The diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) poses a significant threat to agriculture, specifically targeting the Brassicaceae family, which includes cabbages. PRIMA Agro Tech has developed a biocontrol approach to address this pest, utilising Bacillus thuringiensis and Serratia marcescens. This strategy is tailored to combat the diamondback moth effectively while minimising environmental impacts, providing a sustainable solution for maintaining the health and productivity of cabbage crops.
The diamondback moth is monophagous, meaning it exclusively attacks members of the cabbage family. The most critical phase for control is during the worm formation or when the adult moths (imago) start to appear. The worms create holes in the cabbage leaves, where they eat and hide.
An effective spraying technique focuses on targeting these formed worms. The cabbage leaves can be so extensively damaged at high infestation levels that only the skeletal structure remains, leading to leaf rot and eventual plant death. Such severe damage reduces the yield and can destroy the crop.
PRIMA Agro Tech employs two specific biocontrol microorganisms to manage diamondback moth infestations:
Bacillus thuringiensis strain 4042: This bacterium is renowned for its insecticidal properties, particularly effective against caterpillars like the diamondback moth. It produces toxins (Cry proteins) that when ingested by the larvae, bind to receptors in their gut lining, disrupting their digestive process and leading to death. This strain is specifically targeted, ensuring it affects only harmful pests while being safe for beneficial insects and the environment.
Serratia marcescens strain NPKC3_2_21: Besides its insecticidal capabilities, this bacterium promotes plant growth. It combats the diamondback moth by producing enzymes that degrade their exoskeleton and other toxic metabolites to the pest. This dual action helps control the pest population and enhances the overall health and resilience of the cabbage plants, making them less susceptible to future infestations.
By integrating these biocontrol agents, PRIMA Agro Tech provides a comprehensive and sustainable approach to reducing diamondback moth populations, effectively controlling the pest and supporting the long-term health and productivity of Brassicaceae crops.
PT. PRIMA AGROTECH
Komplek Ruko Pluit Junction No. SH-03
Jl. Pluit Raya No. 1
Jakarta Utara 14440
Indonesia
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