Entomopathogenic fungi (Aspergillus oryzae) as biological control agent of cattle ticks in Tanzania

Ticks are the most important ectoparasites that responsible for severe economic losses in livestock industry. The use of chemical acaricides is common method used to control ticks livestock. This study was conducted determine efficacy Aspergillus oryzae as an alternative biological agent controlling enhance productivity. A. at different concentrations evaluated against larvae and adults hard tick genera Rhipicephalus, Boophilus, Amblyomma using immersion test under laboratory conditions. Field trials were two purposively selected cattle herds Monduli district, northern Tanzania. a concentration 1 × 106 conidial/ml sprayed on all tick-infested areas. results demonstrated concentration-related increase mortality both adult female engorged ticks. mean statistically significant p ? 0.05 0.001, respectively. Egg production found decrease with increased concentration. Additionally, there difference egg index oviposition reduction (p = 0.009) while no hatching product effectiveness 0.089 0.004, respectively between tested ticks’ genera. Under field conditions, bio-acaricide treated cattle. concludes has good acaricidal activity hence, one potential methods sustainable schemes. Key words: oryzae, bio-acaricide, entomopathogenic fungi, cattle, ticks,