Evaluation of the Efficacy of Entolek K Planteco® Biopesticide Based on Akanthomyces Lecanii Fungus Against Pest Orthopterans in Soybean Agroecosystems in Southeast Kazakhstan

Abstract

Pest control services dealing with mass pests such as locusts and grasshoppers are forced to use insecticides of various origins to prevent crop damage. In most cases, mainly chemical insecticides are used. This method of regulating pest populations has many negative consequences. As a result of chemical treatments with broad-spectrum insecticides, not only pests are killed, but also non–target organisms,primarily entomophages and pollinators. One of the alternatives to the chemical method of control is the use of biopesticides based on entomopathogenic viruses, bacteria, and fungi. The impact of the biopesticide "Entolek KPlanteco®" based on the fungus Akanthomyces lecanii on different species of locusts, grasshoppers, and katydids was evaluated in soybean plantings of southeast Kazakhstan. Locust and grasshopper mortality was 70% on the 3^rd day after treatment and 98% on the 7^th day, while katydid mortality on the same days was 50 and 70% respectively. Thus"Entolek K Planteco ®" proved efficient for controlling harmful locusts, grasshoppers and katydids. This is especially important in sensitive areas where the use of chemical insecticides is legally prohibited (water protection zones, specially protected natural areas, agricultural land for growing organic products.