Entomopathogenic fungus, Lecanicillium lecanii R. Z are & W. Gams anchored into MCM-41: A new and effective bio-insecticide against Brevicoryne brassicae (Linnaeus, 1758) (Hom: Aphididae) to protect cabbages

Abstract

<p class="Default"><em>Brevicoryne brassicae</em> is a significant pest of cultivated cabbages and vegetable crops in the world. The present study was carried out to examine a potential strategy to enhance the insecticidal activity of <em>Lecanicillium lecanii</em> for cost-effective management of <em>B. brassicae</em>. The insecticidal efficacy of pure entomopathogenic fungus (PEF) and MCM-41 (Mobil Composition of Matter)<em> L. lecanii</em> were assessed against the cabbage aphid under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. The fungus was supported on MCM-41 and was completely characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) techniques. LC50 values of PEF and MCM-41@fungus were 1.9×106 and 2.5×104 and 2.0×107 and 2.0×105 conidia/ml on adults of <em>B. brassicae</em> under laboratory and greenhouse conditions, respectively. Bioassays demonstrated that MCM-41@fungus significantly decreased LC50 values of entomopathogenic fungus and it was more toxic than <em>L. lecanii</em> at adult stage of the pest. The results showed that pure <em>L. lecanii</em> and its nano-formulation could play key roles as bio-pesticides in <em>B. brassicae</em> management programs.</p>