CURRENT KNOWLEDGE REGARDING THE SOIL PESTS AND THEIR CONTROL OPTIONS IN MAIZE CROPS FROM SOUTHERN ROMANIA
Raluca Gabriela Georgescu, Ionuț Cristian Popa, Mădălina Rădulea, Andrei Chiriloaie-Palade, Maria Iamandei*
Doi: http://www.doi.org/10.54574/RJPP.18.01
Abstract:
With an annual cultivated surface of 2.2 to 2.7 million hectares, maize is the most important cereal crop in Romania, followed by wheat and barley. Yields of maize crops have considerably fluctuation between years, mainly due to abiotic factors like drought and biotic factors represented by pest insects. Maize is attacked by a large number of arthropods, the southern area of Romania being particularly affected by the attack of some harmful species such as Tanymecus dilaticollis, Opatrum sabulosum and different complexes of wireworms that can compromise crops, on large areas, from the first stages of crop vegetation. The paper reviews the recent literature on general distribution and economic importance of main soil-dwelling pests in relation to maize production. Also, control methods that can be used for their integrated management are discussed.
Key words: soil pests, maize crops, IPM, biological control
POPULATION DYNAMICS OF MAIZE PEST SPECIES IN AN AGROECOSYSTEM WITH AGROFORESTRY SHELTERBELTS IN THE TRANSYLVANIAN PLATEAU
Adina Tărău, Camelia Urdă, Ana-Maria Vălean, Laura Şopterean, Loredana Suciu, Florin Russu, Nicolae Tritean, Daniela Trifan
Doi: http://www.doi.org/10.54574/RJPP.18.02
Abstract: This study evaluated the abundance and flight dynamics of major maize pests within an agroecosystem protected by agroforestry shelterbelts in the Transylvanian Plateau. Monitoring was carried out from May to September 2024 at the Cean–Bolduț farm (Cluj County), using species-specific pheromone traps for Ostrinia nubilalis, Agrotis segetum, Helicoverpa armigera, and Diabrotica virgifera virgifera. Climatic parameters were recorded to assess their influence on pest activity. Diabrotica virgifera virgifera was the species with the highest abundance, recording 674 captured adults, an average of 61.3 adults per trap, and the peak in flight activity in late July. It was also the only species showing a statistically significant correlation with minimum temperature (r = 0.48, p < 0.05). The other species exhibited moderate to low abundances and showed no significant associations with climatic variables. These findings highlight Diabrotica v. virgifera as the primary pest threat in agroecosystems with shelterbelts and emphasize the need for targeted monitoring.
Keywords: agroforestry shelterbelts, maize pests, pheromone monitoring, abundance, climatic variables.
THE INFLUENCE OF TILLAGE SYSTEMS ON THE OCCURRENCE OF DISEASES AND PESTS ON SPRING CEREALS, IN THE TRANSYLVANIAN PLATEAU
Felicia CHEȚAN, Adina TĂRĂU, Ana-Maria VĂLEAN, Laura ȘOPTEREAN, Alina ȘIMON, Camelia URDĂ, Roxana CĂLUGĂR, Cornel CHEȚAN, Teodor RUSU, Loredana SUCIU
Doi: http://www.doi.org/10.54574/RJPP.18.03
Abstract. In recent years, spring straw crops have expanded due to the increasing variability of autumn weather, which affects germination and emergence, while spring generally provides sufficient moisture for proper cereal development. Another advantage of these crops is their productivity, often comparable to or even higher than that of autumn crops. Research carried out at the Agricultural Research and Development Station (ARDS) Turda, between 2023 and 2025, examined the influence of four soil tillage systems (plowing, minimum tillage with chisel, minimum tillage with disc, and no-tillage) on the occurrence of diseases and pests in three spring cereal species (wheat, oat, barley), within a split-plot experiment with two replications. Basic fertilization (300 kg/ha NPK 15:15:15) was applied at sowing. Phytosanitary assessments conducted at stem elongation and flowering aimed to identify the main diseases and to estimate the frequency and intensity of attacks. Pest monitoring was performed through 100 double sweep-net samples every 10 days, from the booting stage until two weeks before harvest. Chemical treatments and plowing systems significantly reduced disease and pest pressure; however, a higher number of harmful organisms was recorded in the no-tillage system due to the presence of plant residues that favor their development cycle.
Key words: tillage system, disease, pest, spring cereals
AUCHENORRHYNCHA STRUCTURE IN AN EXPERIMENTAL TOMATO CROP AT VRDS BUZĂU, ROMANIA
Andrei Teodoru, Ștefan-Daniel Cristea, Gabriela Maria Pârvu, Traian Manole, Constantina Chireceanu
Doi: http://www.doi.org/10.54574/RJPP.18.04
Abstract: A study of Auchenorrhyncha fauna was conducted in 2024 and 2025 in an experimental field of tomatoes at the Vegetables Research and Development Station Buzău, Buzau County, southern Romania. A total of 6555 specimens distributed in 21 species were collected, 1179 (17.99%) in 2024 and 5376 (82.01%) in 2025. Cicadellidae family was the most numerous and diverse, 1177 specimens classified in 11 species in 2024 and 5357 specimens classified in 14 species in 2025, represented mainly by two subfamilies, Typhlocybinae (1094 specimens, 7 species in 2024 and 4398 specimens, 5 species in 2025) and Deltocephalinae (83 specimens and 4 species in 2024 and 924 specimens, 6 species in 2025). The collected species were classified as species producing direct damage (Megophthalmus scanicus, Eupteryx aurata, Zygina flammigera, Zyginidia pullula, Zyginella pulchra, Erasmoneura vulnerata, Edwardsiana rosae, Phlepsius ornatus, Platymetopius rostratus and Platymetopius major) and as species confirmed or potential reported vectors to spread pathogens to plants such as phytoplasmas and viruses, mainly to vegetables (Hyalesthes obsoletus, Reptalus quinquecostatus, Laodelphax striatellus, Austroagallia sinuata, Anaceratagallia ribauti, Eupteryx atropunctata, Empoasca decipiens, Psammotettix alienus, Neoaliturus fenestratus, Fieberiella florii and Phlogotettix cyclops). The most abundant four species were E. decipiens, E. rosae, Z. pullula and E. atropunctata in 2024, and Z. pullula, E. decipiens, E. atropunctata, and P. alienus in 2025.
Key words: Auchenorrhyncha fauna, structure, tomatoes crop
NEW SPECIES HARMFUL TO PLANTS AND PLANT PRODUCTS REPORTED IN ROMANIA
Filofteia Manole, Mariana Adam, Mariana Simona- Şerban, Daniela Mincă, Adela Ștefan,Luminița Zaharia, Claudia Costache, Aurelian-Marian Coman, Mirela Cean*
Doi: http://www.doi.org/10.54574/RJPP.18.05
Abstract: The following six exotic species have not previously been officially recorded in Romania: Xanthomonas euvesicatoria pv. euvesicatoria (Jones, Lacy, Bouzar, Stall & Schaad) Constantin, Cleenwerck, Maes, Baeyen, Van Malderghem, De Vos, Cottyn, X. euvesicatoria pv. perforans (Jones, Lacy, Bouzar, Stall & Schaad) Constantin, Cleenwerck, Maes, Baeyen, Van Malderghem, De Vos, Cottyn, Grapevine flavescence doreé phytoplasma, Pseudodendrothrips mori (Niwa), Physoderma maydis (Miyabe) Miyabe, Sclerophthora macrospora (Saccardo) Thirumalachar, C.G.Shaw & Narasimhan, Cercospora kikuchii (Matsumoto & Tomoyasu) Gardne and Cryptostroma corticale (Ellis & Everhart) Gregory & Waller. This article discusses the initial detection, distribution, life cycle and host plants of the species listed above, which were detected between 2021 and 2025.
Keywords: quarantine pest, regulated non-quarantine pest, detection, host plants.
COMBATTING FORMS OF RESISTANCE OF DOWNY MILDEW - Plasmopara viticola
Marian Lixandru, Sergiu Fendrihan
Doi: http://www.doi.org/10.54574/RJPP.18.06
Abstract: Grapevine downy mildew, Plasmopara viticola, is the most damaging disease of grapes globally. Although the management of this disease involves the application of fungicides during the growing season, the resistance developed often makes chemical treatments ineffective. Most studies refer to combating the pathogen during the plant's growing season, although it continues to evolve during the vegetative rest period of the grapevine crop, in the leaf debris in the soil. In this study, laboratory research methods were used, as well as field research methods on the experimental plot. Five experimental variants and a control were used. Following the experiments carried out, it was found that the most effective variant was the 4-cymoxanil + copper hydroxide variant (13.33% attack degree). The aim of the experiments was to combat overwintering resistance forms of P. viticola in order to reduce the number of treatments during the growing season.
Key worlds: downy mildew, resistance forms, chemical control, biological control.
BIOLOGICAL CONTROL AGENTS IN SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE: FROM EUROPEAN REGULATION TO FARMERS’ ADOPTION
Daniel-Nicolae Cojanu, Oana-Alina Boiu-Sicuia, Maria-Cristina Lumînare, Ana-Cristina Fătu, Raluca Gabriela Georgescu, Călina Petruța Cornea
Doi: http://www.doi.org/10.54574/RJPP.18.07
Abstract: The increasing emphasis on sustainability and reduced chemical dependency in agriculture has brought renewed attention to biological control as a viable alternative for crop protection. This review outlines the historical evolution of biological control, tracing the shift from early empirical practices to modern approaches informed by scientific research, the development of biopesticides, and the growing understanding of their ecological roles in sustainable agriculture. Furthermore, the paper examines the European regulatory framework, global market trends, and farmers’ perceptions regarding the adoption of bio-based products. Despite significant progress in research, innovation and policy support, the adoption of biological control agents remains uneven across regions, limited by economic constraints, regulatory complexity and insufficient awareness. Strengthening farmer education, harmonizing regulations and promoting applied innovation are key steps toward broader implementation and a more sustainable agricultural future.
Keywords: biological control, biopesticides, EU regulations, farmer.
EFFECTS OF BOTANICAL AND COMMERCIAL SEED TREATMENTS ON GERMINATION AND EARLY SEEDLING DEVELOPMENT IN MAIZE, SUNFLOWER AND OILSEED RAPE
Maria-Cristina Lumînare, Daniel Nicolae Cojanu, Mihaela-Monica Dinu, Ana-Cristina Fătu
Doi: http://www.doi.org/10.54574/RJPP.18.08
Abstract: This study evaluated the effects of selected biological and commercial seed treatment products on seed germination and early radicle development in maize (Zea mays), oilseed rape (Brassica napus) and sunflower (Helianthus annuus) under controlled laboratory conditions. Treatments included a plant-based decoction applied at different concentrations, commercial formulations containing methyl anthranilate (Repel Aves) and terpenoid compounds (Requiem Prime) as well as a vacuum-assisted application method with untreated seeds used as controls. Across all crops and treatments, final germination percentages remained high and comparable to the control, generally ranging between 92.5 and 100%, indicating no adverse effects on seed viability at the tested concentrations. In maize, vacuum-assisted application of the plant-based decoction did not reduce final germination (76-100%), but significantly inhibited early radicle elongation in a concentration-dependent manner (p < 0.001). In oilseed rape, treatments with Repel Aves and Requiem Prime maintained stable germination levels (≥94%) with only minor and transient delays observed at early evaluation stages. Sunflower seeds showed high germination across all variants, reaching 90-100% by day 5, with no significant effects on radicle growth. These results indicate that the tested biological products and commercial formulations are compatible with seed germination under short-term laboratory conditions. Early radicle growth proved more sensitive than germination to treatment effects, highlighting the importance of including additional growth parameters when evaluating alternative seed treatment strategies.
Keywords: seed germination, maize, sunflower, oilseed rape, botanical decoction, seed treatment.
EFFECTS OF ADULT DIET ON LONGEVITY AND REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF COCCINELLA SEPTEMPUNCTATA AND CHRYSOPERLA CARNEA UNDER CONTROLLED CONDITIONS
Mădălina Rădulea, Raluca Gabriela Georgescu, Ionuț Cristian Popa, Maria Iamandei
Doi: http://www.doi.org/10.54574/RJPP.18.09
Abstract: Adult nutrition is a key factor influencing reproductive performance and survival of predatory insects used in biological control programs. This study evaluated the effects of different adult diets on longevity and reproductive parameters of Coccinella septempunctata and Chrysoperla carnea under controlled laboratory conditions. Longevity, pre-oviposition period, total and daily fecundity and egg viability were recorded over a six-week period. In C. septempunctata, the natural aphid-based diet resulted in significantly higher longevity, fecundity and egg viability compared to all artificial diets. Among artificial treatments, the mixed protein-carbohydrate diet produced intermediate reproductive performance. In Ch. carnea, carbohydrate-based diets enhanced adult longevity, whereas reproductive output and egg viability were maximized under the mixed diet. Protein-only diets supported egg production but reduced survival. The results highlight species-specific nutritional requirements reflecting different trophic strategies. While natural prey remains essential for optimal reproduction in C. septempunctata, balanced artificial diets can represent a practical alternative for mass rearing. For Ch. carnea, mixed protein-carbohydrate diets are recommended to optimize both survival and reproduction.
Key words: Coccinella septempunctata, Chrysoperla carnea, mass rearing program, biological control
DISEASES INCIDENCE AND THEIR CONTROL IN GRAPEVINE IN DOBROUDJA
Daniel Jalobă, Marga Grădilă, Valentin-Marius Ciontu, Raluca Monica Cristea, Dana Cotigă, Cornelia Dragomir
Doi: http://www.doi.org/10.54574/RJPP.18.10
Abstract: This study investigates the incidence and control of two major cryptogamic diseases of grapevine, namely powdery mildew (Erysiphe necator) and black rot (Guignardia bidwellii), in the Dobroudja viticultural region. Assessments were conducted in two vineyards located in Murfatlar (organic system) and Ostrov-Oltina (conventional system). Disease development was assessed visually and microscopically on leaves and grape clusters across key phenological stages. Treatment schemes adapted to the genetic material and applied at critical infection periods showed high efficacy (76.32-89.09%) against both pathogens. Results highlighted an increased pressure of black rot and an earlier onset of powdery mildew infections compared to previous decades. Climatic factors and local inoculum sources strongly influenced disease incidence. The applied control strategies significantly reduced degree of attack and prevented major yield losses. Overall, effective disease management remains essential for sustaining grape wine production in Dobroudja under changing climatic conditions.
Keywords: powdery mildew, black rot, control, treatments
RESEARCH ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF HERBICIDES IN CONTROLLING WEEDS IN WINTER WHEAT AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON YIELD
Marius Bărdaş, Felicia Chețan*, Florin Russu, Alin Popa, Ovidiu Adrian Ceclan,Cornel Chețan, Ioan Gaga
Doi: http://www.doi.org/10.54574/RJPP.18.11
Abstract: The study was conducted on winter wheat during the 2024 - 2025 growing seasons, using the Andrada variety developed at S.C.D.A. Turda, characterized by high yield potential and good grain quality. The objective of the experiment was to assess the efficacy of post-emergence herbicides applied individually and in tank mixtures at the early stem elongation stage (BBCH 30 - 32). The trial included eight experimental variants (seven herbicide treatments and untreated control) arranged in three replications. Herbicide application led to a significant reduction in weed density with control levels ranging from 75 - 90% in 2024 and 85 - 95% in 2025. The tested treatments showed high efficacy against major annual and perennial dicotyledonous weeds, as well as annual monocotyledonous species. The highest grain yields were obtained in treatments with Provalia herbicide, applied alone or in combination with Broadway Star herbicide and the Vital adjuvant, showing very highly significant differences compared with the untreated control (p < 0.001). These findings emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate herbicide strategies based on weed infestation levels, species composition, application timing and local climatic conditions, in order to reduce weed competition and enhance winter wheat productivity.
Keywords: winter wheat, herbicides, weeds, integrated control.
EFFECT OF POSTHARVEST SALICYLIC ACID TREATMENTS ON THE INDUCTION OF DISEASE RESISTANCE AND QUALITY PRESERVING OF APRICOT DURING COLD STORAGE
Oana Elena Toașcă (Cojocaru), Cristina Petrișor, Viorel Cătălin Oltenacu,Mihai Gîdea
DOI: http://www.doi.org/10.54574/RJPP.18.12
Abstract Apricots are stone fruits, climacteric, that are highly perishable and have a limited storage life after harvest. Effects of salicylic acid (SA) postharvest treatment combined with cold storage on the quality features, fruit decay and antioxidant system of apricot fruits were investigated. Three concentrations of SA (0.5, 1 and 2 mM/L) were applied and apricots were stored at 1°C and 90 % RH for 20 days. Weight loss, acoustic firmness index, soluble solids content, titratable acidity, total phenolics, vitamin C, total carotenoids, antioxidant capacity, fruit decay and antioxidant enzymes were evaluated. Our results showed that treatment with SA at 2 mM/L concentration strongly reduces weight loss and the occurrence of fungal decay, and maintain an high content of acid ascorbic, phenolics and carotenoids in fruits after 20 days of cold storage. Also, results showed that maximum antioxidant activity and activities of peroxidase and superoxide dismutase enzymes were found in the fruit treated with 2mM/L SA. The postharvest application of SA in 0.5mM/L concentration had no positive effects on the quality and antioxidant capacity of the apricots during cold storage.
Key words: antioxidant capacity, fruit decay, firmness, soluble solids
PRELIMINARY STUDY ON PEST AND NATURAL ENEMY IN A VEGETABLE GREENHOUSE, FOLLOWING EXPERIMENTAL ENTOMOPATHOGENIC FUNGI BASED BIOPESTICIDES TREATMENTS
Mihaela Monica Dinu, Maria-Cristina Luminare, Daniel-Nicolae Cojanu, Sorina Dinu, Vasilica Ștefan, Ana-Cristina Fătu
http://www.doi.org/10.54574/RJPP.18.13
Abstract: This preliminary study was conducted to monitor the effects on Myzus persicae (Sulzer, 1776) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) and Nezara viridula (Linnaeus, 1758) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) of an experimental bioproduct, formulated from native Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuil. (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) entomopathogenic strains, and its impact on beneficial entomofauna within a protected tomato and peppers cultivation system. The experimental bioproduct was formulated using entomopathogenic strains that were passaged through the target host to restore virulence. During the evaluation, N. viridula displayed characteristic symptoms of entomopathogenic infection. These observations were subsequently validated through laboratory diagnostics, confirming the pathogenicity of the applied strains. Furthermore, the study recorded no negative impact on beneficial insect species, suggesting a high degree of selectivity.
Keywords: greenhouse, useful insects, pests, tomato