Locust Infestation: Causes, Impact, and Control Measures

Locust infestation refers to the sudden invasion of crops by large swarms of locusts, causing severe agricultural damage and threatening food security. It is triggered by climate conditions and requires coordinated monitoring and control measures.

Table of Contents

Context: Scientists have identified a pheromone that triggers locust swarming and discovered a method to block it, offering a breakthrough in controlling locust outbreaks.

About Locust Infestation

What are Locusts?

Locusts are grasshoppers that can transform into a swarming phase, forming massive groups that migrate and destroy crops.

Swarming Trigger

Scientists have identified a specific pheromone called 4-vinylanisole (4VA), which causes solitary locusts to gather and swarm.

Impact of Infestation

A single locust swarm can consume as much food as 35,000 people in one day.
Swarms devastate crops, pasture, and vegetation, leading to food insecurity and economic loss.
Countries in Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia are especially vulnerable.

Favourable Conditions

Triggered by heavy rains, cyclones, and moist soil, which promote locust breeding.
Climate change may increase the frequency of such conditions.

How to Prevent or Control Locust Infestation

Pheromone Blockage (Latest Discovery)

Scientists have found a molecule that blocks the 4VA pheromone, potentially preventing the formation of swarms.
This opens doors for targeted, eco-friendly pest control in the future.

Chemical Spraying

Aerial or ground spraying of organophosphate pesticides is commonly used during outbreaks.
Effective mainly in the early hopper stage before swarming.

Biological Control

Use of biopesticides like Metarhizium anisopliae, a fungus that infects and kills locusts.
Environmentally safe alternative to chemical pesticides.