Field Efficacy of Proteolytic Entomopathogenic Fungi against Ceratovacuna lanigera Zehntner

Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) are regarded as viable alternatives to insect pest control chemicals that contain a large amount of protease enzyme, which degrades the proteinaceous substances in cuticles. The aim this study was evaluate field efficacy protease-producing EPF against Ceratovacuna lanigera, and assess persistence on sugarcane leaves. A total 10 isolates were cultured from different agricultural soils, identified Purpureocillium lilacinum basis morphological features molecular data, using ITS 1-5.8 S-ITS 2 rDNA sequences. proteolytic activity assessed expressed an Enzyme Index (EI). Three (PLTP5, PLPS8, PLMC11) found be best enzyme producers among isolates, presenting EI values > 2.0 at 24 h, 48 72 h during incubation. These three also gave results terms lethal concentrations (LC50 LC90) time (LT50 LT90) values, based laboratory virulence evaluation, therefore selected for application; commercial B. bassiana (GHA) applied standard treatment. An oil-based formulation conidia (1 × 108 mL−1) experiment, with interval days four times. revealed P. (PLTP5) showed highest reduction C. lanigera population, 28.75, 56.02, 67.42, 77.21%, respectively, after first, second, third, fourth spraying. leaves assessed. Per cent reductions 36.94–45.23%, 69.36–80.15%, 81.75–92.96%, three, six, nine application. application impact yield component sugar content evaluated. increase, 18.15, 17.83, 15.07, 11.88, 23.73, 19.38%, leaf length, width, cane height, girth, weight, (brix). Our indicated most effective conditions, activity. Consequently, considered essential factor regulating lanigera. Protease would useful, therefore, eco-friendly alternative chemical pesticides, sustainable management