Why Is Beauveria bassiana a Key Biological Control Agent Against Insect Pests?
Technical Introduction
Beauveria bassiana is a naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus that infects and kills a wide range of insect pests.
It invades insect hosts by penetrating their cuticle, proliferating inside the body, and eventually causing death.
Widely used in sustainable agriculture, B. bassiana offers an eco-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides.
Applications
1. Agricultural Pest Control
Controls pests such as aphids, whiteflies, thrips, beetles, caterpillars, and locusts on crops including vegetables, fruits, and ornamentals.
Reduces chemical pesticide usage and minimizes environmental impact.
2. Forestry and Urban Pest Management
Used against forest pests and urban insects like termites and mosquitoes.
3. Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Compatible with other biological agents and selective pesticides, supporting sustainable pest control strategies.
Advantages
Broad Host Range: Effective against many insect species.
Environmentally Safe: Non-toxic to humans, animals, and beneficial insects.
Self-Propagating: Can establish and persist in the environment for long-term control.
Easy Application: Available as powders, granules, and liquid formulations for sprays or soil treatment.
Typical Parameters
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Organism | Beauveria bassiana |
| Form | Conidia in formulated products |
| Viable Spore Count | ≥1 × 10⁷ CFU/g (typical in powders) |
| Appearance | White to off-white powder |
| Storage | Store in cool, dry conditions |
| Shelf Life | 6–12 months depending on formulation |
FAQs
Q1: How is B. bassiana applied?
A1: Via foliar sprays, soil application, or seed treatments depending on target pest.
Q2: Is B. bassiana safe for beneficial insects like bees?
A2: Generally safe, but timing and application methods should minimize exposure to pollinators.
Q3: How quickly does B. bassiana kill insect pests?
A3: Mortality typically occurs within 5–14 days post-infection.
Q4: Can B. bassiana be combined with chemical pesticides?
A4: Some selective pesticides are compatible; always check for compatibility to avoid fungal inhibition.
Q5: Does environmental condition affect efficacy?
A5: Yes, humidity and temperature influence fungal germination and infection rates; optimal conditions improve control.
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