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The Last of Them: Entomopathogenic Effect of Akanthomyces muscarius on the Scale Insect Pest Toumeyella parvicornis Under Laboratory Conditions, a Potential Biological Control Candidate

Summary

Scientists tested a fungus called Akanthomyces muscarius as a natural way to control an invasive pest called the tortoise scale insect that damages stone pine trees in Europe. In laboratory experiments, the fungus effectively infected and killed these insects, showing much better results than commercial fungal products. This research suggests the fungus could be used as an environmentally-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides for protecting pine trees in urban areas.

Background

Toumeyella parvicornis is an invasive scale insect pest rapidly spreading in Europe, causing significant damage to stone pine trees primarily in urban areas. Traditional control methods are limited by environmental concerns and high costs. Akanthomyces muscarius is an entomopathogenic fungus previously isolated from related scale insect species with demonstrated biocontrol potential.

Objective

This study investigates the pathogenicity and biocontrol potential of Akanthomyces muscarius isolate NOC1 against Toumeyella parvicornis under laboratory conditions and compares its efficacy with commercial fungal formulations. The research aims to develop sustainable biological control strategies for this invasive pest.

Results

A. muscarius NOC1 showed superior pathogenicity with 94.8% colonization and 100% mortality of treated adult females compared to Mycotal formulation. Optimal conidial concentration was 10^7-10^8 conidia/mL, achieving complete mycelium coverage within 4-5 days and rapid host death. The isolate demonstrated significantly better performance than commercial formulations on both adult females and nymphs.

Conclusion

Akanthomyces muscarius NOC1 represents a promising biological control candidate for T. parvicornis, demonstrating high pathogenicity and colonization rates under laboratory conditions. Further field trials and investigations into endophytic potential are recommended to develop practical biocontrol strategies for this invasive pest.
  • Published in:Physiologia Plantarum,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.1111/ppl.70533, PMID: 40974186
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