Eco-friendly control method against invasive pest box tree moth, (Cydalima perspectalis (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae))

Background Buxus sempervirens (Boxwood) is a type of plant that has economic and cultural significance, danger of extinction due to various factors. Cydalima perspectalis (Walker, 1859) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), an invasive species, has an important role as a boxwood pest. The inadequacy of the pheromone trap methods recommended to control the pest or the negative effects of chemical insecticides on the environment have led to seeking alternative approaches in this regard. In this study, it was conducted to determine whether entomopathogens can be applied in pest control, the insecticidal effects of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp . kenyae (FDP-8), Bacillus cereus (FD-63), Brevibacillus brevis (FD-1) and Vibrio hollisae (FD-70) bacterial strains at the concentration of 1 × 10 8 CFU/ml and Beauveria bassiana (Bals.-Criv.) Vuill. (Cordycipitaceae) (ET 10) fungal isolate at the concentrations of 1 × 10 6 , 1 × 10 7 and 1 × 10 8 conidia/ml were tested under controlled conditions. Results As compared the results of the bacterial strains and fungal tested, it was determined that the best results were obtained from in the fungal isolate at the concentration of 1 × 10 8 conidia/ml. After 192 and 216 h. of observation, the 1 × 10 8 CFU/ml of bacterial strains: B. cereus FD-63, B. brevis FD-1 and V. hollisae FD-70; also, 1 × 10 8 conidia/ml concentration of ET 10 fungal isolate of B. bassiana control C. perspectalis caused mortality rate of 100% under laboratory conditions. Conclusion Future studies of these microorganisms against this pest in the field, may be an important alternative method to control this pest.