Evaluation of biorationals against Myzus persicae Sulzer (Aphididae: Hemiptera) on broccoli under net house

Abstract

Myzus persicae Sulzer is an important sucking pest on broccoli under net house condition. It reduces the yield and economic value of the crop. Its population build up rapidly under net house or green house due to congenial conditions like elevated temperature, relative humidity and lack of natural enemies. Use of chemical insecticides have negative impact, like toxic residues in soil, water, air and food, resurgence and resistance of insect pests, and effect on human health and non-target organisms like natural enemies, pollinators, and other beneficial organisms. To overcome these problems there is a need for alternative ecofriendly management strategies. The study was conducted to evaluate efficacy of biorationals like azadirachtin, pongamia, spinosad and Entomopathogenic fungus viz., Lecanicillium muscarium, Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium rileyi, Metarhizium anisopliae against M. persicae.