Mites

Mites (Tetranychus sp.) of the genus Tetranychus represent a serious agricultural challenge, significantly impacting various crops. These pests, characterised by their reddish or yellowish appearance with black spots, cause notable damage to plant leaves. PRIMA Agro Tech addresses this issue with a focused biocontrol approach, utilising Verticillium lecanii and Isaria fumosorosea. This strategy aims not only to control mite populations but also to preserve the overall health of the plants, contributing to sustainable and efficient agricultural practices.

About Pest

Mites, commonly found in groups on the undersides of leaves, are particularly destructive to plants. They damage plants by sipping cell fluids from the leaves, leading to a loss of chlorophyll and a reduction in the plant’s photosynthetic capacity. This infestation results in leaves turning yellow and eventually falling off, severely affecting the health and productivity of the plant. In severe cases, the mites can cause extensive defoliation, significantly reducing crop yields and quality.

Microbial Consortium

PRIMA Agro Tech employs two specific biocontrol microorganisms to manage mite infestations effectively:

Verticillium lecanii strain SZWL7: This fungus is a natural predator of mites. It infects the mites upon contact, penetrating their exoskeleton and colonising their bodies. The fungus then proliferates inside the mite, causing its death. Verticillium lecanii is particularly effective in controlling mite populations due to its specific pathogenicity towards these pests, reducing their numbers and preventing further plant damage.

Isaria fumosorosea strain Isfm-CPF: This entomopathogenic fungus acts similarly by infecting the mites upon contact. Once attached to the mite, it penetrates the exoskeleton and grows inside the body. As it multiplies, Isaria fumosorosea consumes the internal nutrients of the mite and releases toxins, weakening and eventually killing the host. This fungus effectively controls various mite development stages, from larvae to adults.

PRIMA Agro Tech’s approach offers a comprehensive and environmentally friendly solution to managing mite populations using these targeted biocontrol agents. This method addresses the current infestations and creates an unfavourable environment for future mite reproduction, thereby ensuring the sustained health and productivity of crops affected by mites.

Solutions & Related Products