Insects of the genus Cacopsylla (formerly Psylla) are known as the major responsible vectors of fruit trees phytoplasmas. It was shown recently that they use chemical cues for orientation and host identification (Gross, 2016) . To overcome the spreading of these diseases, especially the transition to healthy plants, several techniques using volatile substances that manipulate insect behavior like insects attractants and repellents have been identified. Furthermore, new systems for the delivery

more »

... f volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are being studied to meet the requirements of plant protection measures in the field. More recently, the nanotechnology offers great promises for delivery systems as an innovative tool. Nanofibers can be used to deliver both attractive compounds, and insect repellents. Through nanoencapsulation chemicals are slowly but efficiently released to a particular host plant for insect pest control (Ragaei & Sabry, 2014). Objectives • Identification of plant compounds repellent to target insects (Cacopsylla ssp.) • Development of an innovative push-and-pull strategy • Development of appropriate nanomaterial emitting repellent compounds. This combined application of an insect attractant (pull component) and repellent (push component) connected to a practical push-and-pull control method will reduce the use of chemical pesticides and ensure economic, sustainable and long term cultivation of pome and stone fruit in Germany and throughout Europe. Reducing chemical insecticides will decrease their effect on beneficial insects and the amount of CO 2 which will be released during production. Compared to classical dispensers, nanoformulations for push-and-pull systems can improve formulations and as well increase volatiles longevity in in field conditions.