Characterization and comparison of Metarhizium strains isolated from Rhynchophorus ferrugineus. Issue 2 (6th June 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cito, Annarita; Mazza, Giuseppe; Strangi, Agostino; Benvenuti, Claudia; Barzanti, Gian P.; Dreassi, Elena; Turchetti, Tullio; Francardi, Valeria; Roversi, Pio F.
• Is Part Of: FEMS microbiology letters. Volume 355:Issue 2(2014:Jun.)
• Page Start: 108
• Page End: 115
• Publication Date: 2014-06-06
• Subjects: Microbiology -- Periodicals; 579
• DOI: 10.1111/1574-6968.12470
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0378-1097

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main" id="fml12470-abs-0001"> <title>Abstract</title> <p> <italic>Rhynchophorus ferrugineus</italic> is considered the worst pest of palm species, and few natural enemies are reported for this parasite in its area of origin. Here, we report the first recovery of the entomopathogenic fungus <italic>Metarhizium pingshaense</italic> associated with <italic>R. ferrugineus</italic> from Vietnam. The morphological, biochemical, and toxicological features of this strain were studied and compared with those of another <italic>Metarhizium</italic> strain associated with this weevil in Sicily (Italy), an area of recent introduction. The potential use of these fungi as biocontrol agents was tested against adult insects in laboratory trials and a similar mortality rate was found. Both strains were able to produce toxins and cuticle‐degrading proteases, but they showed dissimilar enzymatic and toxicological profiles, suggesting a different virulence activity.</p> </abstract>