Objectives

The Ecological Genomics Research Center Starting from the needs and problems, with the aim of ensuring national food security and sustainable ecological development of the Greater Bay Area in Guangdong, and guided by the "major national biological security tasks" of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, we fully leverage the advantages of genomics technology and utilize multi-omics approaches to address the adaptive evolution mechanisms of major pests, the spread mechanisms of significant alien invasive species, and the pathogenic mechanisms of key agricultural pathogens. We aim to develop intelligent monitoring and early warning systems, biological controls, physical and chemical attraction and control measures, as well as ecological regulation and other green prevention and control technologies and products. This will establish a comprehensive green prevention and control system that involves fundamental applied research, key product development, and technology demonstration.

Research Direction

1.The harmful mechanisms of crop pests and invasive species :

Using multi-omics technology and gene editing as two key approaches, we comprehensively apply genetics, molecular ecology, cell biology, and other disciplines to decode the harmful mechanisms of important crop pests, the interaction mechanisms with hosts and natural enemies, and the mechanisms of biological invasion. We aim to achieve significant theoretical breakthroughs in these areas.

2.Research and development of new prevention and control technologies

Based on the excavation of important virulence genes of pests and the identification of key molecular targets, monitoring and early warning technologies can be developed. New green prevention and control technologies can be developed through gene editing, RNAi, sex pheromones, insect sterilization, and other technologies.

3.Demonstration and promotion of prevention and control techniques

Guided by the national strategy of rural revitalization, we aims to provide overall monitoring, early warning, and prevention and control solutions for crop pest and disease problems as well as invasive species issues facing the national level and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Based on these issues, we will conduct research on reverse solutions and customize appropriate strategies according to local conditions. Finally, we will form a virtuous cycle of prevention and control products-demonstration-feedback-research.