REENFORCE at ECE 2026!

A major forum for European entomology

The European Congress of Entomology is one of the principal gatherings for entomologists across Europe and beyond. Its programme covers insect and mite biology, ecology and pest management. For REENFORCE, the congress was a well-suited venue for sharing project research with specialists who work directly on the challenges the project addresses.

Understanding resistance in the two-spotted spider mite

Tetranychus urticae, the two-spotted spider mite, is a highly polyphagous pest that damages a wide range of crops. It is also known for its ability to develop resistance to acaricides. Resistance of this kind reduces the effectiveness of available control options, and it makes the underlying genetic mechanisms an important subject for research that supports more sustainable crop protection.

The UGent contribution presented genetic tools for studying acaricide resistance in this species. Such tools help researchers identify and characterise the genetic factors behind resistance, which is a necessary step towards understanding how resistance arises and spreads. They also contribute to the wider effort to develop and apply crop protection strategies that remain effective over time.

Engaging the research community

The main aim of the presentation was to interact with the research community. The session allowed UGent to share its methods and approaches with fellow researchers, gather feedback and exchange ideas with colleagues working on related questions. Exchanges of this kind help the project's research reach its intended audiences and strengthen links between REENFORCE and the wider scientific community.