Some Mediterranean plants that are found in nature, in green spaces or even on our balcony, offer much more than a good aesthetic result. They hide within them, through their biology, a natural arsenal of chemical warfare. This arsenal constitutes the natural defense of plants, otherwise known as inductive defense, against a multitude of enemies. These substances, found in the leaves, roots or other parts of plants, can also act as natural repellants or even as poison against animal enemies that are a nuisance to plants and humans.

There are many examples. Essential oils extracted from bergamot (Citrus bergamia), which contain components such as limonene, linalool and linalyl acetate, have a rodent-repellent effect either alone or in combination with essential oils from thyme (Thymus vulgaris) and lavender (Lavandula angustifolia). In addition, essential oils extracted from peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) in combination with essential oils from gaultheria (Gaultheria procumbens) and bergamot (Citrus bergamia), prevent rodents from approaching the application sites. Similar results have been observed with extracts from Alexandrian clover (Trifolium alexandrium), which can be sprayed on food and other materials that we want to protect.

However, there are even more drastic substances. For example, chives (Urginea martima), contain the toxic substance scilliroside which exhibits rodenticidal properties in the form of an extract or powder from the bulb of the plant. Nerium oleander contains the toxic substances oleandrin and nerine, which are cardiac glycosides (organic compounds that help the heart function properly). The consumption of leaves of the plant causes damage to vital organs of rodents, while their extract has adverse effects on hematological and histopathological parameters. Finally, wild calendula (Calendula aegyptiaka) flower extract contains amounts of cardiac glycosides flavonoids, saponins, tannins and triterpenes, which can be lethal to rodents.

Mediterranean plants and their repellent and toxic properties against rodents were the subject of the research entitled “A review of endemic plant species of Greece for managing rodent damages in agriculture” presented as part of the MED4PEST research project by researchers of the Hellenic Mediterranean University at the Conference “RETASTE: Rethink Food Resources, Losses and Waste” in Athens on September 27-29, 2023. The MED4PEST project aims to reduce the economic damage caused by rodents to the outdoor and greenhouse crops of the Mediterranean and of course Greece. Reducing the loss caused by rodents has physical and economic benefits, in addition to the ecological objective of the project.

MED4PEST is funded by the PRIMA foundation and is a collaboration of 6 partners: the Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU) form Greece, the Mohammed V University of Rabat (MVUR) from Morocco, the National Institute for Agricultural Research of Rabat (INRA) also from Morocco, the CYENS Center of Excellence (CYENS) from Cyprus, as well as two branches of the social enterprise MetaMeta, one based in the Netherlands (Meta-Meta Research – MMR) and one based in Turkey (Meta-Meta Anatolia – MMA). The lead partner of MED4PEST is Meta-Meta Anatolia (MMA).

Greece is represented in the project by the Department of Agriculture of the Hellenic Mediterranean University, with Prof. Dr. Thrasyvoulos Manios and Asst. Prof. Dr. Ioannis Daliakopoulos and scientific collaborators Ioannis Marakis, Agronomist MSc and Ioannis Louloudakis, Technologist Agronomist MSc. According to the Greek researchers, “the results of this research will be used to develop alternative methods of repelling rodents in order to reduce as much as possible the use of chemical rodenticides that burden the environment as well as non-target animals such as predators”.

The PRIMA Program (Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area) is a European Union funding body with the main objective of developing research and innovation capacities and devising innovative solutions for addressing critical problems in the areas of water management and agri-food systems in the Mediterranean.

The post The secret chemical arsenal of plants in the fight against rodents first appeared on MED4PEST.

Prof. Souad El Hajjaji, Vice-Dean in charge of Research and Cooperation-FSR who co-hosted the meeting, highlighted the significance of Hosting an international project aimed at developing bio-pesticides and the involvement of doctoral students from the institution/department.

Project coordinator Sukru Esin expressed his happiness in attending the second meeting of the MED4PEST project in the capital city of Rabat, Morocco. emphasizing its importance in developing solutions for pre-harvest and post-harvest losses caused by rodent issues, contributing to developing international research-focused collaborations.

Assistant Professor Ioannis Daliakopoulos from the Hellenic Mediterranean University, Greece underlined the importance of monitoring pest threats at all food production stages and emphasized that this gathering symbolized a significant milestone in the collaborative journey of MED4PEST towards pioneering solutions in ecological pest management. 

Dr. Fouad Mokrini, Head of the Nematology Laboratory at the National Institute of Agronomic Research, conveyed his immense sense of pride in overseeing the hosting of an international project. This project is specifically geared towards the pursuit of sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions for the effective control of rodent populations. 

Mr. Badr BENJELLOUN, Head of the regional center of the National Institute of Agronomic Research in Rabat, expressed his profound enthusiasm about the opportunity to host an international project focusing on the advancement of Ecological-Based Rodent Management (EBRM) approaches as an alternative solution for controlling rodents. Furthermore, Mr.  BENJELLOUN highlighted the extensive expertise and track record of INRA’s researchers in contributing to numerous successful international projects. The MED4PEST project is supported by the Prima-Med Program, which promotes international collaborative projects related to water, agriculture, food, and agri-food value chains in the Mediterranean region. initiated in 2022, this project is set to continue until June 2025. For more info, please visit www.med4pest.org

The post MED4PEST Project Update: Insights from the General Assembly Meeting first appeared on MED4PEST.

Rabat, the capital of Morocco, finds itself in the throes of a serious rat infestation crisis. The labyrinthine alleys of the old medina, the bustling Yacoub El Mansour district, and the El Youssoufia area are particularly afflicted. Residents lament the increasingly brazen presence of rats in their neighborhoods, disrupting daily life and posing significant health risks, particularly to children and the elderly.

The pervasive nature of this issue has sparked widespread concern among Rabat’s populace, prompting civil society groups to mobilize and call for decisive action from the Rabat City Council. Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, officials have conceded that traditional methods, such as chemical rodenticides, are no longer sufficient. In response, they have opted for a more environmentally friendly approach, embracing biological formulas to curb the burgeoning rat population.

Financial allocations for rat control initiatives have been substantially bolstered, a testament to the severity of the crisis. However, addressing the infestation demands a multifaceted strategy that extends beyond mere extermination efforts. Public awareness campaigns are deemed essential to educate residents about preventative measures and promote community vigilance. Furthermore, comprehensive waste management protocols are imperative to deprive rats of their primary food sources and breeding grounds.

As Rabat endeavors to confront its rat problem head-on, the city underscores the paramount importance of sustainable urban management practices. Preserving public health and safeguarding the city’s rich cultural heritage are paramount objectives that necessitate proactive measures and collaborative engagement from all stakeholders. In the face of adversity, Rabat remains steadfast in its commitment to reclaiming its streets and restoring tranquility to its neighborhoods.

Reference 

Vidéo. Rabat: quand les rats attaquent | le360.ma

Rabat: les rats, les scorpions et les insectes mobilisent les autorités (lesiteinfo.com)

The post Rabat’s Rat Crisis: Navigating the Infestation Through Sustainable Solutions first appeared on MED4PEST.

City life has unique challenges and delights – a vibrant atmosphere, diverse cultures, and bustling streets. Amidst this urban tapestry, Istanbul proudly stands as a city with a rich history and a distinctive charm, made even more special by its feline inhabitants.

In Istanbul, the love for cats is woven into the very fabric of daily life. The city, often affectionately called the “City of Cats,” is home to a thriving population of street-smart felines. Unlike other metropolises where rodent issues can cause concern, people of Istanbul have found a unique solution in their four-legged friends.

As you explore the city’s dynamic neighborhoods, it’s not just common but almost expected to encounter cats leisurely strolling or basking in the sun. These feline inhabitants have become an integral and beloved part of Istanbul’s allure. The people of Istanbul take pride in their city’s feline-friendly identity, creating a unique bond between residents and their furry companions.

This love for cats goes beyond mere sentiment; it’s a communal commitment to caring for these four-legged neighbors. Residents in Istanbul actively contribute to this feline-friendly initiative by setting up feeding stations with water and cat food in green spaces. This collective effort showcases the city’s dedication to the well-being of its beloved guardians.

With its historical architecture and a blend of modernity and tradition, Istanbul provides an ideal environment for this harmonious coexistence. The watchful eyes and playful antics of the city’s cats testify to the understanding that living alongside these creatures enriches the urban experience.

These cats have become silent guardians, creating a balance in the city’s ecosystem. Municipalities in Istanbul actively participate in this initiative, aligning with EBRM (Ecosystem-Based Rodent Management) principles. By leveraging the natural behaviors of cats as predators, the city has adopted a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to pest control.

Moreover, Istanbul proudly showcases its feline-friendly identity through a famous cat sculpture in the Kadikoy district, a popular tourist attraction. This statue is a cultural symbol, emphasizing the city’s unique relationship with its feline residents and highlighting the importance of coexisting with the natural world.

While Istanbul thrives in its harmonious coexistence with cats, other major cities face significant challenges in managing rodent populations. For example, New York City, known for its towering skyscrapers and vibrant energy, grapples with a notorious rat problem. Rats become an unwelcome part of the city’s narrative. Instances of rats scurrying through subway stations or boldly navigating crowded streets have become all too familiar, posing challenges for residents and authorities alike. Beyond the irritation, these rodents pose serious health risks. Rat-borne diseases, such as leptospirosis, have been reported, raising concerns for public health in Newyork. 

Similarly, Paris, the romantic capital of France, also faces its share of rodent challenges. The city’s narrow alleyways and historic structures provide ample hiding spots for rats to thrive. Instances of rats emerging in public spaces or infesting specific neighborhoods have become a persistent issue. The health risks associated with these rodents include the potential spread of diseases such as leptospirosis and hantavirus in Paris. 

As we navigate the challenges of urban living, Istanbul’s success with street cats stands out as a shining example of effective pest control. With its tale of cats and city life, Istanbul represents not just a place to live but a community that embraces its unique harmony with nature, standing in contrast to the health-related challenges faced by other major cities facing with rodent issues.

Reference: 

https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/leptospirosis.page

https://www.politico.eu/article/paris-garbage-strike-rats/

https://www.france24.com/en/20161219-rats-paris-france-invasion-war-city-hall-exploding-rodent-population

The post Maybe the Best Urban Wildlife Harmony is in Istanbul first appeared on MED4PEST.

The post MED4PEST – Producers’ Survey first appeared on MED4PEST.

The post Agricultural supplier’s EBRM survey first appeared on MED4PEST.

Rodent infestations are a common problem for storage facilities around the world, and the damage they cause can be significant. The impact of rodent damage goes beyond the cost of replacing damaged goods, with additional costs incurred from cleaning, fumigation, and loss of business due to reputational damage. In this blog post, we will explore the extent of rodent pest damage in storage facilities, which rodents are causing the problem, how farmers combat against rodent pest damage, and effective solutions such as EBRM practices.

Extent of Rodent Pest Damage in Storage Facilities

Rodent pest damage is a major issue for storage facilities in many countries. According to a study conducted by the USDA, rodent damage costs the US food industry approximately $20 billion annually, and that’s just in the food sector alone. This number does not take into account other industries such as textiles and electronics, which can also suffer significant losses from rodent damage.

The damage caused by rodents can be significant, both in terms of quantity and quality. Rodents can chew through packaging materials, contaminating products with their urine and feces, and creating holes that allow other pests such as insects to enter. This contamination can result in foodborne illness and other health hazards, leading to potential legal liabilities and loss of consumer confidence.

Which Rodents are Causing the Problem?

Several species of rodents can cause problems in storage facilities. The most common are mice and rats, but other rodents such as squirrels, chipmunks, and even raccoons can also cause damage. In the US, the most common rodent species found in storage facilities are the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) and the house mouse (Mus musculus).

Combatting Rodent Pest Damage

Farmers and storage facility managers use a variety of methods to combat rodent pest damage. Traditional methods such as baiting and trapping can be effective, but they can also be time-consuming and costly. Additionally, rodents can develop resistance to certain types of poisons, making them ineffective over time.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Ecologically-Based Rodent Management (EBRM) are two approaches that have been gaining popularity in recent years. These approaches focus on preventing pest infestations before they occur, through a combination of pest monitoring, habitat modification, and cultural controls. By creating an environment that is less attractive to pests, farmers and facility managers can reduce the need for chemical interventions and achieve more sustainable and cost-effective pest control.

Effective Solutions: EBRM Practices

EBRM practices have shown to be effective in reducing rodent populations in storage facilities. The approach involves using multiple strategies to control rodents, including cultural, mechanical, and biological methods. Cultural methods involve modifying the storage environment to make it less attractive to rodents, such as sealing entry points, eliminating food sources, and reducing clutter. Mechanical methods involve using physical barriers and traps to prevent rodents from accessing stored goods. Biological methods involve using natural predators, such as cats or barn owls, to control rodent populations.

The MED4PEST project, a collaboration between MetaMeta Anatolia and other partners, is exploring innovative solutions for rodent pest management. One of the project’s goals is to develop plant-based bio-rodenticides that are effective, eco-friendly, and safe for humans and non-target species. Additionally, the project is developing a unique Raspberry Pi-based rodent monitoring device, which will allow farmers and facility managers to detect rodent activity in real-time and take preventive action before an infestation occurs.

Rodent pest damage in storage facilities is a costly problem that can impact the bottom line of businesses and jeopardize public health. Effective rodent control requires a combination of prevention, and intervention strategies, and the MED4PEST (med4pest.org) project is exploring innovative solutions to help mitigate the impact of rodent pests on agriculture and public health.

References:

United States Department of Agriculture. (2021). Economic Research Service.

Global Market Insights. (2021). Rodenticides Market Size By Product (Anticoagulant, Non-anticoagulant), By Application (Agricultural, Residential, Industrial, Commercial), Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook, Growth Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2021 – 2027.

Hleb, V. (2021). Rodent Management in Food Processing Plants. Pest Control Technology Magazine.

William, L., Olson, K., & Crabb, A. C. (2018). Using ecologically-based rodent management to reduce damage to stored grain in Africa. In Proc. 11th Internat. Working Conf. Stored Prod. Prot. (IWCSPP), Chiang Mai, Thailand.

International Organization for Biological Control (IOBC). (2022). Ecologically-Based Rodent Management.

Gifford, E., & Johnson, C. (2021). Rodent Control in Food Processing Facilities. Food Safety Magazine.

The post Rodent infestations in storage: the silent thief of your profits first appeared on MED4PEST.

Read more here

https://www.sortiraparis.com/en/news/in-paris/articles/276665-paris-est-dans-le-top-5-des-villes-les-plus-infestees-par-les-rats-dans-le-monde?fbclid=IwAR2bzXd0EgGEQNy3HGg0-QNVN7erPbYxLd0DoAFMu143vUGuLJlvH70Ph_U

The post first appeared on MED4PEST.

#ebrm#biorodenticide#rodents#regenerativeagriculture

Cc: PrimaProgramUniversité Mohammed V de RabatFaculté des Sciences de RabatINRA-Maroc : Institut National de la Recherche AgronomiqueHarran UniversityCYENS Centre of Excellence @Ελληνικό Μεσογειακό Πανεπιστήμιο

The post first appeared on MED4PEST.

cc: PrimaProgramINRA-Maroc : Institut National de la Recherche AgronomiqueUniversité Mohammed V de RabatHarran UniversityCYENS Centre of Excellence Ελληνικό Μεσογειακό Πανεπιστήμιο

The post first appeared on MED4PEST.