Entomopathogenicity Potentials of Molds Isolated from Soil and Plant Debris on Comparative Mortality of Bean Weevil (Acanthoscelides Obtectus)

Entomopathogenic fungi, with their eco-friendly nature, have emerged as promising biocontrol agents for pest management. This study explores the entomopathogenic potential of various isolates, including Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Rhizomucor spp., Fusarium spp., and Aspergillus terreus, obtained from soil and plant debris. Confirming their entomopathogenic properties through morphological characteristics, the study aligns with previous research findings on Fusarium spp. and Aspergillus sp. isolation from diverse sources. In entomopathogenic assays against the Beans Weevil, all tested isolates exhibited efficacy, with Rhizomucor spp. demonstrating rapid and sustained mortality rates, reaching 100% within the initial day. Fusarium spp. displayed a cumulative impact, reaching full efficacy by the fourth day. Aspergillus terreus and Aspergillus flavus exhibited robust potential, achieving 100% mortality by the fourth day, while Aspergillus niger displayed slightly delayed onset but reached full efficacy by the third day. These results parallel findings on the effectiveness of Aspergillus species against various insects. Comparative analysis against conventional insecticides revealed entomopathogenic fungi’s superior efficacy, with faster mortality rates than different concentrations of the insecticide. The water control group exhibited a gradual weevil mortality rate, emphasizing the natural course of mortality. The insecticide treatments, even at lower concentrations, consistently outperformed the water control group, highlighting the nuanced relationship between insecticide concentration and efficacy.