Laboratory evaluation of Aschersonia aleyrodis (Webber) against citrus blackfly, Aleurocanthus woglumi (Ashby) and whitefly, Dialeurodes citri (Ashmead)

Red whitefly fungus, Aschersonia aleyrodis (Webber) is a fungal pathogen of nymphs of blackfly, Aleurocanthus woglumi (Ashby) and whitefly, Dialeurodes citri (Ashmead) on the citrus plant. It is used as a promising biological control agent. In the present study, attempts have been made to check the efficacy of A. aleyrodis biopesticides for the management of citrus blackfly and whitefly under laboratory condition. Probit analysis for LC50 values of 2nd instar nymph was calculated 1.1 x 108 spore/ml and 1.8 x 107 spore/ml and LT50 values, 8.14 to 13.77 days and 6.88 to 9.72 days were derived for 2nd instar nymph of citrus blackfly and whitefly at respective concentration. Cross infectivity was found non-pathogenic to citrus aphids and mealybugs. Among the insecticides, Dimethoate 30 % EC was observed compatible with A. aleyrodis as it shows less inhibition at the half and recommended dose of insecticide.