Entomopathogenic Virus (Bilogical Control Agent) of Setora nitens L.
ADVANTAGES:
- Safe for humans and other non-target organisms.
- Reduction of pesticide residues in food.
- Preservation of other natural enemies.
- Increased biodiversity in managed ecosystems.
- Alternative to chemical insecticides.
- Reduce the risks of pollution.
- Limits the development of resistance in their host.
USE OF ENTHOMOPATHOGENIC AGENTS
S. nitens L. (Nettle Caterpillar)
- Order: LepidopteraFamily: Limacodidae
- Serious insect pest of oil palm (Frond damage of 90%; 30% crop loss)
- Defoliators
- 3 Species: Darna trima, Setothosea assigna, S. nitens
DISADVANTAGES:
- Narrow host range when targeting a variety of pests at one time.
- Cost more if compared to chemicals pesticides.
- Lack of knowledge on their existence by potential local farmers
- Non-existence of regulation and registration guidelines
- Do not give a lasting solution (a pest outbreak)
- Variable efficacy.
- Proper timing and application procedures.
- Limited potential market due to treatment for specific pest only.
Conventional Method
(Chemical Control)
CONCLUSION...
ISSUES & PROBLEMS
(Chemical Control)
ENTHOMOPATHOGENIC
- The virus infecting S. nitens is very PROMISING as bioinsecticides
- Infected caterpillars could be kept under Freezing Temperatures as a source (usage if needed)
- The virus is SPHERICAL & ABSENT of envelope (observation under TEM)
Control velvet bean caterpillar in Brazil
Other POTENTIAL enthomopathogenic agents in M'sia
- Environment damage
- Pollution
- Toxicity to human & domestic animals
- Development of Resistance & New pest
- Damage to beneficial insects
- Resistance phenomena
- VIRUS
- FUNGI
- BACTERIA
- NEMATODES
Control Rhinoceres Beetle in the Andaman Islands, India.
Demand for SAFER PESTICIDES!
BIOPESTICIDES!!!