Eucalyptus forests, covering over 20 million hectares worldwide, are threatened by the Gonipterus platensis, or Eucalyptus snout beetle, which can trigger total defoliation and significant wood volume losses. In the Iberian Peninsula, this beetle positions a substantial threat. While Eucalyptus wood is important for paper pulp, present biocontrol techniques are not totally reliable, in some cases needing chemical interventions.
The Eucalyptus snout beetle substantially impacts Eucalyptus forest plantations internationally. The typical control approach includes the micro wasp Anaphes spp, however it might be more cost-efficient. To resolve this concern, researchers looked for naturally taking place pathogenic fungis as an alternative option to manage the Eucalyptus snout beetle.
In a brand-new research study, scientists determined fungis that are natural opponents of the Eucalyptus snout beetle. Especially, these fungis were gathered from contaminated beetles in their natural environment in Colombia. This adjustment to regional conditions makes these fungis appealing prospects for managing the beetle in forest plantations.
To guarantee the viability of the recuperated fungis for establishing a bio-pesticide, researchers carried out comprehensive characterizations. They evaluated insecticidal activity, UV-B radiation tolerance, and other elements. This characterization procedure guarantees that the fungis appropriate for massive production and resistant to ecological conditions when utilized in forest plantations.
Amongst the fungis studied, Beauveria pseudobassiana and Metarhizium brunneum revealed the greatest virulence. B. pseudobassiana was appropriate for bio-pesticide production and showed tolerance to evaluated ecological conditions.
The recognized fungis have the capacity for establishing a bio-pesticide, pending trials in Eucalyptus forests. The scientists are looking for brand-new financing for this essential stage. When effective, these fungis might be used in other areas dealing with substantial damage from the Eucalyptus snout beetle.
Journal Reference:
- MEJÍA, CINDY, GLORIA BARRERA, JOHN ALEXANDER PULGARÍN DÍAZ, CARLOS ESPINEL. 2024. The Eucalyptus snout beetle in Colombia: choice and examination of entomopathogenic fungis as bioinsecticides versus Gonipterus platensis. Biological Control: 105407. DOI: 10.1016/ j.biocontrol.2023.105407