Despite the wide use of agrochemicals, our understanding of their non-target effects are scarce. For instance, fungicide application in the field is considered to impose selection only on fungal pathogens, while non-target insects are simultaneously affected. Fungicides target chitin pathways, which could also select for tougher cuticle among insects rendering insecticides in turn inefficient. Fungicides may select also insect gut mycobiome, a largely unknown part of insect gut microbiome and, thus alter insecticide effects. By taking an advantage of fungicide resistance action committee's (FRAC) mode of action classification, we will test experimentally can fungicides affect the Colorado potato beetle's and honeybee's physiology (respiration, lipidome, cell wall) and mycobiome (diversity/volume) and test the extend these changes alter also insecticide susceptibility. If fungicides effect extent on insect's life-history, it could shed also light to the recent decline of insects.

2024

2028