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Meeting Description

Meeting of the IOBC-WPRS WG “Integrated Control in Citrus Fruit Crops”

We are pleased to announce the upcoming meeting of the Working Group on “Integrated Control in Citrus Fruit Crops”, scheduled for November 25-27, 2025, in Castellón de la Plana, Spain. The meeting will take place at the Universitat Jaume I.

This conference will provide an exceptional platform for exchanging insights and engaging in discussions on citrus-related pests, pathogens, and weeds. We’ll focus on innovative management strategies and methods for citrus orchards and address emerging threats from new pests and diseases impacting the Mediterranean region or posing risks to the citrus industry.

During the conference several aspects of IPM in citrus in relation to arthropod pests, pathogens and weeds will be covered. The proposed scientific sessions, among other things, will deal with:

  • Pest ecology
  • Integrated pest management
  • Biocontrol strategies and methods
  • Citrus diseases and weeds
  • Challenges and opportunities of novel technological tools
  • Emerging pests and diseases
  • Biodiversity, conservation and sustainability

Sessions will feature 30-minute introductory presentations by invited speakers, followed by 15-minute general presentations and daily poster sessions. A mid-conference tour is planned, offering participants the chance to visit citrus orchards in the Castellón de la Plana area, one of Spain’s key citrus-producing regions.

Download:

Meeting website: https://www.fue.uji.es/IOBCCitrus


Participants of the meeting of the IOBC-WPRS WG “Integrated Control in Citrus Fruit Crops”, 25-27 November 2025, Castellón de la Plana, Spain

IOBC-WPRS General Assembly 2025

Dear Members of the IOBC-WPRS,

On behalf of the Executive Committee, we are pleased to invite you to attend the General Assembly of the IOBC-WPRS, which will take place in Mikulov, Czech Republic, from October 16 to 17, 2025. Download: Programme (pdf)

This Assembly will be held immediately following the IOBC-WPRS Working Group meeting on “Integrated Protection in Viticulture”, at the HOTEL Galant (Mlynská 2, 69201 Mikulov), which will also serve as the venue for our meeting.

During the Assembly, we expect short presentations from the convenors of the Commissions, Study Groups, and Working Groups, highlighting key achievements, future plans, and current challenges. In addition, we have foreseen more time for selected groups, where more discussion is needed / important decisions have to be taken. If you have specific topics you would like to see included in the agenda, please share them with us at your earliest convenience so we can consider their inclusion in the final programme.

Financial support for participants will be provided by IOBC-WPRS, covering:

  • Economy travel (reimbursed after the meeting upon presentation of receipts)
  • Two nights of accommodation (October 15 and 16) at HOTEL Galant (to be arranged and paid directly by IOBC)
  • Meals during the meeting

Download ePublication: IOBC-WPRS Bulletin Vol. 183, 2026  (pdf)
15th General Assembly
at Mikulov (Czech Republic), 16-17 October, 2025
Edited by: Paula Baptista, Giselher Grabenweger, Annette Herz and Ute Koch
ISBN 978-92-9067-370-5 [XIII + 116 pp.].


Participants of the 15th IOBC-WPRS General Assembly at Mikulov (Czech Republic), 16-17 October, 2025

Meeting of the IOBC-WPRS WG “Integrated Protection in Viticulture”

Plant protection in viticulture has become a subject of ongoing debate due to the adverse effects of pesticide use on both human health and the environment. In response, the EU has implemented several initiatives aimed at mitigating the negative impacts of intensive farming practices and promoting a shift towards more ecologically based pest management strategies. Additionally, climate change presents distinct regional challenges for wine-growing areas across Europe. While some regions face extreme conditions such as heat, drought, and wildfires, others contend with prolonged rainfall and fungal diseases. The primary challenge is to develop sustainable and effective plant protection and cultivation systems that are tailored to the specific needs of each region. Although research in this area has produced impressive results, implementing these findings into practical solutions remains a significant hurdle. For our working group, representing the wine-growing regions of the Western Palearctic, it is crucial to scientifically understand regional sustainability bottlenecks and communicate to policymakers that these challenges can vary considerably across different regions.

We are pleased to invite you to the Conference of the IOBC-WPRS Working Group on “Integrated Protection in Viticulture”, which will be held in Mikulov, Czech Republic, from October 13 to 15, 2025. This international conference will bring together scientists, researchers, students, and consultants focusing on biological control and integrated protection in viticulture. The event offers an opportunity to exchange ideas and discuss the latest research findings, while also identifying promising avenues for future research. The symposium is organized by Mendel University in Brno and the Winegrowers’ Association of the Czech Republic under the auspices of the International Organisation for Biological and Integrated Control (IOBC).

Download: First announcement (pdf) 

Conference website: https://event.fourwaves.com/ipvc/pages

Download ePublication: IOBC-WPRS Bulletin Vol. 184, 2026 (pdf)
Working Group “Integrated Protection in Viticulture”
Proceedings of the Meeting at Mikulov (Czech Republic), 13-15 October, 2025
Edited by: Christoph Hoffmann, Patrik Kehrli, Agnès Calonnec, René Fuchs, Tirtza Zahavi, Anna Markheiser, Jorge Sofia, Cesar Gemeno
ISBN 978-92-9067-371-2 [XIV + 170 pp.].


Participants of the Meeting of the IOBC-WPRS Working Group “Integrated Protection in Viticulture” at Mikulov (Czech Republic), 13-15 October, 2025

25th Australasian Plant Pathology Society Conference (APPS 2025)

From Field to Future, Scientific Collections and Plant Pathology

Celebrate the 25th Australasian Plant Pathology Society conference in Sydney in 2025!

The 2025 conference theme is “From Field to Future, Scientific Collections and Plant Pathology”

Humans have been collecting biological specimens for hundreds of years. These specimens form the foundation of all biological studies, and these collections are more valuable than ever before as we strive to understand and protect the world around us

Plant pathology collections are valuable to agriculture, ecology, and biosecurity, preserving specimens, and living cultures, from both economically and environmentally important plant species. At the 25th APPS conference we aim to put the spotlight on these collections, highlighting their role in research and biosecurity and how they can be used, and improved, to ensure they continue to be a vital resource for researchers and decision makers into the future.

Plus all your favourite plant pathology topics!

Conference website: https://www.apps2025.org

 

 

IOBC-WPRS WG “Integrated Protection of Fruit Crops”, Joint Meeting of Sub-Groups “Pome Fruit Arthropods” & “Pome Fruit Diseases”

The goal of the joint meeting of the Sub-Groups “Pome Fruit Arthropods” and “Pome Fruit Diseases” within the IOBC-WPRS WG “Integrated Protection of Fruit Crops” is to bring together the latest advances in research of pome fruit pest and diseases, to provide an opportunity for exchange of information and ideas and to stimulate common research and collaboration. The workshop program includes oral and poster sessions, plenary discussions, a meeting with growers and advisors and a one-day excursion.

Preliminary program

  • Sunday 14th September 2025– Arrival – Registration and Welcome Drinks
  • Monday 15th September 2025– Platform presentations
  • Tuesday September 16th 2025 – Field trip & Work Shop Dinner
  • Wednesday September 17th 2025 – Platform presentations
  • Thursday September 18th 2025 – Platform presentations (morning) – Departure.

Download:

 

BENEFruits, Joint Meeting of Sub-Groups “Pome Fruit Arthropods” & “Pome Fruit Diseases”, 14.-18.09.2025, Wageningen, The Netherlands: Tim Belien, Michelle Fountain, Herman Helsen and Markus Wenneker (from left)
BENEFruits, Joint Meeting of Sub-Groups “Pome Fruit Arthropods” & “Pome Fruit Diseases”, 14.-18.09.2025, Wageningen, The Netherlands: Tim Belien, Michelle Fountain, Herman Helsen and Markus Wenneker (from left)

11th Meeting of the IOBC-WPRS WG “Integrated Protection in Oak Forest”

The 11th meeting of the IOBC-WPRS Working Group “Integrated Protection in Oak Forest” aims to promote the exchange of knowledge between colleagues from the two shores of the Mediterranean on all aspects of integrated protection of oak forests.

We aim that the high-quality contributions will stimulate interactions between representatives of extension services, researchers and industry to define new approaches to meet the future needs for sustainable protection of oak forests. We will have plenty of room for discussion and sharing of information on the topic themes.

The meeting will also be a good opportunity to strengthen contacts between scientists and develop collaborations in academia for joint projects.

Main topics on integrated protection of oak forests:

  • Oak diseases (bacteria, fungi, oomycetes and others)
  • Oak pests (defoliators, xylophagous, nematodes and other pests)
  • Pest and pathogen interactions
  • Climate change, environmental and fire hazard issues
  • Biodiversity
  • Molecular biology and ecology
  • Plant physiology
  • Sustainable forest management and innovative monitoring and control strategies

Download:

Meeting website: https://www.iobc2025.eu

9th Meeting of the IOBC-WPRS WG “Integrated Control of Plant-Feeding Mites”

The 9th meeting of the IOBC-WPRS WG “Integrated Control of Plant-Feeding Mites” invites scientists and professionals from both public and private sectors, as well as graduate and postgraduate students, to join us in exploring advancements in the integrated control of mite pests affecting greenhouse and open field crops.

The areas of interest for the Working Group include:

  • Innovative developments in biological and chemical mite control
  • Strategies for integrated management of mite pests
  • Biology, ecology, and behavior of predatory mites and their prey, both above and below ground
  • Faunistic studies regarding pests and their predators
  • Impacts of climate change on mite pest management

 We look forward to welcoming you in Izmir! 

More Information:

Meeting Website: https://iobcizmir2025.cu.edu.tr

Book of Abstracts (pdf)

Biostimulants Europe 2025

Driving Innovation and Growth in Sustainable Agriculture

ACI’s Biostimulants Europe 2025 conference brings together industry leaders, researchers, scientists, and professionals from the biostimulants sector. The conference serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and discussions on the latest advancements, challenges, and opportunities in the field of biostimulants.

Key topics:

  • Global Biostimulants Market Outlook & Update
  • Policy & Regulation
  • Getting Biostimulants Approved In line with Legislations
  • Exploring the Demand for Various Raw Materials
  • Formulations and New Developments to Enhance your Businesses Product Portfolio
  • Opportunities for the Integration of Biostimulants
  • Quality & Credibility of Biostimulant Substances
  • Seed Treatments and the Benefits on Plant Health
  • Technological Advancements to Optimise Biostimulants
  • The Future of Biostimulants

Website: https://www.wplgroup.com/aci/event/biostimulants-europe

14th Arab Conference of Plant Protection, Algeria, 2025 (ACPP2025)

Theme: Plant Health for Sustainable Food Security

The congress will include high-level lectures presented by Arab and foreign researchers that will form the backbone of the conference program, in addition to a one-day agricultural-touristic trip to historical, cultural, and agricultural landmarks in Algeria.

The congress will provide opportunities to build new professional relationships and strengthen old ones with colleagues from around the world who have common interests through scientific seminars, oral and poster presentation sessions, or by visiting the exhibition accompanying the congress. This congress will be an opportunity to exchange experiences and establish partnerships between universities and research centers and to learn about the latest developments in the field of plant protection in the Arab world about the spread of diseases and the impact of climate change on pests, in addition to ways for their monitoring, control and reducing their impact on Arab food security.

Conference website: https://acpp-aspp.com

17th Congress of the Mediterranean Phytopathological Union (MPU2025)

The upcoming Congress of the Mediterranean Phytopathological Union, titled: “New Phytopathology Frontiers of Research and Education for Plant Health and Food Safety” aims to promote education and research as essential tools to address the new challenges of phytopathology and food safety, thereby raising community awareness and promoting a responsible, ecological and sustainable future.

The Congress will serve as a forum to facilitate the exchange of cutting-edge scientific knowledge, to encourage dialogue between researchers, policymakers, industry and other stakeholders in plant and food health and to empower a robust and connected knowledge community that collaborates towards shared goals and objectives.

We are planning to hold a major event to showcase the role of Education and Research in Phytopathology, for food security and safety, and help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

There can be no sustainable future for phytopathology and food safety without the support of fresh ideas and solutions provided by early career researchers. Participation of young researchers is therefore strongly encouraged, and reduced registration fees are available for students and fellows. Awards will be given to best student posters and presentations.

Congress website: https://ciheambaricongressmpu2025.org

14th Conference of the European Foundation for Plant Pathology (EFPP2025)

Conference website: www.efpp2025.com

Biological Control as a Tool for Managing Invasive Alien Plants

4-day Workshop of the European Weed Research Society (EWRS) WGs „Invasive Alien Plants“ and „Biological Control“

Invasive Alien Plants (IAP) are one of the main drivers of biodiversity loss and their economic impacts are on the rise worldwide. Tackling IAP follows a simple strategy: prevention, early detection, rapid response and finally containment or management. Appropriate weed control techniques are applied in managed and unmanaged areas where prevention has been unsuccessful. Biological control is a safe and sustainable method that can be used as part of an integrated IAP management plan. The Workshop is aiming to review and discuss recent advances and developments regarding the most problematic invasive alien plants, as well as the benefits, opportunities and limits of biological control in terms of their management.

The aim of the Workshop is to review the most recent data and developments regarding the most problematic invasive alien plants, as well as the benefits, opportunities and limits of biological control in terms of the IAP management. The Workshop is aimed at the students, PhD candidates, as well as established scientists from all over the world.

The Workshop will be divided into 7 sections:

  1. The current status of the most problematic invasive alien plants
  2. New plant invasions in agriculture, forestry, ruderal habitats and aquatic ecosystems
  3. The potential opportunities and challenges of biological control for the management of IAP
  4. The public acceptance and attitude towards IAP and biological control as a management strategy
  5. Introducing the planned COST action regarding the biological control of the IAP in Europe
  6. Discussion regarding the future collaboration between the “Invasive Alien Plants” and “Biological Control” Working Groups (project and paper proposals, future meetings, etc.)
  7. Field trip

Workshop website: https://ewrs.org/en/info/Events/Biological-Control-as-a-Tool-for-Managing-Invasive-Alien-Plants

International Symposium on Plant Pathogenic Sclerotiniaceae (BotryScleroMoni 2025)

Joint

ΧΙΧ International Botrytis Symposium
XVII International Sclerotinia Workshop
II International Monilinia Workshop

The closely related Botrytis, Sclerotinia and Monilinia fungal genera represent major threats of several important crops worldwide. Botry Sclero Moni 2025 is a joint symposium organized by the Botrytis, Sclerotinia and Monilinia communities that aims to bring together scientists from all over the world with different expertise and research interests related to plant pathogenic Sclerotiniaceae

The BotryScleroMoni 2025 symposium will be based on invited key lectures, oral presentations and posters inspiring to offer a scientific program of high quality that will cover all the most relevant aspects of Botrytis, Sclerotinia and Monilinia research, including detection and identification, genetics, biology, omics, post-genomics and host-pathogen interactions, ecology and epidemiology, and modern disease management approaches.

The joint “ΧΙΧ International Botrytis Symposium”, “XVII International Sclerotinia Workshop” and “II International Monilinia Workshop” will be a great scientific and social experience for everyone. In addition to a high quality scientific program We aspire to offer an attractive cultural and social program for all the participants. We are waiting for you to join this symposium and share your studies with participants.

Symposium website: https://botryscleromoni.com/

XVII Meeting of the IOBC-WPRS WG “Biological and Integrated Control of Plant Pathogens”

From single microbes to microbiome targeting One Health

The XVII meeting of the Working Group “Biological and Integrated Control of Plant Pathogens” will focus on the holistic framework of One Health, by discussing on how biocontrol of plant diseases, beside improving plant health, favours also soil, animal, and human health. Understanding the concept of pathobiome and plant-microbiome interactions will help to foster new biocontrol solutions. Biocontrol agents can be used to develop microbe-based products, but are also a rich source of natural plant protection products, useful in crop protection in association to biostimulants, biofertilizers, and plant strengtheners.

Students, experts, researchers, and other stakeholders interested in exploring potential enhancements in biological control and its application are warmly invited to take part. The conference aim is also to encourage attendees to create new networks with a vision to develop future collaborations.

The meeting will address the following main topics:

  1. Biocontrol for soil, plant, animal, and human health targeting One Health
  2. Biocontrol for resilient cropping systems tackling climate change
  3. Biocontrol of emerging and complex plant diseases
  4. Soil and plant biodiversity: unexplored sources of potential biocontrol agents
  5. Single strains, synthetic consortia, and microbiomes: challenges in characterization, storage, and use
  6. Mechanisms behind microbe-microbe and plant-microbe interactions
  7. Mass production, formulation, and application of biocontrol agents
  8. Industry and academia: a winning partnership for biocontrol product development
  9. Commercial use of microbials for integrated and organic disease management
  10. Legislation, ethics, and socio-economical aspects related to the use of microorganisms in agriculture
  11. Targeting the Farm to Fork approach: consumer, farmer, environment, and policy needs
  12. Biocontrol, biostimulants, biofertilizers and plant strengtheners: growing requests to microorganisms
  13. Plant breeding targeting biocontrol
  14. Beyond cells: microbial products against plant diseases

Meeting website: https://www.iobctorino2025.org

Download ePublication: IOBC-WPRS Bulletin Vol. 177, 2025  (pdf)
Working Group “Biological and Integrated Control of Plant Pathogens”
Preceedings of the 17th Meeting “From single microbes to microbiomes targeting one health”, Torino (Italy), 11-14 June, 2025
Edited by: Monica Mezzalama, Tomislav Cernava and Davide Spadaro.
ISBN 978-92-9067-364-4 [XXIV + 273 pp.].


Participants of the 17th meeting of the IOBC-WPRS WG “Biological and Integrated Control of Plant Pathogens”, 11-14 June 2025, Torino, Italy

 

Plant Pathology 2024 (PPATH2024)

Annual meeting of the British Society for Plant Pathology.

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