Entomopathogenic Fungi Research Articles

Characterization and pathogenicity of newly recorded Clonostachys rogersoniana against woolly apple aphid (Eriosoma lanigerum Hausmann) from India

BackgroundWoolly apple aphid (Eriosoma lanigerum Hausmann) (Homoptera: Aphididae) infests the aerial and edaphic portions of apple trees. It is responsible for the serious qualitative and quantitative reduction in apple fruits. This pest is mainly managed by chemical insecticides, so this present study was focused on the isolation of native entomopathogenic fungi (EPF), studying their growth characteristics and virulence against woolly apple aphids.ResultsClonostachys rogersoniana, as an EPF from an insect cadaver, was isolated and characterized, using morphological, microscopic, and molecular techniques. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the occurrence of this fungus from India and it is named “C. rogersoniana isolate PUSACR01”. The radial growth and conidial yield of this isolate were excellent on PDAY among ten different culture media, whereas the relative growth rate and conidial germination were good on PDA and CA. The isolated fungus showed 85 and 86.67% mortality rates in adult females of the woolly apple aphid on day 11 at a concentration of 1.0 × 107 and 1.0 × 108 conidia ml−1, respectively. The LC50 values determined by probit regression analysis for days 7, 9, and 11 were 1.12 × 107, 2.52 × 106, and 4.74 × 105 conidia ml−1, respectively, while LT50 for concentrations of 1.0 × 105, 1.0 × 106, 1.0 × 107, and 1.0 × 108 conidia ml−1 were 18.73, 9.39, 6.71, and 5.03 days, respectively.ConclusionBased on the present study, C. rogersoniana would be considered a good biological control agent against the woolly apple aphid in apple orchards.

SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIES FOR ODONATA MANAGEMENT IN FISH FARMING: REVIEW AND IMPLICATIONS

This study conducted a systematic review of the literature on predation of Odonata larvae in fish farming, using databases such as Google Scholar and SciELO. The results showed that predation can reduce the survival of fry by up to 30%, impacting the productivity of ponds. Alternative control methods, such as natural extracts and entomopathogenic fungi, were analyzed, which proved to be effective without the negative effects of agrochemicals, as well as the use of prey, such as Chironomidae. The research highlighted the importance of sustainable management strategies and the preservation of Odonata diversity, which are essential for the health of aquatic ecosystems. In addition, the use of water quality monitoring technologies was considered essential to optimize larval management.

Unveiling the functions of the Lim-domain binding protein MaPtaB in Metarhizium acridum.

The Lim-domain binding protein PtaB, a homolog of Mfg1, governs conidiation and biofilm formation in several fungi. PtaB includes a conserved Lim-binding domain and two predicted nuclear localization sequences at its C terminus, and is co-regulated with the transcription factor Som1 downstream of the cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase A (cAMP/PKA) pathway. However, the function of PtaB in entomopathogenic fungi remain poorly understood. Inactivation of PtaB in Metarhizium acridum resulted in delayed conidial germination, reduced conidial yield and increased sensitivities to cell wall disruptors, ultraviolet B irradiation and heat shock. In addition, the fungal virulence was significantly decreased after deletion of MaPtaB because of impairments in appressorium formation, cuticle penetration and evasion of insect immune responses in M. acridum. The MaPtaB-deletion and MaSom1-deletion strains showed similar phenotypes supporting that MaSom1/MaPtaB complex controls M. acridum normal conidiation and pathogenic progress. Upon loss of MaPtaB or MaSom1, the fungal sporulation mode in M. acridium shifted from microcycle conidiation to normal conidiation on SYA, a microcycle conidiation medium. Transcriptional analysis showed that more differentially expression genes were identified in MaSom1 RNA sequencing, and MaSom1 and MaPtaB may regulate the expression of genes for conidiation, nutrient metabolism and the cell cycle to control conidiation pattern shift. These data corroborate a complex control function for MaPtaB as an important central factor interacting with MaSom1 in the cAMP/PKA pathway, which links stress tolerance, conidiation and virulence in the entomopathogenic fungus M. acridum. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Molecular Identification and Scar Detection of Entomopathogenic Fungi of the Genus Beauveria

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in identifying and studying beneficial microorganisms that can be used in organic farming as fertilizers and plant protection agents. Entomopathogenic fungi with an endophytic nature of the genus Beauveria are quite promising and their identification and detection in the plant and soil samples are of great importance. Molecular identification of fungi of the genus Beauveria was conducted by sequencing the internal transcribed spacer 1 and 5.8S ribosomal RNA gene (ITS) regions with universal primers. As a result of the sequencing, it was found that the analysed strains belong to four genera of Beauveria with the following percentage distribution: B. bassiana (68.18%), B. pseudobassiana (13.64%), B. varroae (9.09%) and B. tenella (9.09%). The largest percentages of the strains were identified as B. bassiana. Sequence-characterized amplified regions (SCAR) have been applied for the detection of Beauveria strains in the field samples. The efficiency and ability of three pairs of SCAR markers to differentiate the studied strains were tested. The applied SCAR markers generated fragments with expected length in more than 90% of the investigated strains and could be used as markers for the detection of the fungi from the genus Beauveria in field samples. In the selected experimental conditions only B. varroe 501 and B. tenella 593 lack fragments with used SCAR markers.

Invisible Allies: The Role of Endophytic Entomopathogenic Microbes in Insect Pest Control

Endophytic entomopathogenic microbes, including both bacteria and fungi, hold significant promise as biocontrol agents in sustainable pest management. While the biocontrol potential of entomopathogens are well-established, their role as mutualistic endophytes within plant tissues offers a relatively new avenue for enhancing pest suppression. The ability of these microbes to colonize plant tissues allows them to serve as internal defense agents against insect pests, while simultaneously promoting plant health and resilience to environmental stressors. Here, we explore the growing body of knowledge surrounding the use of endophytic entomopathogenic bacteria and fungi in pest management. These microbes contribute to pest control through direct effects on insect populations, such as mortality and feeding inhibition, as well as indirect plant-mediated mechanisms that enhance plant defenses. Additionally, endophytic entomopathogens provide a range of benefits to their plant hosts, including growth promotion, nutrient acquisition, and protection against pathogens. Despite the clear advantages of using endophytic entomopathogens, there remain key challenges to their widespread implementation. Environmental factors can influence their persistence and efficacy in the field, and their relatively slow mode of action compared to chemical pesticides presents a hurdle for rapid adoption in commercial agriculture. Non-target effects and the development of effective formulations to ensure consistent colonization are also areas that require further investigation. Addressing these challenges through continued research into the complex interactions between endophytes, insects, plants, and their environments will be essential for advancing the integration of endophytic entomopathogenic microbes into sustainable pest management systems.

Isolation and identification of native Chilean entomopathogenic fungi and their potential for the control of Drosophila suzukii

Drosophila suzukii is an invasive pest of berries and other soft-skinned fruits, was first detected in Chile in 2017, and has since spread over 2,800 km from north to south. Sustainable control of the spotted-wing drosophila (SWD) is essential due the negative attitude of the consumers toward the excessive use of insecticides. During a survey in Chile for biological control agents, thirty-two isolates of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) were isolated from mycotized insects and soil samples, identified through sequence analysis, and tested against D. suzukii adults under laboratory conditions. The EPF identified are Akanthomyces muscarius, Beauveria bassiana, Beauveria pseudobassiana, Clonostachys rosea, Metarhizium alvesii, Metarhizium brunneum and Metarhizium robertsii. Six isolates caused 100 % of mortality of D. suzukii adults within ten days after the initial exposition to conidia; these included four B. bassiana isolates (LSB 110, LSB 114, LSB 122 and LSB 125), one M. robertsii isolate (LSB 115) and one M. brunneum isolate (LSB 127). LSB 122 and LSB 125 induced the shortest lethal time (LT50 4 and 4.2 days, respectively), while Akanthomyces and Clonostachys caused ≤36 % cumulative mortality of the adults at 10 days of exposure. These results indicate that isolates of B. bassiana, M. robertsii and M. brunneum have significant potential as microbial control agents against D. suzukii adults. This study marks a critical step forward in identifying and validating native entomopathogenic fungi in Chile for sustainable pest management. Future work will focus on further testing these isolates under laboratory, semi-field and field conditions to optimize their application in real-world agricultural settings.

Assessment of Lethal, Sublethal, Transgenerational, and Biochemical Effects of Isaria fumosorosea on Mythimna separata.

Mythimna separata is a destructive polyphagous pest of field crops. Insecticides are generally applied for its control which not only negatively affect natural enemies and the environment and cause resistance in the insect pests. There is a need for the friendly method which is safe for the environment and life. Currently, entomopathogenic fungi are being used as biological control agents for different insects. The influence of Isaria fumosorosea on survival, life table parameters, and enzymatic activities of M. separata were assessed. On the seventh day post-treatment, the highest concentration 3 × 108 spores/mL-1 caused the 92.5% larval mortality. The effect of LC15 and LC50 of I. fumosorosea were recorded on parental generation (F0) and first filial generation (F1) of M. separata. The life table parameters of F1 showed a decreasing trend in the intrinsic rate (r), net reproductive rate (Ro), mean generational time (T), total larval duration, and fecundity ratio in treated groups. In LC15 and LC50, groups the average fecundity ratio was 319.2 and 191.18 eggs/female, respectively. The activities of detoxifying enzymes were concentration-dependent and highest activities were recorded on the third day. I. fumosorosea negatively affected the growth parameters of M. separata and can be included in M. separata management program.

Whole-Genome Sequencing of the Entomopathogenic Fungus Fusarium solani KMZW-1 and Its Efficacy Against Bactrocera dorsalis.

Fusarium solani KMZW-1 is recognized for its potential as a biocontrol agent against agricultural and forestry pests, particularly due to its compatibility with integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. This study aimed to investigate the complete genome of F. solani KMZW-1 and assess its pathogenicity against Bactrocera dorsalis. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a genome size of 47,239,278 bp, comprising 27 contigs, with a GC content of 51.16% and fungus identified as F. solani KMZW-1. The genome completeness was assessed as 97.93% using BUSCO analysis, the DFVF sequence identifier was Fusarium 0G092560.1, and AntiSMASH analysis identified 35 gene clusters associated with secondary metabolite biosynthesis, providing insights into the genetic basis of its pathogenic mechanisms and biocontrol potential. Comparative genomic analysis found 269 unique genes for F. solani KMZW-1, and collinearity analysis exhibited a high degree of synteny with Fusarium solani-melongenae. The pathogenicity of F. solani KMZW-1 was assessed using concentrations ranging from 1 × 104 to 1 × 1011 conidia/mL. Higher concentrations (1 × 1010 to 1 × 1011 conidia/mL) resulted in significantly increased cumulative mortality rates of B. dorsalis adults compared to the control group. Notably, the pathogenicity was higher in male adults than in females. Probit analysis yielded LC50 (50% lethal concentration) values of 5.662 for female and 4.486 for male B. dorsalis adults. In summary, F. solani, KMZW-1 exhibits strong insecticidal activity against B. dorsalis and shows potential as a biocontrol agent with IPM strategies. These findings provide robust genomic evidence supporting the use of F. solani KMZW-1 in managing against B. dorsalis populations.

An iron-binding protein of entomopathogenic fungus suppresses the proliferation of host symbiotic bacteria

BackgroundEntomopathogenic fungal infection-induced dysbiosis of host microbiota offers a window into understanding the complex interactions between pathogenic fungi and host symbionts. Such insights are critical for enhancing the efficacy of mycoinsecticides. However, the utilization of these interactions in pest control remains largely unexplored.ResultsHere, we found that infection by the host-specialist fungus Metarhizium acridum alters the composition of the symbiotic microbiota and increases the dominance of some bacterial symbionts in locusts. Meanwhile, M. acridum also effectively limits the overgrowth of the predominant bacteria. Comparative transcriptomic screening revealed that the fungus upregulates the production of MaCFEM1, an iron-binding protein, in the presence of bacteria. This protein sequesters iron, thereby limiting its availability. Functionally, overexpression of MaCFEM1 in the fungus induces iron deprivation, which significantly suppresses bacterial growth. Conversely, MaCFEM1 knockout relieves the restriction on bacterial iron availability, resulting in iron reallocation. Upon ΔMaCFEM1 infection, some host bacterial symbionts proliferate uncontrollably, turning into opportunistic pathogens and significantly accelerating host death.ConclusionsThis study elucidates the critical role of pathogenic fungal-dominated iron allocation in mediating the shift of host microbes from symbiosis to pathogenicity. It also highlights a unique biocontrol strategy that jointly exploits pathogenic fungi and bacterial symbionts to increase host mortality.5MpJPM8R63G6GM1oNrbXUCVideo

Attract and kill: testing the potential of an entomopathogenic fungus to convert a trap crop into a dead-end trap crop against a soil-borne pest of vegetables

Attract and kill: testing the potential of an entomopathogenic fungus to convert a trap crop into a dead-end trap crop against a soil-borne pest of vegetables

Susceptibility of Aphis craccivora (Hemiptera: Aphididae) to three entomopathogenic Fusarium species

The black aphid (Aphis craccivora) is an insect pest that can cause significant losses to different agricultural crops. Entomopathogenic fungi can be good options for controlling this insect. Fusarium species have shown promising results in the biological control of several agricultural pests, mainly of the order Hemiptera. This study investigated the susceptibility of A. craccivora to 27 Fusarium isolates, distributed among F. sulawesiense (4), F. pernambucanum (6) and F. caatingaense (17). The viability of the conidia of all isolates was assessed by measuring their germination rate. Pathogenicity tests were conducted at 10⁷ conidia/mL, and the best-performing isolate was further tested at different concentrations (10⁴ to 10⁸ conidia/mL). Data were analyzed using ANOVA, Tukey's test at 5 %, and R for calculating lethal times (LT50,90) and lethal concentrations (LC50,90). All isolates had viable conidia with germination rates between 92.67 % and 100 %. Mortality rates ranged from 17.22 % to 90.23 %. F. pernambucanum URM 7559 had the shortest lethal times (LT50 of 2.24 days and LT90 of 4.42 days), followed by F. sulawesiense URM 7555 (LT50 of 2.35 days and LT90 of 4.77 days) and F. caatingaense with LT50 of 3.93 days for URM 6784 and LT90 of 8.27 days for URM 6807. The three Fusarium species tested, especially F. pernambucanum, showed promise in the biological control of A. craccivora. Although the results are promising, additional studies are needed to evaluate the safety, field efficacy and environmental impacts of Fusarium use, focusing on the interaction with the agricultural ecosystem and the risks to non-target organisms.

Multifaceted roles of NADPH oxidases in the growth and pathogenicity of Beauveria bassiana

ABSTRACT Reactive oxygen species (ROS), synthesized by the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (Nox) complex, are vital molecules in biological cells, influencing various physiological processes such as fungal growth, development, and virulence. Beauveria bassiana, an entomopathogenic fungus, is a promising biopesticide for agricultural, forestry, and urban pest control. This study focuses on the characterization of NADPH oxidases (Noxs) in B. bassiana. Gene expression profiles of Noxs in B. bassiana (BbNoxs) were analysed using RT-qPCR. Knockout strains of single BbNoxA, BbNoxB, BbNoxR, and double BbNoxA and BbNoxB were constructed via homologous recombination, and their phenotypic characteristics were examined. Fungal virulence was evaluated using Galleria mellonella larvae, and infection structures formation and penetration ability were assessed on cicada wings. ROS production and actin assembly during fungal growth and infection were detected using staining and marker methods. Expression analysis revealed significant upregulation of BbNoxs during fungal growth and infection. Compared to the wild-type strain, single knockouts (ΔBbNoxA/B/R) and double knockout (ΔBbNoxAB) of BbNoxs exhibited reduced conidial yields, accelerated conidial germination rates. Deletion of BbNoxB or BbNoxR decreased fungal virulence compared to the WT strain in topical inoculation experiments. Additionally, loss of BbNoxB or BbNoxR impaired infection structures formation, penetration ability, ROS production, and actin aggregation during fungal infection. BbNoxs are crucial for fungal growth, development, and virulence in B. bassiana, playing essential roles in infection structures formation, penetration, ROS production, and actin assembly. Understanding their functions provides insights into B. bassiana’s pathogenic mechanisms.

Residual effect of commonly used insecticides on key predatory mites released for biocontrol in strawberry.

Florida is the second largest producer of strawberries in the United States. However, the production system faces numerous challenges, especially Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) infestations. Management of this pest involves applying insecticides and use of predatory mites, particularly Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot, Neoseiulus cucumeris Oudemans, and Neoseiulus californicus McGregor (Mesostigmata: Phytoseiidae). Strawberry growers in Florida are concerned about the compatibility of the commercial formulations of insecticides used in strawberry pest management with predatory mites. This study assessed the residual effect of commercial insecticides used in strawberry production on the survival, feeding, and oviposition of the 3 predators. Using Munger cells, predators were exposed to commercial formulations of spinetoram, cyantraniliprole, azadirachtin + pyrethrin, Beauveria bassiana, Cordyceps javanica, capsicum, garlic, and canola oil extracts, and water control. There was a gradual decline in the survival and feeding of predatory mites when exposed to all insecticides. Spinetoram had the highest impact on the survival and feeding of all predators compared to other insecticides, while C. javanica had the lowest impact. Cyantraniliprole and azadirachtin + pyrethrin significantly reduced predator survival after 72h of exposure, whereas capsicum, garlic, and canola oil extracts caused a similar reduction after 96h. All predators consumed low proportions of S. dorsalis across all treatments. Oviposition was low in all treatments, with no discernable variation among treatments. These results highlight the potential of using entomopathogenic fungi in conjunction with A. swirskii, N. cucumeris, and N. californicus for the management of S. dorsalis and T. urticae in strawberries.

Conserved fungal effector NLS1 suppresses Lepidoptera insect immunity by targeting the host defense protein Hdd11.

Entomopathogenic fungi have been widely used as the main mycoinsecticide for controlling agricultural and forest pests. The effector molecules of these mycopathogens have evolved to adapt to their hosts. The role of fungal effectors in evading the host immune system in insects remains mainly unclear. We characterized the widely distributed fungal effector necrosis-inducing-like secreted protein 1 (NLS1) in the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium robertsii. Our findings revealed the presence of M. robertsii NLS1 (MrNLS1) in host hemocytes during the early stage of hemocoel infection. MrNLS1 knock down (ΔMrNLS1) reduced fungal pathogenicity during infection and altered the expression of host immune genes. The molecular docking results and the yeast 2-hybrid assay confirmed that MrNLS1 interacts with the host defense protein Hdd11. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that Hdd11 is conserved across a broad range of Lepidoptera species. Knock down of hdd11 in Helicoverpa armigera, Bombyx mori, and Galleria mellonella markedly suppressed their immune responses against M. robertsii. However, no significant difference was observed in the mean lethal time between hdd11-knockdown Lepidoptera species infected with ΔMrNLS1 and those infected with wild-type M. robertsii. Therefore, in Lepidoptera insects, Hdd11 is essential for fungal defense. In conclusion, M. robertsii infects Lepidoptera insects by targeting host Hdd11 through its protein MrNLS1, thereby suppressing the host immune response. Our findings clarify the molecular mechanisms underlying fungal infection pathogenesis.

In Vitro Assessment of Metarhizium Anisopliae Pathogenicity Against Aedes Aegypti Life Stages.

Aedes aegypti transmits the arboviruses that cause dengue, zika, and chikungunya. Entomopathogenic fungi are beneficial microorganisms that can be incorporated into current strategies against mosquitoes of public health concern. This study molecularly identified the Metarhizium anisopliae CG 153 isolate and evaluated its virulence against larvae, pupae, and adults (both males and females) of Ae. aegypti. Different concentrations of conidia were used (1 × 104-8 conidia mL-1). Larval and pupal survival was monitored daily for seven and three days, respectively, while adults were monitored for 15days. The efficacy of M. anisopliae sensu stricto was concentration-dependent, with higher concentrations achieving better results, demonstrating greater virulence against larval and adult stages of Ae. aegypti. The fungus reduced the larval survival by 95,5% (1 × 108 con.mL-1), 94,4% (1 × 107 con.mL-1), 78,9% (1 × 106 con.mL-1), 62,2% (1 × 105 con.mL-1), and 41,1% (1 × 104 con.mL-1) after seven days. Adults also showed susceptibility to the fungus, with no observed difference in susceptibility between males and females. Over 15days of monitoring, adult survival rates ranged from approximately 6.7% to 72%. Pupae exhibited lower susceptibility to the fungus across different concentrations, with survival rates ranging from approximately 87.8% to 100%. This study highlights the high effectiveness of M. anisopliae CG 153 against both Ae. aegypti larvae and adults (male and female) under controlled conditions, suggesting its promising potential for further evaluation and application in field conditions.

Identification of entomopathogenic fungi from insect pests of mango and their efficacy against mango hoppers

Surveys were made in the Sindhudurg and Ratnagiri districts of the Konkan region of Maharashtra, India during 2017-2018 for the collection of mummified insect samples from different mango orchards in order to isolate entomopathogenic fungi. The collected mummified insect samples were brought to the laboratory and incubated on PDA plates. Those samples showing growth on PDA plates were sub-cultured until pure fungus growth was obtained. They were tested for their pathogenicity in the laboratory and 14 samples were found pathogenic to mango hoppers. They were sent to NFCCI, Agarkar Research Institute, Pune for identification. Out of the 14 entomopathogenic samples identified, 7 were from Genus Fusarium, 4 were mixed cultures of Fusarium and Aspergillus, and one sample each from Genus Trichoderma, Mucor and Nigrospora. Studies showed that Fusarium species were the most common entomopathogenic fungi associated with mango pests, especially mango hoppers. Laboratory evaluation of these samples showed that amongst different isolated entomogenus fungi, <i>Fusarium semitectum</i> sample 16(1) was more pathogenic to mango hoppers than other fungal samples. Field evaluation of this sample also proved its efficacy.

Classification, biology and entomopathogenic fungi-based management and their mode of action against Drosophila species (Diptera: Drosophilidae): a review.

This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the classification, biology, and management of Drosophila species (Diptera: Drosophilidae) with a focus on entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) as a biocontrol strategy. Drosophila species, particularly Drosophila suzukii, and Drosophila melanogaster have emerged as significant pests in various agricultural systems, causing extensive damage to fruit crops. Understanding their taxonomic classification and biological traits is crucial for developing effective management strategies. This review delves into the life cycle, behavior, and ecological interactions of Drosophila species, highlighting the challenges posed by their rapid reproduction and adaptability. The review further explores the potential of EPF as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. The mode of action of EPF against Drosophila species is examined, including spore adhesion, germination, and penetration of the insect cuticle, leading to host death. Factors influencing the efficacy of EPF, such as environmental conditions, fungal virulence, and host specificity, are discussed in detail. By synthesizing current research, this review aims to provide valuable insights into the application of EPF and to identify future research directions for enhancing the effectiveness of EPF-based control measures against Drosophila species.

Exploration of three native strains of entomopathogenic fungi against rice yellow hairy caterpillar, <i>Psalis pennatula</i> (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae): An emerging pest of rainfed rice in Assam

Rice yellow hairy caterpillar Psalis pennatula Fabricius (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) is an emerging pest of rice and an increased incidence is expected in different rice-growing areas of Assam in the coming years. The caterpillar is a voracious leaf feeder and can consume the whole leaves within a day. Keeping this in view, an attempt was made to evaluate the bio-efficacy of three important native isolates of entomopathogenic fungal strains viz. Beauveria bassiana (KR855715), Cordyceps javanica (OM321438) and Isaria fumosorosea (MH414514) against P. pennatula larvae under laboratory conditions during the Sali season of rice. All three EPF strains at different conidial dilutions (1x103, 1x105,1x107, 1x108 and1x109 conidia/ml) were found to be pathogenic to the 3rd instar larvae of P. pennatula. Among the tested fungal strains, the strain Isaria fumosorosea (MH414514) showed the highest mortality (100%) at 1x107 conidia/ml and Cordyceps javanica (OM321438) showed the lowest mortality (51%) at 1x107conidia/ml at 10th day of post-treatment. The tested fungal isolates could play a vital role as microbial biopesticides in suppressing the P. pennatula population in Assam and could be incorporated into IPM strategies.

Environmental persistence of the conidia of native entomopathogenic fungi and their efficiency on Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann, 1824) (Diptera: Tephritidae)

This study aimed to investigate the effects of local Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin and Cordyceps fumosorosea (Wize) (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) isolates on Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann, 1824) (Diptera: Tephritidae) prepupae, during 2020 and 2021 in the Mediterranean Region of Türkiye. In petri dishes, mortality rates varied with doses: for LD.2016 (B. bassiana), between 30 and 60%, for M6-4 (B. bassiana), 30-46%, of IFR (C. fumosorosea), 65-100%. Additionally, differences were detected between the prepupa and pupa periods of the larvae depending on the isolate. In sterile soil studies, the IFR caused mortality rates of 53-93%, while those for the LD.2016 isolate were 20-55%., depending on the doses. In conidial survival studies, the IFR caused mortality rates of 70-93% at 0 months and 44-60% in the 12th month. The LD.2016 mortality was among 37-55% at 0 months, while mortality rates decreased to 2% in the 12th month. The reproductive capacity of adult individuals that emerged alive after infection was negatively affected depending on time and fungal isolate. In semi-controlled field conditions, the IFR isolate had mortality rates varied between 40 and 65%, and LD.2016 mortality rates varied between 34 and 62%, depending on doses. It was observed that the fungi used in the study had potential in biological control of C. capitata.

Biocontrol of Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley using entomopathogenic fungi and bacteria

IntroductionPhenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley, poses a significant threat to a range of crops worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of entomopathogenic fungi (Alternaria murispora and Alternaria destruens) and bacteria (Streptomyces bellus-E23-2) against adult females of P. solenopsis under laboratory (26 ± 2°C) and greenhouse conditions.MethodsLaboratory trials tested A. murispora, A. destruens (104–1010 conidia mL−1), and S. bellus E23-2 (104–1010 cfu mL−1), alone and in combination, recording mortality rates and LC50 values. Greenhouse trials tested the best lab treatments on infested potato plants, monitoring pest density and plant quality.Results and discussionIn laboratory trials, A. murispora at 1010 conidia mL−1 was the most effective, achieved 79.7% mortality (LC50 = 1.338 × 108 conidia mL−1 after 14 days). Combination treatments significantly enhanced efficacy, with A. murispora + S. bellus E23-2 (1010 conidia mL−1 + 1010 cfu mL−1) reaching 85.3% mortality. In greenhouse trials, the combination treatments notably reduced P. solenopsis densities and increased the number of infected mealybugs, with A. murispora + S. bellus E23-2 being the most effective. These treatments did not harm plant quality, unlike imidacloprid, which reduced visual quality despite its high efficacy. Alternaria murispora and S. bellus E23-2 effectively control P. solenopsis, providing a sustainable, plant-safe alternative to chemical insecticides.