Increased mortality of the European pepper moth Duponchelia fovealis (Lepidoptera:Crambidae) using entomopathogenic fungal consortia.

The European pepper moth (Duponchelia fovealis) is an invasive pest affecting crops in many countries. The use of chemicals to control D. fovealis is not only ineffective but is hazardous to the environment. The most effective way to reduce this invasive species is biological control using entomopathogenic fungi. Furthermore, the use of combining entomopathogenic fungi is a novel and underexplored approach in the field of biocontrol research. The compatibility of different strains of Beauveria bassiana, Purpureocillium lilacinum, and Isaria javanica was evaluated by forming two-fungi consortia. The pathogenicity of these consortia against D. fovealis, as well as the related enzymatic activities, were investigated. Seven consortia increased D. fovealis mortality, showing synergistic activity. One consortium formed by two strains of B. bassiana produced highest control. Moreover, these consortia also demonstrated increased chitinase and lipase activities. Higher mortality of D. fovealis by these consortia was mainly associated with enzyme production. One consortium, also formed by two strains of B. bassiana, was unique in producing lower D. fovealis mortality than the two strains alone. The potential use of entomopathogenic fungal consortia is a promising alternative approach for biological control. Most of the consortia used in this study improved control of D. fovealis, showed synergistic activity and could be a suitable strategy to control this pest.