Insecticidal potency of <scp>RNAi</scp>‐based <i>catalase</i> knockdown in <i>Rhynchophorus ferrugineus</i> (Oliver) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Abstract

Catalase enzyme is found in most insect body tissues, and thus its dsRNA can cause broad-scale gene knockdown within the insect body, depending upon the application method. Significant larval mortality and growth inhibition after catalase knockdown in R. ferrugineus confirms its insecticidal potency and suggests a bright future for RNAi-based bioinsecticides in pest control. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.