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Toxicity Assay and Pathogenic Process Analysis of Clonostachys rogersoniana Infecting Cephalcia chuxiongica

Summary

A destructive pine forest pest called Cephalcia chuxiongica causes significant damage to forests in China. Researchers discovered that a fungus called Clonostachys rogersoniana can effectively kill this pest by uniquely infecting it through breathing holes called spiracles. This fungus-based biological control offers an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides, potentially protecting China’s forests while reducing chemical pollution.

Background

Cephalcia chuxiongica is a major pine forest pest in China causing significant economic damage. Chemical pesticide control has led to pest resistance and environmental contamination. Entomopathogenic fungi represent a promising biological control alternative for managing this destructive insect pest.

Objective

To isolate and characterize entomopathogenic fungi from naturally diseased Cephalcia chuxiongica larvae and evaluate their pathogenic capacity and infection mechanisms for potential biological control applications.

Results

Clonostachys rogersoniana was identified as the highly virulent pathogenic strain. The optimal growth medium was PPDA with colony diameter of 83.62 mm and sporulation of 19.07 × 10⁶ conidia/cm². LT50 was 24.34 hours and LC50 was 2.35 × 10⁵ conidia/mL. The fungus uniquely invaded Ce. chuxiongica through spiracles rather than typical infection routes.

Conclusion

Clonostachys rogersoniana demonstrates potent and rapid pathogenicity against Ce. chuxiongica larvae, making it a promising biological control agent. The rare spiracle-entry infection mechanism enhances its pathogenic efficiency. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for developing novel pest management strategies for this agricultural pest.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.3390/microorganisms13040709, PMID: 40284545
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