Efficacy of a Powdered Beauveria bassiana Formulation against Cocoa Pod Borer and Fall Armyworm

Abstract

HistoryThis study evaluated the effectiveness of a single Beauveria bassiana powder formulation across two complementary pest-crop systems: cocoa-cocoa pod borer (Conopomorpha cramerella) and maize-fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda).The objective was to assess its broad-spectrum biocontrol potential by testing different concentrations, application methods, and culture durations under field and laboratory conditions.Field application on cocoa fruits (8-11 cm, two months old) significantly reduced pod borer infestation from 66.66% (control) to 27.77% (150 g formulation).Laboratory and field evaluations on maize indicated that the formulation with 75 g/500 mL water and maize flour achieved the highest spore density and 100% larval mortality at a 21-day culture duration.The treated maize plots also exhibited reduced pest incidence (30.1%) and higher yields (9.70 t/ha) compared to controls (42.1% and 8.83 t/ha).These results demonstrate that a single B. bassiana formulation can effectively suppress two major insect pests under distinct ecological conditions, supporting its role as a multi-target and broad-spectrum biocontrol agent.This integrative approach highlights the formulation's potential contribution to sustainable and integrated pest management strategies in both cocoa and maize production systems.

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