Biocontrol of Eurydema ventralis (Kolenati) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) by Entomopathogenic Bacteria

Abstract: The cabbage bug (Eurydema ventralis (Kolenati, 1846)) is an insect species belonging to the family Pentatomidae (Hemiptera). Feeding by sucking the sap from the leaves and shoots of plants causes significant yield losses. Its broad host range and continuous movement from plant to plant reduce the effectiveness of insecticidal treatments. In addition, considering the negative aspects of chemical control, biological control has recently gained importance. In this study, the use of entomopathogens against this pest was investigated, and seven bacterial isolates belonging to the genera Bacillus and Pseudomonas were tested on E. ventralis adults under controlled conditions. Application of the bacterial strains resulted in mortality rates ranging from 20.00 to 93.33%. After 168 h, the mortality rates caused by these strains were determined as follows: 93.33% (Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kenyae FDP 8), 83.33% (Bacillus thuringiensis FDP 63), 80.00% (Bacillus atropheus FD 1), 70.00% (Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kenyae FDP 42), 63.33% (Bacillus sphaericus FD 49), and 60.00% (Bacillus atrophaeus FD 17). These results suggest that B. thuringiensis subsp. kenyae, B. thuringiensis and B. atropheus are a promising candidate for biological control of E. ventralis.