The occurrence of entomopathogenic fungi in apple orchards and their biocontrol potential against Eriosoma lanigerum

Eriosoma lanigerum (Hausmann) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), woolly apple aphid (WAA) is an important pest on apples globally and a key of production in South Africa. The has developed some level resistance against several chemical insecticides. Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) have been identified as promising biological control agents wide array insect pests. main aim this study was to conduct survey local orchards the Western Cape province for EPF use isolates test susceptibility WAA under optimum laboratory conditions. Soil samples were collected from EPF, baited isolated using larvae Galleria mellonella Tenebrio molitor. Six species: Beauveria bassiana, Cordyceps fumosorosea, Metarhizium brunneum, M. pinghaense, robertsii Purpureocillium lilacinum soil samples. results bioassays showed that pinghaense most effective with average percentage mortality > 90%. brunneum also proved be when used 80%, while B. bassiana C. fumosorosea least 52% 48%, respectively. LT50 LT90 (2.12; 4.19) (2.05; 4.45) require similar time days E. lanigerum. obtained provided insight into diversity species across shown efficacy potential WAA.