Integrating entomopathogenic nematodes and microbes for eco-friendly management of brinjal ash weevils, Myllocerus subfasciatus Guerin (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Abstract

Ash weevils (Myllocerus subfasciatus, M. viridanus, M. discolor) are economically important pests of brinjal in India. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) from the families Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae have emerged as promising alternatives to toxic chemical pesticides and effective against a spectrum of economically important pests. Hence, studies were conducted to evaluate native strains of EPN viz., Heterorhabditis indica, Steinernema carpocapsae and S. glaseri against ash weevils, Myllocerus subfasciatus in brinjal under field conditions. EPN were tested individually and in combination with microbial biopesticides viz., Bacillus subtilis and Beauveria bassiana. Among the EPN species, H. indica recorded the maximum mortality of 65.13% followed by S. glaseri (56.1%) and S. carpocapsae (42.3%). When integrated with microbial bioagents, H. indica in combination with B. subtilis recorded maximum mortality of 69.47% grub mortality and 76% reduction in leaf damage due to ash weevils. Thus the study proves the antagonistic potential of EPN and its compatibility with other microbial biopesticides widening its scope as an excellent component in IPM of brinjal.