Progress in research on the phototaxis mechanism of noctuid pests threatening food security in China, and applications of green control utilizing their phototaxis

As major global agricultural pests, noctuid species pose severe threats to food security and agricultural economies worldwide. Existing pest control methods have many drawbacks, while physical control using phototaxis is an important green pest control measure to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides. However, its effectiveness is restricted by species specificity, environmental conditions, and technical limitations. This review systematically elaborates on the biological basis and molecular regulatory mechanisms of phototaxis in noctuid pests from the perspectives of physiological structure, electrophysiological response, gene regulation, and sexual dimorphism. A host of experimental achievements show that the phototactic behavior of noctuid moths is the result of the synergistic interaction of physiological structure, gene expression, and environmental signals. In-depth analysis of this mechanism can provide theoretical support for the design of customized light sources, the combination of multiple technologies, and the development of lower-cost pest control equipment, which has great significance for promoting the green integrated management of agricultural pests. Meanwhile, based on research and control practices targeting the phototaxis of different noctuid pest species, this review summarizes the application effects of equipment such as different types of insecticidal lamps, as well as various challenges they face in terms of target specificity, impacts on non-target organisms, and environmental adaptability.