Nanoparticles alter locust development and behaviour†

Abstract

Locusts, among the world's most destructive migratory pests, threaten food security by devastating crops and pastures. Conventional chemical insecticides pose environmental and health risks, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives. We demonstrate the efficacy of nickel ferrite (NiFe₂O₄) nanoparticles (36 ± 10 nm), as a safe, cost-effective insecticide for locust management. These NiFe₂O₄ nanoparticles disrupt locust development by impairing blastokinesis and growth, thus resulting in malformed nymphs with compacted abdomens and disorganised body structures – primarily arising from significantly lower heart rates (30 bpm for control vs. 20 bpm for embryos exposed to NiFe₂O₄) and changes to end-diastolic and end-systolic dimensions. Adult locusts retained ingested nanoparticles in their coelomic cavities, which could potentially be used as traceable markers for swarm tracking. Additionally, the nanoparticles were recoverable from soil with over 90% efficiency, minimising potential ecological impact. Our research therefore offers an innovative nanotechnology-based solution for sustainable and effective locust management.