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Exploiting the Efficacy of Entomopathogenic Fungi Against Common Floricultural Pests: A Focus on Aphids (Myzus persicae), Whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci) and Western Flower Thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis)
Praveen Ranadev * 1, Nagaraju K2 , Vasantha Kumari R3
1- Research Associate and Quality control. Center for Natural Biological Resources and Community Development (CNBRCD), Bangalore - 560024 , ppranadev.11@gmail.com
2- Professor and Head, Department of Agricultural Microbiology, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065
3- Professor, Department of Horticulture, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065
Abstract:   (268 Views)
This study evaluated the efficacy of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) as biocontrol agents against aphids, whiteflies and western flower thrips. The research employed a leaf disc bioassay with various conidia concentrations to determine lethal concentration (LC) and time (LT) for pest eradication. Additionally, the study assessed the activity of cuticle-degrading enzymes produced by EPF (Chitinase, Protease, and Lipase) to understand their pathogenic mechanisms. Molecular identification using ITS region of 18S rDNA identified virulent isolates. Results indicated that four isolates, ENPF-16, 24, 41, and 60, achieved significant mortality rates (95% to 100%) at a concentration of 1x108 conidia/mL after nine days. Akanthomyces sp. (ENPF-41) exhibited the highest enzyme activity, followed by Beauveria sp. (ENPF-60). The virulent fungal isolates were identified as Beauveria bassiana and Akanthomyces lecanii. Among EPFs, Akanthomyces lecanii (MT997935) displayed greater virulence against all three test insects with lower LC50 and LT50 values compared to other EPFs. In summary, all fungal isolates induced mortality in the tested pests, but their effectiveness varied. Akanthomyces lecanii (MT997935) emerged as a promising biocontrol candidate due to its broad host range and strong virulence.
 
Keywords: Sucking pests, Lecanicillium, Beauveria, Chitinase, Cuticle degrading enzymes, Lethal concentration, Biological control
Full-Text [PDF 989 kb]   (184 Downloads)    
Article Type: Original Research | Subject: Ecology and Biological Control
Received: 2023/11/7 | Accepted: 2024/01/1
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