Infection of Beauveria bassiana and Cordyceps javanica on different immature stages of Duponchelia fovealis Zeller (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Abstract Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) can be viable options for biological control of agricultural pests. The selection of fungal strains is crucial for a successful pest control. The current study aimed to determine in the laboratory the susceptibility of different immature stages of Duponchelia fovealis Zeller (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) to EPF strains (Beauveria bassiana Bea111 and Cordyceps javanica Isa340). Immature stages of D. fovealis were sprayed with EPF concentrations from 2 × 103 to 2 × 109 conidia mL−1 and their viability and mortality were evaluated. Lethal time and concentration were estimated for pupae and each larval instar. Virulence depended on strain, dose, and insect life stage. The eggs were resistant to Bea111 and Isa340 strains. Mortality of larvae depended on the EPF strain and the larval instar, with the first instar being the most sensitive. Lethal concentrations for D. fovealis 1st instar larvae were 3.4 × 105 and 1.7 × 107 conidia mL−1 with Bea111 and Isa340, respectively. Isa340 performed better than Bea111 for controlling pupae. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the adhesion and penetration structures of both fungi in the 2nd instar infected larvae 6 h after inoculation, while fungal extrusion occurred between 54 and 94 h after spraying with Bea111 and Isa340, respectively.