D3377: Integrating entomopathogenic fungi and entomopathogenic nematodes for the management of the sweetpotato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci

The sweetpotato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci Middle East-Asia Minor 1 (MEAM1) is a major insect pest in vegetable crops worldwide. The insect creates extensive damage by direct feeding on plants, secreting honeydew, causing plant disorders, and transmitting plant viruses. In general, MEAM1 management relies mainly on the utilization of chemical insecticides. However, MEAM1 has evolved considerable resistance to insecticides from most chemical classes. Therefore, alternative plant protection strategies are warranted, such as biological control using combined applications of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) and entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN). There is limited to no available information on combined use of EPF and EPN to manage MEAM1. In this study, two EPF (Beauveria bassiana and Cordyceps fumosorosea) and three EPN strains (Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, H. floridensis, and Steinernema carpocapsae) will be evaluated alone or in combination for virulence and efficacy against MEAM1 third instar nymphs under laboratory conditions. The interactions (synergistic, additive, or antagonistic) in the combined treatments of EPF and EPN will be discussed. Furthermore, sporulation and nematode production will be assessed in the related treatments. This study will provide critical information on integrating EPF with EPN to control MEAM1