Identification of some native entomopathogenic fungal species and their pathogenicity against Apple Blossom Beetle, Tropinota (Epicometis) hirta (Poda, 1761) (Coleoptera: Cetoniidae) adults

Abstract

BackgroundEntomopathogenic fungi (EPFs) have more important role in biological control of the important insect pests. In the present study 15 EPF isolates, selected from the EPF culture collection, were identified using molecular methods and their effectiveness against adults of Apple Blossom Beetle (ABB) [Tropinota (= Epicometis) hirta (Poda, 1761) (Coleoptera: Cetoniidae)] was investigated. To determine virulence of isolates against ABB adults, primarily a single-concentration trial was conducted at 1 × 107 conidia ml−1. Furthermore, concentration-mortality trials were conducted with some isolates that were determined to have a high effect, employing concentrations of 1 × 106, 1 × 108, and 1 × 109 conidia ml−1. For isolates tested in concentration-mortality trials, LT30, LT50 and LT90 values at a concentration of 1 × 108 conidia ml−1 were calculated using probit analysis.ResultsMolecular diagnostic tests revealed that the 13 isolates were Beauveria bassiana, 1 isolate was Clonostachys rosea, and 1 isolate was Purpureocillium lilacinum. According to the single- concentration trial data, some isolates with high efficacy were selected (GN16, GN22-1, GN29-1, HP3-1 and HP33-1) and concentration-mortality trials were established with these isolates using 1 × 106, 1 × 108 and 1 × 109 conidia ml−1 concentrations. According to the results of the concentration-mortality trials, all isolates used in 1 × 108 and 1 × 109 conidia ml−1 concentrations started to show a significant effect from the 11th day, and at the end of the 17th day, the effect in all concentrations was over 90% (except 1 × 106 conidia ml−1 concentration of GN22-1).ConclusionsAccording to the data obtained, all isolates used in concentration-mortality trials were effective against ABB adults. With these isolates, more detailed studies should be conducted under orchard conditions.