Impact of Entomopathogenic Fungi on the Growth, Development, and Health of Cabbage Growing under Water Stress

Abstract

Entomopathogenic fungi such as Beauveria bassiana, Isaria fumosorosea, and Metarhizium brunneum are commonly used in the form of biopesticides to manage various arthropod pests. These fungi also form endophytic and mycorrhiza-like relationships with plants. This study aimed at evaluating the impact of three entomopathogenic fungi on the growth, development, and health of cabbage plants grown under artificial lighting with limited water. Beauveria bassiana had a positive influence on the survival, growth, health, length, and dry weight of cabbage. Other fungi also had a positive impact on some of the measured parameters. Other beneficial bacteria and mycorrhizae were also compared with the entomopathogenic fungi. This is the first report evaluating the non-entomopathogenic role of three entomopathogenic fungi on cabbage plants.