Biological control strategies for arthropod pest management in cannabis cultivation

Overview

This research program addresses a critical gap in cannabis cultivation by developing biological control strategies for managing arthropod pests. Current biocontrol methods perform poorly on Cannabis sativa due to the plant's dense glandular trichomes and its production of secondary metabolites such as terpenes and cannabinoids. By systematically evaluating how these morphological and biochemical traits influence the behavior and effectiveness of predatory mites, parasitoids, and other natural enemies, the program aims to create sustainable, crop-specific pest management protocols for a rapidly expanding and high-value agricultural sector.

The work is particularly relevant to cannabis producers facing limited pesticide options, regulatory restrictions, and the economic risks of pest outbreaks. Outcomes will support growers seeking reduced reliance on chemical controls while maintaining crop quality and yield.

Technical specifications

Research approach:

• Arena assays to measure dispersal ability and retention time of predators and parasitoids on cannabis plants
• Olfactometry experiments to test whether cannabis-derived terpenes trigger behavioral responses in biological control agents such as Aphidius ervi and Chrysoperla carnea
• Life history studies of parasitoids developing on cannabis aphid (Phorodon cannabis), a novel and poorly characterized pest
• Evaluation of trichome density effects on predator movement, predation rates, and parasitoid dispersal
• Investigation of terpene interactions, including compounds such as (E)-β-caryophyllene and limonene, with natural enemy host-finding behavior

Key considerations:

• Cannabis trichome density may reduce predator and parasitoid foraging efficiency
• Constitutively produced terpenes may either attract or interfere with natural enemy host-finding cues
• The cannabis aphid is a novel host, requiring baseline biological data before effective biocontrol can be deployed

Technology readiness level

This program is at an early-to-mid research stage. Prior laboratory work has established that trichome density influences predatory mite movement and predation on other crops, and that terpenes can serve as prey-finding cues for parasitoids. Validation is now needed specifically in cannabis systems through controlled arena assays, olfactometry trials, and parasitoid life history studies on Phorodon cannabis. Outputs will include evidence-based recommendations for biological control agent selection and deployment strategies tailored to cannabis production environments.