Manipulation of Vector Host Preference by Pathogens: Implications for Virus Spread and Disease Management

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Ecology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Plant pathogens often manipulate vector behavior to enhance their spread.
• This manipulation has significant evolutionary, epidemiological, and economic consequences, particularly for crop diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To model the economic impacts of vector manipulation on crop yield loss and vector suppression returns.
• To provide a framework for informing agricultural management decisions regarding vector control.

Main Methods:

• Utilized two modeling frameworks: one simulating pathogen occurrence and single insecticidal treatment, and another including vector population dynamics and multiple seasonal sprays.
• Parameterized models with published data on vector manipulation, crop yields, commodity prices, and vector control costs for three pathosystems.

Main Results:

• Vector manipulation increased maximum returns for vector treatment by approximately $10/acre (peas) and $50/acre (potatoes) in single-treatment scenarios.
• In dynamic models, controlling psyllid vectors showed 50% greater returns (approx. $400/acre) with vector manipulation, though diminishing returns for intensive spraying were observed.

Conclusions:

• The economic implications of vector manipulation in agriculture are substantial.
• The developed modeling framework can guide strategic vector control decisions to optimize economic outcomes in crop production.