The potency of fungal entomopathogens isolated from Spodoptera frugiperda as endophytic plant-growth promoter

Abstract

Previous studies have identified endophytic fungi as plant growth promoters and insect pest management. In the current study, six fungal isolates of Metarhizium anisopliae and Beauveria bassiana were isolated from larval corpses of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) and tested for their ability to colonize leaf tissue through root and leaf applications or foliar-spray and to promote the growth of young maize (Zea mays) plants. The maize growth attributes examined were germination rate, height, dry and fresh weight, and leaf area. The research was conducted in May until June 2023 in Universitas Sriwijaya, Indonesia. The results revealed that M. anisopliae and B. bassiana were isolated from the cadavers of S. frugiperda and confirmed to be endophytic fungi. Root application was more effective to enhance the fresh weight, plant height, and leaf area of maize compared to foliar-spray. The fungi could significantly enhance the fresh weight, plant height, and leaf area of the young maize plants. The best isolate that could enhance the maize growth was the B. bassiana WTTJC260521A isolate. These findings suggest that M. anisopliae and B. bassiana isolated from fall armyworm corpses that had the potential to enhance maize plant growth through root applicaton.