Management of the grape mealy bug, Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green), using entomopathogenic fungi and botanical oils: a laboratory study

Abstract Background Laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate the bio-efficacy and cumulative effect of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF), viz., Lecanicillium lecanii (Zimmermann) Zare Gams, Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin different botanical oils against grape mealy bug, Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) . M. infestation during berry formation has left no option other than chemical management. However, pesticide application this stage leads residues. Thus, safer sustainable biological need was tested for their effectiveness Results Dipping bioassay technique used determine mortality. When L. as sole (at 6 4 g/l), significant mortality observed (51.63 50.18%). maximum nymphal achieved when combination EPF formulations used, i.e., 57.64% with B. + (6 g/l g/l). Their at par same but minimal concentration, (56.29%). Concerning evaluated, neem oil 15 ml/l a higher 81.36%. Consecutive effective treatment pongamia 10 ml/l) 79.65% standard dosage IIHR soap g/l) also recorded 78.09 77.67%, respectively. compared, found significantly superior in compatible oil. Conclusions (sole bioagents) proved better management an efficacy 90.21 96.67 % mortality, respectively control (more 97%).