Compatibility of entomopathogenic fungi and botanicals against sucking pests of okra: an ecofriendly approach

Abstract Background Okra, Abelmoschus esculentus (Linn.) Moench, is one of the most important traditional vegetables in India. The crop attacked severely by sucking pests, viz., jassid, Amrasca biguttula Ishida, and whitefly, Bemisia tabaci Genn., throughout its growth period. To control these different entomopathogenic fungi (EPF), Beauveria bassiana , Metarhizium anisopliae Lecanicillium lecanii were tested alone their 1:1 combinations with neem oil against pests compared to Imidacloprid 17.8% SL as chemical under field conditions during 2018 2019. Results Among EPF tested, lowest jassid (1.16, 1.27 leaf -1 ) whitefly (1.33, 0.84 population was recorded plots treated L. two consecutive years. Combination at half recommended concentrations had among all treatments maximum reduction over par control, i.e., 17.8 0.33 ml l ?1 . Moreover, biopesticides found relatively safe polyphagous predators ( Micraspis discolor Menochilus sexmaculatus spiders) untreated control. In contrast, toxic numbers spiders ladybird beetles. Conclusion like B. M. could be a viable ecofriendly option management okra, along conservation natural enemies.