Biological management of citrus blackfly

The citrus industry faces significant challenges due to insect pests, notably the citrus blackfly (Aleurocanthus woglumi), which severely impacts production. A. woglumi infestations reduce both the quantity and quality of citrus crops by feeding on plant sap and facilitating the growth of sooty mold, which inhibits photosynthesis. Chemical pesticides have been the primary control method, but their overuse has led to pest resistance and environmental concerns. Consequently, there is growing interest in biocontrol methods that utilize microbial agents, specifically fungal pathogens, as sustainable alternatives. This study focuses on the biocontrol potential of Aschersonia aleyrodis, a fungal entomopathogen, which has demonstrated effectiveness in managing A. woglumi populations. The research evaluates the use of A. aleyrodis and other biocontrol agents such as Lecanicillium lecanii, along with botanicals like neem oil and Azadirachtin, in managing A. woglumi populations. Field experiments were conducted at the All-India Co-Ordinated Research Project on Fruits Field, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, during 2023-24. Vidarbha, Maharashtra. Using randomized block designs with multiple treatments. Two sprays were conducted in fifteen days intervals observations before and after spraying are recorded. The results revealed that imidacloprid at 0.5 ml/lit concentration was found the most effective as an insecticidal treatment while Aschersoniya aleyrodis at 2 ml/lit reduces A. woglumi population significantly and gradually amongst biorational treatments. This was followed by Neem oil 5%, A. aleyrodis at 1ml/lit, Aschersoniya 0.5ml + Lecanicillium 0.5 ml and Azadirchtin 10000 ppm. The treatment Aschersoniya at 0.5ml, Lecanicillium 1.0 ml and Lecanicillium at 0.5ml concentration found less effective.