Behavioural responses of Agriotes lineatus and Agriotes litigiosus wireworms to natural substances, synthetic volatile organic compounds and entomopathogenic fungi: Implications for sustainable pest management

This study investigated the behavioural responses of two wireworm species to three selected treatments: compost teas (16 and 19), synthetic 3-octanone, and Metarhizium brunneum (strain 1868). Behavioural assays were conducted under controlled conditions using rhizotrons and olfactometers. Results showed that compost tea 16 acted as an attractant, compost tea 19 had no significant effect, while both 3-octanone and M. brunneum exhibited consistent repellence in both species. These responses were consistent across experimental systems, indicating robust behavioural patterns. The findings suggest that wireworm behaviour is influenced by chemically mediated belowground cues, with contrasting responses depending on cue origin. These results highlight the potential of these treatments as alternatives for sustainable pest management, including push–pull approaches. Further field validation is required to confirm their effectiveness under practical conditions.