Development of Biopesticides for Grasshopper and Locust Control in Sub-Saharan Africa
PI(s): Mullins, Donald E, Agblevor, Foster A, Vaughan, Larry J
Investigators: Gabbert, Sandra
Abstract: A major problem encountered in development of biopesticides is protection of the agents from desiccation and ultraviolet light. Collaborative work among several VA Tech faculty has focused on development of efficient production and formulation of microbial biopesticides for use in locust control in Africa. We have been successful in coating spores of an entomopathogenic fungi which improves their viability during exposure to UV-B radiation and dry heat conditions characteristic of the African climate. This technology may be developed for protection of a variety of entomopathogenic organisms which might be utilized in insect pest control.
Description:
A major problem that must be overcome before the use of
microbial natural control agents (as biopesticides) becomes practical, is
development of a means for protection from desiccation and ultraviolet
radiation. A major effort has focused on coating the pathogenic fungal spores
of Metarhizium anisopliae var. acridum to enhance their
viability under exposure to UV-B radiation and extreme dry heat characteristic
of the African climate. Results from our experiments indicate that the
viability of the coated spores can be increased 16 fold. A patent for the
coating process is under review by VA Tech Intellectual Properties [Chen,
Agblevor (BSE) and Vaughan (International Programs)]. We are now optimizing
the process, and have designed and constructed equipment for scaling up
production for field testing. We currently have some support to develop
this technology for field trials to be conducted in West Africa, and are
seeking funding to develop other applications for this technology.
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Disciplines: Pathology, Pesticides
Audiences: Researchers
