Novel insect-specific viruses and their potential for biocontrol in the Australian sugarcane industry

Advancements in next-generation sequencing (NGS) have led to significant breakthroughs in identifying novel insect-specific viruses within key root-feeding pests of the Australian sugarcane industry, including soldier flies (Inopus spp.) and canegrubs (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). Our ongoing research, still in the early stages of discovery, has identified diverse RNA viruses, such as dicistroviruses, totiviruses, and picorna-like viruses, some of which show potential as biological control agents due to their reported pathogenicity in other insect hosts. This virus-discovery approach has demonstrated significant value for both surveillance and pest management. Some of these viruses might be plant viruses that use insects as vectors, whilst transferring during feeding. In either case, these viruses warrant further investigation to determine whether they damage crops or are entomopathogenic with potential for development as biological control agents. Implementing virus-based biocontrol for root-feeding pests of sugarcane would not only reduce reliance on chemicals, some of which are banned in Europe and under review in Australia but also complement integrated pest management strategies. Our research holds promise for delivering effective, eco-friendly control options for managing root-feeding pests in the Australian sugarcane industry.