Insects and globalization: sustainable control of exotic species in Italian agro-forestry ecosystems

One of the negative consequences of globalization is the increasingly introduction of exotic pests into new areas. Italy, in particular, is at high risk of introduction, because of its geographical position and climate, which allows the settlement of exotic species, even subtropical. The mechanisms involved in adaptation processes, crucial in studies of biological invasions, are only partially known. It is therefore needed a joint effort by researchers operating in Italy and abroad to counter this phenomenon and to develop appropriate strategies for sustainable control of exotic species. The present work illustrates the objectives and preliminary results of the project “ Insects and globalization: sustainable control of exotic species in agro-forestry ecosystems (GEISCA)” specifically targeted at the control of exotic species introduced into Italy, with special respect to the action exerted against them by native entomophagous insects. The overall goal of the project is to gain, at the end of three years, useful knowledge on the development of appropriate procedures for sustainable control of target pest species.