Biocompatible Formulation of Potential Fungal Biopesticide Nomuraea rileyi (f.) Samson for the Improved Post Treatment Persistence and Biocontrol Potential

The development of pest control measures using microorganisms, especially entomopathogens, has received increasing attention in recent years. Formulation of biological control agent is an important criterion for sustainable agriculture. Fungal biopesticides mainly Nomuraea rileyi is widely used to control various economic important insect pests. In the present study, various formulations of N. rileyi biogel, oil and hydrogel were prepared, and evaluated for post treatment persistence under different temperatures and the biocontrol potential against groundnut defoliator Spodoptera litura (Fab.) (Lepidoptera Noctuidae). Among the formulations, maximum rate of persistence was recorded in biogel. Fungal spores could retain the viability in all the tested temperatures in biogel formulation. Enhanced pesticidal activity was also recorded in the same formulation. The present study suggests the possible utilization of biogel formulation of N. rileyi to control economic important pests under field conditions.