Biocontrol potential of Heterorhabditis indica against the maggot of Bactrocera cucurbitae (Diptera:Tephritidae)
Keywords:
Bactrocera cucurbitae, Heterorhabditis indica, cucurbits, infective juveniles, biological control.Abstract
Studies conducted to determine the pathogenic efficiency and bio-control potential of the entomopathogenic nematode Heterorhabditis indica against melon fruit fly Bactrocera cucurbitae showed dose-dependent and time dependant effect. The 24 h LD50 value of H. indica was 50.28 and that at 48h was considerably reduced (38.17). Highest mortality was observed @ 160 IJs/maggot in the bioassay. In field trials also, H indica successfully reduced pest population. A higher mortality of 65% was realized when the parasite was used @ 400,000 in 100 ml of aqua suspension. The present study confirms the susceptibility of B. cucurbitae against H. indica under laboratory and field conditions.Â