Efficacy of biological insecticides against Helicoverpa armigera in sweet corn crop (Zea mays saccharata)

Abstract

'Helicoverpa armigera' Hubner (H. armigera) is significant pest to corn crops and a constant problem for farmers. The objective of this research was to obtain a more effective insecticide for suppressing the population and intensity of 'H. armigera', as well as providing high economic value for sweet corn crops. The following experiment uses a randomized block design, consisting of 4 treatments and 6 replications, the treatments are a control (P0 = without insecticides), P1 = biological insecticide (Beauveria bassiana 5 g.l-1) , P2 = botanic insecticide (pandan wangi leaf extracts 5 ml.l-1), and P3 = chemical insecticide (Deltamethrin synthetic 3 ml.l-1). The results show that the application of various types of insecticides has a significant effect on population density of larvae, intensity of 'H. armigera' presence, and sweet-corn crop yield. All types of insecticides applied are highly effective but the effectiveness of 'Beauveria bassiana' 5 g.l-1 tends to be greater in comparison to others. The highest cost-benefit ratio was obtained from the application of the biological insecticide followed by the botanic insecticide and the chemical insecticide.