Synergistic effect of entomopathogens against Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) under laboratory and greenhouse conditions

Abstract Background Entomopathogens such as nematodes, bacteria and fungi are well recognized for their biocontrol potential. This study was carried out to examine the insecticidal properties of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora Poinar, Beauveria bassiana Balsamo-Crivelli, Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner, individually in combination against 3rd instar larvae Spodoptera litura Fabricius (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) under controlled laboratory greenhouse conditions at Eternal University, Baru Sahib, Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh. Results The results demonstrated that combined applications tested entomopathogens resulted 100% insect mortality conditions. Among individual concentrations, 200 IJs/ml were noticed highly virulent with (98%) mortality, followed by B. (96%) then (92%). However, single treatments also evaluated further showed a highest target pest H. , thuringiensis. plus (200 IJs + 1 × 10 12 CFU/cm 2 ) more effective caused (100%) (28%) than conidia/cm (34%) damage both, Conclusion Laboratory bioassay evaluation tests sprayed reliable fast synergism. could be recommended farmers control pest.