Advancing Wasp Biocontrol Research: Insights from a Nanopore Sequencing Visit to Newcastle University.
Context of the Research Visit
In agricultural pest management, molecular methods like metabarcoding provide valuable insights into predator-prey dynamics. Unlike traditional observational approaches, these DNA-based techniques enable precise, non-invasive identification of prey species from partially digested gut contents. This capability is crucial in addressing food insecurity caused by agricultural pests, such as the fall armyworm (FAW), a destructive pest affecting maize and other staple crops in sub-Saharan Africa. Current pest control methods heavily depend on synthetic pesticides, which harm biodiversity and human health while degrading soil quality. Social wasps, particularly Belonogaster wasps, are natural predators of crop pests and present a sustainable alternative for pest control. However, a lack of detailed dietary data limits their use as effective biocontrol agents. This research visit sought to address this knowledge gap by leveraging cutting-edge molecular technologies to identify specific prey consumed by Belonogaster larvae.

Objectives of the Research Visit
The primary objective of the research visit was to explore the potential of Belonogaster wasps as sustainable biocontrol agents by analyzing their diets using nanopore sequencing. This involved learning and applying advanced molecular techniques to accurately identify prey species from wasp larvae gut samples. Specific goals included acquiring hands-on experience with nanopore sequencing technology and related processes like DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and sequencing library preparation. The visit also aimed to strengthen collaborations with Newcastle University’s Foraging Ecology Research Group and Molecular
Diagnostic Laboratory, fostering opportunities for future research and knowledge exchange. Additionally, the project emphasized testing nanopore sequencing as a cost-effective, portable solution for field-based ecological studies, particularly in resource-limited settings like sub-Saharan Africa.
Research Activities and Technical Training
The research visit, held from September 17–27, 2024, provided intensive training in molecular diagnostics and sequencing technologies. Activities began with DNA extraction from Belonogaster gut samples, employing the KingFisher Flex system for automated purification. PCR amplification was conducted to validate primer specificity and prepare tagged-primer plates for sequencing. Training progressed to nanopore sequencing, using Flongle flow cells to generate long-read DNA data efficiently. The preparation of sequencing libraries involved multiple steps, including end-repair, adapter ligation, and purification with AMPure XP beads. Each step was meticulously executed to ensure high-quality results and reproducibility. This hands-on experience significantly enhanced technical proficiency, equipping the researcher to conduct independent experiments and share these skills with the wider scientific community.


Outcomes and Future Directions
Although the sequencing data is yet to be fully analyzed, the visit successfully established a strong foundation for ecological pest control research. The data will likely reveal key dietary patterns of Belonogaster wasps, offering insights into their role in managing pests like FAW. This knowledge could lead to developing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that reduce pesticide reliance while improving sustainability and biodiversity. Beyond technical achievements, the visit fostered long-term collaborations with Newcastle University, enabling future joint research and grant opportunities. Plans include publishing the findings, conducting workshops, and applying nanopore sequencing in field-based ecological studies. The visit underscored the transformative potential of advanced molecular diagnostics for addressing global agricultural challenges.