The whitefly (Aleyrodidae) poses a significant threat to various host plants, with its ability to spread plant viruses and produce harmful secretions. PRIMA Agro Tech uses biocontrol agents such as Verticillium lecanii and Beauveria bassiana to target and reduce whitefly populations. This strategy provides a sustainable and effective solution to protect crops from the extensive damage caused by whiteflies.
The whitefly poses a significant threat to many host plants. Commonly found in white and black, these pests are small, measuring about 1-1.5 mm in size, and are known for producing a white-coloured wax that acts as a protective shield.
One of the key concerns with whiteflies is their role as vectors for various plant viruses, making them a critical pest in agriculture. They can be identified by the brownish-yellow spots they create on plant leaves. Additionally, the secretion produced by these insects often leads to the growth of sooty moulds, further harming the plant by blocking sunlight and impairing photosynthesis.
PRIMA Agro Tech employs two sets of biocontrol microorganisms to combat whitefly infestations effectively:
Verticillium lecanii strain SZWL7 and Isaria fumosorosea strain Isfm-CPF: Verticillium lecanii, a naturally occurring fungus, targets whiteflies by infecting them and disrupting their cellular functions, leading to their death. Isaria fumosorosea also acts as a pathogen to the whiteflies. It colonises the insect’s body, impeding its ability to feed and reproduce, effectively reducing its population. Using these two fungi in tandem creates a more hostile environment for whiteflies, enhancing overall pest control efficacy.
Verticillium lecanii isolate ID05-F0117 and Beauveria bassiana isolate B33: Verticillium lecanii isolate ID05-F0117 functions by invading the whitefly’s body, secreting enzymes and toxins that are lethal to the insect. Beauveria bassiana isolate B33 works by attaching to the surface of the whitefly, germinating and penetrating its exoskeleton, and then growing inside the insect, which disrupts its internal functions and leads to mortality. This isolate is particularly effective in controlling whitefly populations due to its virulence and ability to spread within whitefly colonies.
Both of these solutions harness the natural insecticidal properties of the fungi, offering a sustainable and effective approach to controlling whitefly populations and minimising the damage they inflict on crops and plants.
PT. PRIMA AGROTECH
Komplek Ruko Pluit Junction No. SH-03
Jl. Pluit Raya No. 1
Jakarta Utara 14440
Indonesia
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