticides and mitigate the public health and economic consequences of insecticideresistentie.