Bifenthrin at Sublethal Concentrations Suppresses Mating and Laying of Female Conogethes punctiferalis by Regulating Sex Pheromone Biosynthesis and JH Signals.

Conogethes punctiferalis, a polyphagous pest in Asia, infests various crops, causing severe economic losses. Its larvae feed inside plants, making management challenging, with conventional insecticides. This study examines sublethal bifenthrin effects on the reproductive capabilities of adult females. Findings show sublethal bifenthrin concentrations (LC1, LC10, LC20, and LC30) significantly reduce sex pheromone production and mating success in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, these sublethal exposures influence the expression of pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide and key juvenile hormone signaling genes, including methoprene-tolerant and Krüppel-homologue 1. Enzyme activity assays and metabolite measurements indicated that sublethal bifenthrin exposure decreases trehalose and pyruvic acid levels, suppressing the enzyme activities required for sex pheromone biosynthesis. Additionally, bifenthrin exposure delays ovarian development, reduces ovary size, and decreases egg production and hatchability. These results suggest bifenthrin's potential in attract-and-kill strategies by disrupting essential pathways for pest control, offering insights for improved insecticide use and innovative pest management for C. punctiferalis.