Author
Andrea Clavijo McCormick
Massey University, New Zealand
Ministry for Primary Industries, New Zealand
Coauthors
D. Paul Barret, Massey University, New Zealand
Evans Effah, Massey University, New Zealand
Benjamin Pearson, Massey University, New Zealand
Logan Svendsen, Massey University, New Zealand
Maria Minor, Massey University, New Zealand
Alastair Robertson, Massey University, New Zealand
Murray Potter, Massey University, New Zealand
Jason Wargent, Massey University, New Zealand
Paul Peterson, Bioeconomy Science Institute – Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research Group, New Zealand
Ronny Groenteman Bioeconomy Science Institute – Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research Group, New Zealand
Simon V. Fowler Bioeconomy Science Institute – Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research Group, New Zealand
Arvind Subbraj Bioeconomy Science Institute – Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research Group, New Zealand
Jarmo Holopainen, University of Eastern Finland, Finland
Robin Pakeman, James Hutton Institute, Scotland
Abstract
Chemical ecology (the study of chemically mediated interactions between organisms) has significantly advanced insect biological control yet remains underutilized in weed biocontrol.
Plants produce a wide array of chemicals that function as a language, allowing them to respond to environmental changes and interact with other plants and insects. These chemical cues are central to host specificity, influencing the behaviour and effectiveness of biocontrol agents. Identifying and understanding these cues offers a powerful strategy to improve the precision, efficacy, and safety of weed management programs.
This presentation highlights a decade of research on the chemical ecology of Calluna vulgaris (heather), an invasive weed in New Zealand, using metabolomics and volatilomics approaches. Metabolomics enables comprehensive profiling of small molecules produced by plants under varying environmental conditions. Volatilomics focuses specifically on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) i.e., the scents emitted by plants.
Our research revealed substantial chemical variation in heather across both its native and invasive ranges, driven by environmental factors such as UV radiation and soil nutrient availability. By correlating these chemical profiles with the behavioural patterns of the biocontrol beetle Lochmaea suturalis, observed in both field and laboratory settings, we gained insights into the beetle’s initially poor performance and propose strategies to enhance the effectiveness of future biocontrol efforts.
This work highlights the value of integrating chemical ecology into weed biocontrol programs. By decoding the chemical language of plants and their natural enemies, we can refine agent selection, optimize release strategies, and reduce non-target risks. Ongoing research continues to develop chemical ecology-based tools to support and strengthen weed biocontrol initiatives.
keywords
Chemical Ecology
Weed Biocontrol
Metabolomics
Plant Volatiles
Plant-insect interactions
Highlights
Invasive plants modify their chemical profiles when growing in non-native habitats.
Understanding plant chemical variation and its drivers is useful for weed biocontrol.
Chemical ecology tools like metabolomics could improve biocontrol agent performance and safety