Alien insect species affecting agriculture and natural resources in Sudan

摘要

Agricultural crops in Sudan are usually attacked by different local pests at variable levels based on the prevailing climatic and ecological conditions. However, with the modernization of agriculture coupled with the rapid movement of global trade during the last decades, new species of insects were accidentally introduced to the country. Unfortunately, most of these insects are potentially harmful species, hence imposing serious threats to agriculture and/or natural resources. This paper sheds light on the important established alien insect species, their original homes and the main host plants affected. More than twenty five species believed to be exotic were listed, and brief accounts were given on important ones. They include devastating pests on field and horticultural crops, store products and natural flora, among which are species of stemborers, bollworms, leafminers, fruitflies, scale insects, beetles and others. The paper stressed the steady increase in the frequency of introductions as a consequence of trade globalization, and warned from the entry of some new invasive species in the near future. Finally, the paper emphasizes the importance of cooperation in combating alien pests, particularly through biological approach, and asks for upgrading of quarantine measures in our countries so as to keep pace with the accelerating world trade.