| Agro-Ecological Interactions Between Pests and Beneficials in the Extreme North-East of Algeria |
| Paper ID : 1322-IGA |
| Authors |
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Farida BECIR *1, Rania Alim2 1Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, El-Tarf University 2Chedli Bendjedid University |
| Abstract |
| Background and Aim: he ecological sustainability of agricultural landscapes depends on maintaining a dynamic balance between pest populations and their natural enemies. In north-eastern Algeria, particularly within and around the El Kala National Park, diverse habitats support both harmful and beneficial arthropods. This study provides a comprehensive synthesis of existing data on pest and auxiliary insect fauna in the region, with the aim of assessing their diversity, ecological interactions, and implications for sustainable pest management. Materials and Methods: The analysis was based on institutional archives and technical reports provided by the El Kala National Park (PNEK), the Directorate of Agricultural Services (DSA), and the Forest Conservation Department, complemented by published studies conducted between 2015 and 2025. Taxonomic identification and functional classification focused on arthropods associated with major agroecosystems, including cereals, vegetable crops, and forest margins. Results: The synthesis revealed a remarkable diversity of arthropods, comprising major pest taxa such as Spodoptera littoralis, Helicoverpa armigera, Sitophilus oryzae, and Bemisia tabaci, all of which cause significant economic losses. Conversely, a wide array of beneficial insects was documented, notably Coccinella septempunctata, Hippodamia variegata, Episyrphus balteatus, and hymenopteran parasitoids (Braconidae, Ichneumonidae). Their presence and abundance indicate that natural regulation processes remain active within these agroecosystems. Conclusion: The coexistence of pest and beneficial arthropods highlights a still-functioning but increasingly fragile ecological equilibrium. Anthropogenic pressures—especially pesticide use and habitat simplification—threaten this balance. Strengthening biological control through Integrated Pest Management (IPM), habitat diversification, and ecological infrastructure (e.g., flower strips, hedgerows) appears essential to preserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable crop protection. This synthesis constitutes the first regional overview of pest–auxiliary interactions in north-eastern Algeria and provides a scientific basis for future agroecological policies. |
| Keywords |
| Beneficial insects, crop pests, biodiversity, biological control, El Kala National Park, north-eastern Algeria. |
| Status: Accepted |
