Compatibility of Entomopathogenic Fungi Paecilomyceslilacinus with Insecticides Used in Banana Cultivation

Background: Integrated pest management is an approach of pest control which utilizes cultural, physical, biological and chemical methods. Biocontrol is an integral component of integrated pest management of banana. Use of biocontrol agents like entomopathogenic fungi along with compatible insecticides enhance the pest control efficiency and thereby reduce the quantity of insecticides required. Method: The in vitro fungitoxic effect of insecticides used in banana cultivation viz; acephate (SP 75), chlorpyrifos (EC 20), quinalphos (EC 25), imidacloprid (SL 17.8%), fipronil (SC 5%), cartap hydrochloride (G 4%), flubendiamide (SC 39.35m/m), dimethoate (EC 30%) and chlorantraniliprole (0.4% G) on the vegetative growth of the fungus Paecilomyces lilacinus was evaluated by poisoned food technique. Based on the fungi toxicity values, the insecticides were classified into non-compatible / least compatible / moderately compatible and compatible types. Results: Based on the compatibility to Paecilomyces lilacinus, the insecticides quinalphos and chlorpyrifos were classified as non-compatible; fipronil, dimethoate and cartap hydrochloride as least compatible; acephate, chlorantraniliprole and flubendiamide as moderately compatible and imidacloprid as compatible. Conclusions: The insecticide imidacloprid can be used in banana IPM programs as it is compatible with the entomopathogenic fungus Paecilomyces lilacinus, an important biocontrol agent for nematodes and other insect pests of banana.