Research Topic: entomopathogenic fungi

Isolation, Identification, Biological Characterization, and Pathogenicity of Entomopathogenic Fungus from the Larvae of the Evergestis extimalis (Scopoli) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

Researchers discovered a naturally occurring fungus called Mucor hiemalis that can kill Evergestis extimalis, a pest that damages rapeseed crops. They identified optimal growing conditions for this fungus and tested its effectiveness against different life stages of the pest. The fungus proved highly effective, especially against younger larvae, offering a promising natural alternative to chemical pesticides for crop protection.

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Advances in submerged liquid fermentation and formulation of entomopathogenic fungi

This paper reviews how scientists are improving the production of natural fungal pesticides that kill insect pests. Instead of growing fungi on grains in bags, researchers are using large fermentation tanks similar to those used in food and beverage production. These tanks can produce beneficial fungal cells more quickly and efficiently, with better quality control and safety. The paper discusses different types of fungal cells produced, how to make them stable for storage and field use, and how this technology could replace older production methods worldwide.

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A novel mitovirus associated with the fungal entomopathogen Zoophthora radicans

Researchers used advanced sequencing techniques to study viruses in wild pea aphids and discovered a new virus that infects a fungus that naturally kills aphids. By analyzing genetic material from field-collected aphids, they identified this virus is specifically associated with the fungus Zoophthora radicans. This discovery helps us better understand the hidden microbial world of natural insect populations and could potentially be useful for developing natural pest control methods.

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Multi-locus molecular phylogenetic analysis reveals four new species and a new record of Ophiocordyceps (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) on dipteran hosts in Thailand

Researchers studying fungi in Thai forests discovered four previously unknown species of Ophiocordyceps that parasitise different types of flies. Using DNA analysis combined with microscopic examination, scientists confirmed these fungi are distinct species, each specialising on particular fly types like houseflies, fruit flies, and robber flies. This research expands our understanding of the remarkable diversity of fungi that naturally control insect populations, which could have implications for biological pest control.

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

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.

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