Evaluation of Bacterial Strains as a Sustainable Approach for Control of Myzus cerasi (F.) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) Under Laboratory and Field Conditions

This study aims to evaluate the insecticidal activity of four bacterial strains against <i>M. cerasi</i> under both laboratory and field conditions, in order to provide a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides. Four environmentally friendly bacterial strains were evaluated for their potential as biocontrol agents: <i>Brevibacillus brevis</i> (FD-1), <i>Bacillus cereus</i> (FD-63), <i>Bacillus thuringiensis</i> subsp. <i>kenyae</i> (FDP-8), and <i>Bacillus thuringiensis</i> subsp. <i>kurstaki</i> (FDP-41). Experiments were conducted under both controlled laboratory and field conditions. Data showed that mortality rates ranged from 33.33% to 93.33% under controlled conditions and from 13.33% to 50% under field conditions over the 96 h period. <i>B. thuringiensis</i> subsp. <i>kurstaki</i> (FDP-41) and <i>B. thuringiensis</i> subsp. <i>kenyae</i> (FDP-8) were the most effective bacterial strains against the aphids in controlled conditions. The percentage of mortality related to these applications was 93.33% and 80% in 96 h under laboratory conditions. However, the effectiveness of <i>B. thuringiensis</i> subsp. <i>kurstaki</i> (FDP-41) was 50% at 96 h in the field. These findings suggest that <i>B. thuringiensis</i> subsp. <i>kurstaki</i> and <i>B. thuringiensis</i> subsp. <i>kenyae</i> hold significant potential as biological control agents against <i>M. cerasi</i>. Additionally, FDP-41 showed the lowest LT₅₀ value of 25.37 h in the laboratory and 86.40 h in the field. This indicates a much more rapid and potent effect on <i>M. cerasi</i> compared to other strains. As a result, it was concluded that these bacterial strains may be used successfully as biocontrol agents in the biological control of <i>M. cerasi</i>. Their successful use could reduce reliance on synthetic insecticides, thereby minimizing pesticide residues on crops and contributing to safer agricultural production and environmental sustainability.