Habitat and environmental factors influencing the control of migratory locusts (Locusta migratoria) with an entomopathogenic fungus (Metarhizium anisopliae)

Abstract

Locusts are important pests in warm, semi-arid regions of the world. Traditionally, chemical insecticides have been used to control bands and swarms, but this is coming under great scrutiny. Metarhizium anisopliae is an entomopathogenic fungus, which is formulated in an oil to produce a biopesticide that has been tested in several countries. In Australia, field trials have indicated that efficacy is dependent on rate of application and vegetation cover, while rate of development of both the locust and Metarhizium is influenced by temperature. A model has been developed to assess the importance of these factors in the rate and effectiveness of control of migratory locusts (Locusta migratoria) with Metarhizium using the Australian isolate FI-985. Model simulations suggest that three application rates may be required in field control operations: a low dose of 1×1012 spores/ha when herbaceous cover was low; a high dose (5×1012 spores/ha) where high cover will reduce the likelihood of locusts receiving spores directly from the spraying operation or from pickup from the vegetation; and a moderate dose where cover is moderate but where locusts are likely to pick up an infection from spores on the vegetation. Field efficacy trials are currently underway against the Australian plague locust (Chortoicetes terminifera), spur-throated locust (Austracris guttulosa) and wingless grasshopper (Phaulacridium vittatum) and this model may be extended to these species in the future.