Monchan Maketon

Greenhouse evaluation of Bacillus subtilis AP-01 and Trichoderma harzianum AP-001 in controlling tobacco diseases

Two biological control agents, Bacillus subtilis AP-01 (LarminarTM) and Trichoderma harzianum AP-001 (TrisanTM) alone or/in combination were investigated in controlling three tobacco diseases, including bacterial wilt (Ralstonia solanacearum), damping-off (Pythium aphanidermatum), and frogeye leaf spot (Cercospora nicotiana). Tests were performed in greenhouse by soil sterilization prior to inoculation of the pathogens. Bacterial-wilt and damping off pathogens were drenched first and followed with the biological control agents and for comparison purposes, two chemical fungicides. But for frogeye leaf spot, which is an airborne fungus, a spraying procedure for every treatment including a chemical fungicide was applied instead of drenching. Results showed that neither B. subtilis AP-01 nor T. harzianum AP-001 alone could control the bacterial wilt, but when combined, their controlling capabilities were as effective as a chemical treatment. These results were also similar for damping-off disease when used in combination. In addition, the combined B. subtilis AP-01 and T. harzianum AP-001 resulted in a good frogeye leaf spot control, which was not significantly different from the chemical treatment.

Note: Field evaluation ofIsaria fumosorosea in controlling the diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) in Chinese kale

Twelve entomopathogenic fungi were screened for controlling diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella L.) eggs and larvae in the laboratory. None had any significant ovicidal effect.Isaria fumosorosea CKPF-095 showed the best efficacy in controlling the 2nd instar larvae. It was formulated into a wettable powder at a concentration of 1 × 109 conidia g−1 and used in two field tests. Both tests revealed thatI. fumosorosea CKPF-095 at 1.25 × 1013 ha−1 showed as good efficacy as Dipel at 1 × 1011 IU ha−1.