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Enzymatic, cellular breakdown and lysis in treatment of Beauveria brongniartii on Spodoptera litura (Fabricius, 1775)

Summary

Scientists tested a natural fungus called Beauveria brongniartii as a pest control solution for tobacco cutworms (Spodoptera litura), which damage crops. The fungus was highly effective at killing the pest at all life stages, with 98% success against eggs and 96% against larvae. Importantly, the fungus was safe for earthworms and other non-target organisms, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides that harm beneficial species and the soil.

Background

Spodoptera litura is a highly destructive polyphagous pest affecting various crops including maize, cotton, soybean, and vegetables, causing significant economic losses. Chemical control methods commonly used against this pest lead to resistance, environmental contamination, and harm to non-target organisms. Entomopathogenic fungi such as Beauveria brongniartii offer a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides for pest management.

Objective

This study aimed to isolate and identify Beauveria brongniartii conidia from forest soils and evaluate its effectiveness against eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults of Spodoptera litura. The research also assessed the impact on non-target earthworms (Eudrilus eugeniae) and investigated the enzymatic and cellular mechanisms of fungal pathogenicity.

Results

At the highest concentration (2.7 × 10⁹ conidia/mL), B. brongniartii achieved 98.66% mortality in eggs, 96% in larvae, 90.66% in adults, and 77.33% in pupae after 12 days. The fungus induced cellular breakdown and lysis by producing enzymes that degrade cuticles and cell membranes. Biochemical analysis revealed reduced ACP and ALP activity, increased lipid peroxides and SOD, while earthworms showed no significant toxicity from fungal treatment compared to 96% mortality from chemical pesticides.

Conclusion

Beauveria brongniartii demonstrates high effectiveness as a biocontrol agent against S. litura across all developmental stages, with particular efficacy against eggs and larvae. The fungus exhibits minimal impact on non-target species like earthworms, making it a viable eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. These findings support the integration of B. brongniartii into sustainable pest management strategies with no environmental risk.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40021686, DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-78151-6
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