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Metarhizium anisopliae

Metarhizium anisopliae, and the closely related M. majus, are entomopathogenic fungi known collectively as the green muscardine fungus (GMF). They are used as biopesticides against soil-dwelling beetle grubs, most notably the coconut rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros), and against white grubs in sugarcane and groundnut.

Composition

  • Active organism: Metarhizium anisopliae / M. majus (Hyphomycete fungi)
  • Reference strain bank: ICAR-NBAIR, Bengaluru
  • Commercial formulation: wettable powder (WP), oil dispersion (OD), or pellet, with minimum 1 x 10^8 CFU per gram
  • Trade designation: marketed as "Green Muscardine Fungus" (GMF) by ICAR-CPCRI and licensees

The ICAR-CPCRI Regional Station has developed and commercialised the principal Indian GMF formulation for management of Oryctes rhinoceros. Recent taxonomic work indicates that M. majus is the most effective species against the coconut rhinoceros beetle.

Mode of action

Conidia adhere to the cuticle of beetle larvae and adults, germinate, and penetrate the integument enzymatically. Once inside the haemocoel, hyphal bodies multiply and produce destruxins that kill the host. Cadavers turn into characteristic green-mummified mycelial masses that release new conidia, providing residual control in the breeding substrate. Grub mortality typically begins within seven to ten days of application.

Target use and dose

Used primarily in the management of Oryctes rhinoceros in coconut and oil palm. The formulation is mixed with water and sprinkled on beetle breeding sites: decaying coconut logs, fresh and old farmyard manure heaps, sawdust piles and palm-stump cavities. Recommended dose follows the CPCRI bulletin and ranges from 5 x 10^11 to 5 x 10^12 conidia per cubic metre of breeding substrate. Repeat applications every 60-90 days are needed in active breeding sites.

Safety and regulatory status

Registered under the Insecticides Act through CIB&RC; non-pathogenic to humans, mammals, fish and beneficial insects. Safe up to the day of harvest with no fixed PHI. Should not be tank-mixed with broad-spectrum fungicides that kill spores.

See also: Beauveria Bassiana, Verticillium Lecanii, Trichoderma Viride, Pseudomonas Fluorescens.

References

  1. Rhinoceros Beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros L.) and its Biocontrol Agents. ICAR-CPCRI.
  2. Eco-friendly Management of Coconut Pests. ICAR Indian Council of Agricultural Research.