Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting

BUSINESS MEETING (Call to order 8:30 AM)

1. Election of Secretary: Robert Behle motioned for the election of Anamika Sharma as secretary nominated by Dr. Gadi Reddy. All approved. 
2. Local arrangements report: (Robert Behle) 
3. Introductions: Robert Behle (2018 chair): Welcomed all and began with introductions (16 participants). Attendees introduced themselves including short introduction about their affiliation and work. 
4. Minutes of 2017 (prepared by Anamika Sharma): A copy of the 2017 minutes was circulated electronically prior to the meeting and a hardcopy was available at the meeting. A motion to approve the 2017 minutes was made by Gadi Reddy and was seconded by Robert Behle and approved. The motion passed unanimously. Minutes of the 2018 meeting are required to be posted within 60 days. 
5. Chair report (Robert Behle) was successful in renewal to S1070. Advertise for next year, plan for next year. Should not be any restriction about having international academics as official members of group and more international industry people should be encouraged as well. 
6. NIFA administrators report (Rogers Leonard): USDA NIFA there is strong push not to move, but there are chances that NIFA might move from Washington. Representative Conaway is trying hard to pass new farm bill. Strong push because projects with self-grant may get lost in AFRI. Before submitting a proposal, please check the priority. Group members were encouraged to serve on the review panel for various grants. Serving in the review panel will give an opportunity to understand the priority of committee members. Overall, people working on pest vectors are in demand. Preproposal could be a good idea (Dan and Patricia mentioned that sometime preproposal might not work in some work environments).  Rogers further emphasized on increasing the members. This group should incorporate new members from around the USA. Promotion to colleagues and students should be done by team members. Federal and states are also advised to participate. Interaction between likeminded people working on similar subjects from multi-institutes should be a target as 25% Hatch grant money typically are spent on multi-grant projects. Since this is an informal meeting, bringing students and scientists from the same institution will enable us to strengthen the group. Results should be shared extensively and should give a clear idea about topics we are dealing with. In report, if people do not want to add some portions from their results, then they can specify that in meeting while sharing their results and experience.

Robert Behle presented details about Funding Opportunities in Plant Protection from NIFA supplied by Robert M. Nowierski, (National Program Leader, Bio-Based Pest Management, USDA-NIFA, Washington, DC). Details are specified below:

• 2009 - NRI and IFAFS (Initiative for Future Agriculture and Food Systems) combined into a“premier” program called the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI). 60% fundamental, 40% applied research (up to 30% can be integrated [res., ed., and ext.]). IDC cap currently up to 30%.

• Education and Workforce Development - $24 million.
• Foundational and Applied Science Programs (basic research) - $182 million.

            - Farm Bill Priority Areas

            - Exploratory Program

            - Critical Ag. Res. and Extension (CARE)

            - Food and Agriculture Cyberinformatics and Tools Program (FACT).

• Education and Workforce Development Program (Pre- and Post-Docs; Secondary School teachers; Research/Extension Experiential Learning).
• Exploratory Program (to fund research for new ideas; Deadline – LOIs accepted anytime throughout the year.; $200,000 (25% success rate)
• Critical Agricultural Research and Extension Program ($300,000)
• The Food and Agriculture Cyberinformatics and Tools (FACT) Program. Focuses on data science to: Enable systems and communities to effectively utilize data, Improve resource management; Integrate new technologies and approaches
• Plant Health and Production and Plant Products [Foundational Knowledge of Ag Production, Systems, Pests and Beneficial Species in Ag, Production Systems, Physiology of Agricultural Plants, Plant Breeding for Ag Production, Pollinator Health: Research and Application].
• Animal Health and Production and Animal Products
• Food Safety, Nutrition and Health
• Renewable Energy, Natural Resources, and the Environment
• Systems and Technology
• Economics and Rural Communities
• Sustainable Agricultural Systems (more applied research and often integrated – Research, Education, Extension) - $80 million.
• Purpose: Promote the sustainable supply of abundant, affordable, safe, nutritious, and accessible food and other agricultural products, while enhancing economic opportunities and improving the long-term health and well-being of all Americans. Coord. Ag. Projects up to $10 mil each.
• Applicants must address one or more of following 25-year goals:
  • Increasing agricultural productivity
  • Optimizing water and nitrogen use efficiency
  • Protecting yield losses from stresses, diseases, and pests
  • Reducing food-borne diseases
  • Advancing development of bio-based fuels, chemicals, and coproducts.
• Pest Management Programs:
• CPPM - Crop Protection and Pest Management Program

ARDP – Applied Research and Development Program (Applied Research, Research-led, Extension-led

                        EIP – Extension Implementation Program

                        RCP – Regional Coordination Program

• MBT – Methyl Bromide Transitions Program
• OTP – Organic Transitions Program
• IR-4 – Minor Crop Pest Management Program
• SARE – Sustainable Ag. Res. and Education Program
• OREI – Organic Ag. Res. and Extension Initiative ($19 mil.)
• SCRI – Specialty Crop Research Initiative ($50 mil.) + $25 mil citrus res.

 Further details about funding can be assessed from http://www.NIFA.usda.gov/fo/funding.cfm 

7. New business: Dan Peck mentioned the prospect of sponsoring some of the group and meeting expenses by industries affiliated with bioinsecticides. Rogers Leonard and Robert Behle agreed to this point and mentioned that earlier involvement by industry representatives faded away in the last few years. Dan motioned to allow industry people to pay for some expenses and present new information or recent results. Motion seconded by Ed Lewis. All were in favor. Chair needs to reach out to the industry people.

Surendra indicated the possibility of changing venue to improve the number of participants. However, Robert mentioned that combining this meeting with Entomological Society of America (ESA) is easier and also allows advertising more. Surendra also mentioned that the Journal of Invertebrate Pathology would encourage another special issue based on last year symposium. Special issue publications include ample amount of information and hence increases impact factor of the journal. Ed Lewis mentioned that about 15 contributors will be required for the special issue and non-speakers should also be involved as contributors. Special issue would include research articles, review and forum articles.

Rogers mentioned including last year special issue in an output of this meeting.

Gadi Reddy indicated that developing and distributing the brochure to publishers and Society of Invertebrate Pathology will help us to get good manuscripts. Robert mentioned that collaborations among group members to develop a manuscript would also be encouraged.

Discussions for Future Meetings:

1. Baculovirus for corn earworm works better than pyrethroid. If companies are interested in production. Heligen by AgBiTech. They also have a similar product for managing the fall armyworm.
2. Dan Peck mentioned that he can be contacted for fresh stock of BioWorks’ bioinsecticides rather than researchers obtaining it third-party such as through Amazon.
3. Promote the group as much as possible.
4. For next year topic:
   • Barriers to the implementation for microbial insecticides (education, lab to the field) including challenges and opportunities were discussed as the theme. The subject will include production issue (compatibility and synergism), marketing issue, and education issue. Education about using microbials as biocontrol agents.
   • Robert mentioned a talk should include ‘Historical success of microbial agents’.
   • Industry people should also be included as speakers.
   • Patricia suggested: ‘Past, present, and future, advocating microbials’ and is tentatively approved. Maybe emphasizing more about future and upcoming technologies. Surendra suggested, ‘Advocating entomopathogens for sustainable agriculture’. Motion approved by everyone.
5. Speaker’s names were discussed.
6. A competitive proposal writing group can be included in meeting as a workshop next year. The workshop can happen in the morning and later on, brief details (highlights) of S1070 participants can be discussed. Hence reports should be submitted earlier to the meeting to the section leaders. Maybe one presentation for one section can be organized. This change was motioned by Pasco and seconded by Surendra. Motion passed.

 4:50 Meeting adjourned.

Discussion Topic 1 - Large acreage crops

Gadi Reddy: Spoke about wheat stem sawfly, pea leaf weevil, and alfalfa weevil. On Alfalfa weevil, in 2017 Bioinsecticide-BeetleGone® (Bacillus thuringiensis galleriae strain SDS-502) provided 50-60% control of alfalfa weevil (Hypera postica). It had no negative impact on parasitoid populations (Bathyplectes curculionis and Oomyzus incertus).

On pulse crops, higher dose of B. bassiana provided 50-60% control of pea leaf weevil (Sitona lineatus). X-Pectro (B. bassiana + pyrethrins) also provided similar control.  Initial assay with lady beetle showed a high mortality in comparison to lacewing larvae. Bioinsecticides were also tested on beneficial insects in 2018. Three potential control agents for pea leaf weevil [Mycotrol ESO® (Beauveria bassiana GHA), Xpectro OD® (B. bassiana GHA + Pyrethrin) and Entrust WP® (spinosad 80%)] were selected for this study and were tested on lacewings and ladybeetles. Concentrations of 1.44 ml/L (Mycotrol), 5 ml/L (Xpectro) and 0.182 g/L (Entrust) were used as noted on the label.  Xpectro was found to be highly toxic to ladybeetle larvae, causing nearly 98 ± 1.66 % mortality. Lacewing larvae were found to be less susceptible to the three tested bio-pesticides, but Xpectro (Mean ± SE; 37.2 ± 5.06) caused high mortality followed by Entrust (Mean ± SE; 30.0 ± 4.40) and Mycotrol (22.5 ± 3.22). In another set of experiment, other bioinsecticides tested on pea leaf weevil were Spinosad (Saccharopolyspora spinosa), PyGanic EC® (Pyrethrins), Mycotrol ESO® (B. bassiana GHA), Xpulse® OD (B. bassiana GHA + Cold pressed Neem extract) and Xpectro® OD (B. bassiana GHA + Pyrethrin). Mortality % was shown as follows: Spinosad > Xpectro > Mycotrol > Xpulse > PyGanic.

On wheat stem sawfly (WSS) in 2017, study of adult settling preference behavior on wheat plants with both synthetic plant defense elicitors [Actigard (Acibenzolar-S-meth) and cis-jasmone] and a botanical insecticide (Azadirachtin) showed that two times applications of Actigard had significantly lower WSS infested stem damage, significantly increased diapausing larval mortality percentages and lowered stem lodging. Based on this result, in 2018 bioinsecticides were tested at high, and low doses: Actigard (1.50 g/L and 0.75 g/L), neem (5.76 ml/L and 2.88 ml/L) and Xpectro (5.0 ml/L and 2.5 ml/L). Results are being analyzed.

Anamika Sharma: Wireworm control with entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) grown on different substrates in field studies. Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium robertsii DWR 356 and DWR2009, Beauveria ERL836, Metarhizium brunneum F52 (on millet, polenta, and couscous substrates) were used in furrows in 2017 and 2018. In 2017, although no significant difference was observed both M. robertsii DWR 356 and M. robertsii DWR 2009 at higher rates, enabled the protection from wireworm damage by reducing wireworm population and increased yield was also noticed. Metarhizium robertsii DWR 356 on the polenta carrier on the site with low wireworm pressure (Valier) and M. robertsii DWR 2009 on millet carrier on the site with high wireworm pressure (Ledger) showed the promising results. In 2018, millet and couscous were used as a control and Beauveria GHA millet, Beauveria GHA Couscous, Beauveria ERL836 millet, Beauveria ERL836 Couscous, Metarhizium brunneum F52 Millet, Metarhizium brunneum F52 Couscous, Metarhizium DWR2009 Millet, Metarhizium DWR2009 Couscous were tested in furrows in six sites. Results are yet to be analyzed but raw data explains that at the site with higher wireworm pressure, millet and BB ERL on millet provided maximum yield. In irrigated fields, BB GHA both on millet and couscous provided better protection and more yield whereas, in dryland conditions, Metarhizium DWR2009 on couscous and Beauveria ERL836 on millet provided more protection and higher yields. However, several questions still are needed to be answered concerning to use EPFs in wireworm management, especially the important aspect of developing a cost effective biological control strategy to manage wireworms in wheat plantations. Food safety point of concern using couscous was raised by Daniel Zommick. 

For canola pests, in 2016 at two locations biopesticides were tested for flea beetle (Phyllotreta cruciferae) and cabbage seed pod weevil (Ceutorhynchus obstrictus). The biopesticides Entrust, Steinernema-System (Steinernema feltiae) + Barricade polymer gel 1%, Aza-Direct (azadirachtin), Pyganic1.4 EC (pyrethrins extracted from chrysanthemum), Grandevo SC (Chromobacterium subtsugae), and VenerateXC (Heat killed Burkholderia sp. strain A396) were tested as seed treatments and foliar sprays. Control (water) and Gaucho were tested for comparison. Entrust and Steinernema-System generated significantly positive results (significant lower feeding injury) compared to the control and was equally efficient as Gaucho treatment. In 2018, biopesticides were tested at two locations against the flea beetles. The selected biopesticides were Entrust (spinosad), Aza-Direct, and Mycotrol (Beauveria bassiana). Conventional pesticides, Gaucho and Zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang Maxx) were tested as comparison standards. At the high flea beetle population site (Conrad), Entrust provided maximum yield followed by Gaucho and Mycotrol. At Cut Bank with low flea beetle population but more thrips population Entrust provided maximum control and yield followed by Mustang and Mycotrol. Ed Lewis mentioned that use of 0.2% Barricade polymer gel could also work efficiently. 

Ramandeep Kaur Sandhi: Working as a PhD student with Gadi Reddy on entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) for wireworm management. Efficacy of EPNs against wireworm, L. californicus is being tested since 2017. Ten EPN strains are being received from Dr. David Shapiro. Strains tested are Steinernema carpocapsae (all strain and Cxrd strain), Steinernema feltiae (SN strain), Heterorhabditis bacteriophora           (HP88 strain, VS strain), Steinernema riobrave (355 strain, 7-12strain), Heterorhabditis floridensis (K22 strain), Heterorhabditis georgiana (Kesha strain), Steinernema rarum (17 c + e strain). In laboratory bioassay, 4 doses (700, 1400, 2800, 5600 IJs/larva) were used and mortality was observed at weekly intervals. Strains ScA11, ScCxrd, Sr 7-12, Sr 355, HbVS, and Sr 17c+e found to be more effective. After 2 weeks, mortality remained 30% in almost all the strain except Sr 355 and Sr 7-12 with 40-60%.  After 2 weeks, it increased and reached 50-70% in the promising strains. Further shade house experiment was established with 2 doses, 60000 IJs (2800 IJs/larva) and 15000 IJs (700 IJs/larva). Almost same mortality in both doses; no significant differences. 30-50% mortality in ScA11, ScCxrd, Sr 355, and Sr 7-12 after 4 weeks except for Sc A11 and Sr 7-12 with 60% mortality. In 15000 IJs dose, overall average mortality was less than 60000 IJs dose. Native EPNs are being surveyed of 30 fields in Golden Triangle Region of Montana. Four species found and being identified. Further, an effect of soil texture, soil moisture, and soil temperature on the virulence of EPNs against wireworms will be tested. 

Camila Hofman: A survey was conducted to identify entomopathogenic fungi from irrigated commercial cornfields of western Nebraska. Fungal strains identified were tested against western corn rootworm larvae, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, in soil cups. BotaniGard (B. bassiana strain GHA) was tested as a commercial comparison standard. We found local strains of Metarhizium robertsii and M. anisopliae to be virulent. [Collaborators: Anthony Adesemoye (UNL), Gary Yuen (UNL), Lance Meinke (UNL), Stefan Jaronski (USDA)]. DNA barcoding based on the cytochrome oxidase 1 gene (COI) enabled us to identify nematodes obtained from the field surveys and from an inoculation project in Nebraska. Nematode strains identified in western Nebraska were Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, Steinernema feltiae and Steinernema spp. [Collaborators: David Shapiro-Ilan (USDA), Elson Shields (USDA)]. Building of a phylogenetic tree is still to be completed.   

Stefan Jaronski: For wheat stem sawfly, we continued evaluating endophytic potential of selected sawfly-derived Beauveria and Metarhizium in additional wheat varieties, chosen on basis of their reputed resistance to foliar pathogenic fungi. No evident correlation between the success of endophytic establishment and disease resistance. Replicated in planta efficacy tests of several of the fungi under study against sawflies have been conducted this past summer but the final results are only now being determined so cannot be reported here. We determined that an oil-in-water emulsion is the best spray carrier for endophytic establishment via a foliar application, and successfully endophytically established two of our fungi in wheat in the field. Seed inoculation and soil drench/root dip applications have consistently failed to result in endophytism; only foliar application works.  We also have discovered that four of our sawfly-derived Beauveria pseudobassiana are unaffected by a number of strobilurin and triazole wheat fungicides in vitro, whereas our Metarhizium pemphigi and M. anisopliae strains are quite susceptible to both classes, especially the triazoles (strobilurin had variable activity among these strains).  A current cooperative study with a researcher from the Republic of Georgia in the Sidney lab seems to indicate that endophytic colonization by one Beauveria and one Metarhizium strain can reduce the level of infection from a Fusarium graminearum challenge at flowering and can affect growth rate as expressed as time to flowering. Experiments are underway to determine if systemic resistance is induced in wheat by endophytic establishment or even foliar exposure to spores.  [USDA ARS Sidney MT]. USDA and Montana State University have jointly filed a formal patent application for the use of these fungi to manage wheat-stem sawfly and Hessian fly. The technology is being licensed by a Montana Ag biotech company to further develop and (hopefully) commercialize. [USDA ARS Sidney MT]. USDA ARS Sidney MT collaborated with Montana State University, Conrad) in additional field tests of several fungi on two different granular carriers against wireworms. More details from Reddy and Sharma.

David Shapiro-Ilan’s Lab. Entomopathogenic nematodes and fungi were tested for virulence to the maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais (a major grain storage pest). The fungus, B. bassiana was found to be highly virulent in lab studies. We found that the fungus can be effectively applied to burlap storage bags (jute bags) and control the weevil. [Collaborators: George Mbata (Fort Valley State Univ.).]

The Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella, is also a major storage pest. Both entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), Heterorhabditis indica and Steinernema glaseri, and the parasitic wasp, Habrobracon hebetor, are biocontrol agents of P. interpunctella. We found that EPNs preferentially infect wasp-envenomed host larvae compared with larvae that are not been envenomed. For H. indica, the mechanism for preferential infectivity is based on host immobilization (paralysis of the host making it an easier target), yet for S. glaseri a volatile chemical released by the envenomed host is the causal factor for preferential infection. [Collaborators: George Mbata (Fort Valley State Univ.), Hans Alborn (USDA), Mike Strand (Univ. GA)].

Dan Peck: New product, BoteGHA, is coming available for large acreage crops, which has B. bassiana GHA. This new product is equivalent to BotaniGard. 

Patricia Stock: New strain of Isaria sp. was found which is tolerant to Arizona climatic conditions for alfalfa weevil and aphids. 

Robert Behle: mentioned that he can be contacted for requirement of microsclerotia.

Discussion Topic 2. Orchard System

Pasco Avery: The Sri Lankan weevil (Myllocerus undecimpustulatus undatus) invaded Florida and has spread throughout the southern half of the state. It is a polyphagous pest. Efficacy test was done with BotaniGard® ES (Beauveria bassiana), Aza-Max™, PFR-97™ 20% WDG (Isaria fumosorosea) and Met 52® EC (M. anisopliae). BotaniGard consistently performed better in killing the weevils compared to PFR-97 and Met 52. Leaf assay was done on trees in bags, by spraying leaves and releasing the weevil inside and then accessing after 21 days. The poor efficacy of PFR-97 and Met 52 could be related to formulation properties. BotaniGard and Met 52 both contain hydrophobic conidia, whereas PFR-97 was applied as blastospores, which are hydrophilic. PFR-97 is in powder form with no surfactants added whereas BotaniGard and Met 52 contain surfactants and emulsifier suspended in oil and conidia suspended in oil have superior infectivity. Hydrophobic layer of plant cuticle might also play a role in reducing the efficacy of PFR-97 and Met 52.  Aza-Max caused 43% mortality and reduced herbivory by the beetles. BotaniGard caused higher mortality, whereas Aza-Max at both sites produced lower mortality. Aza-Max suppressed the damage by weevils because the active ingredient has a deterrent effect on their feeding. It seems that the combination of Aza-Max and BotaniGard are effective and compatible in field.

Ambrosia beetles (Xylosandrus crassiusculus, Xyleborus volvulus, Xyleborus bispinatus) attack avocado and vector fungus Raffaelea lauricola causing laurel wilt. Since this fungus interacts with xylem of avocado trees and kills whole trees and also gets transmitted through root, it is devastating problem in Florida. About 20% of growers are using Beauveria bassiana (BotaniGard) for managing this beetle. Since BotaniGard is expensive, a strategy to reduce the concentration of B. bassiana spores is important. Hence the study to assess the compatible agrochemicals is on-going. The method employed was a new bark plug bioassay and residual effect was checked over time. The fungicides, Cuprofix, Folpan, and RootShield Plus were found to be compatible with BotaniGard. Fungicides Prophyt and Abound were not found compatible with BotaniGard. Among the insecticides, Hero (zeta-cypermethrin+bifenthrin), Talstar (bifenthrin), and Permethrin did not inhibit infection by B.bassiana and seemed to have a synergistic effect. These compatible combinations together, and testing is on-going to determine field efficacy.

Robert Behle: Testing is on-going to control walnut husk maggots (Rhagoletis sp.). There are six species in America. Trials are on-going to assess the impact of EPFs on larvae in lab and also treating the soil to reduce the annual life cycle. In the lab trials, the maggots were exposed to water agar with EPFs. Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium sp. were most effective. 

Camila Hofman: In pecan, the product Grandevo based on Chromobacterium subtsugae continues to show strong control of the pecan weevil (Curculio caryae) equal to that of chemical insecticides; Grandevo also suppresses pecan aphid populations. We are now trying to use reduced rates of Grandevo to lower costs of the application. Also, we are working on establishing B. bassiana as an endophyte in pecans with some initial success. [Collaborations: Fernando Vega (USDA), Clive Bock (USDA), Justin Hatting (ARC South Africa).]. Based on an AFRI grant and SBIR we are exploring group movement and infection behavior of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs).  We discovered that EPNs move continuously through the soil in groups (like a pack of wolves). We are exploring pheromones that induce EPN behavior such as dispersal. Adding infect-host macerate or pheromones to nematode suspensions enhances dispersal and improves pest control (targets include pecan weevil and others). [Collaborators: Ed Lewis (U of Idaho), Fatma Kaplan (Pheronym, Inc.), Hans Alborn (USDA), Paul Schliekelman (Univ GA).]

In Peach, the nematode, Steinernema carpocapsae, control peach tree borer (Synanthedon exitiosa) at levels equal to chlorpyrifos.  Based on a new SARE grant we are now expanding studies to determine additional benefits of S. carpocapsae in the peach system such as control of root-feeding weevils and plant parasitic nematodes. Root movement of nematodes happens due to pheromones. Studying if pheromones treated nematodes could kill the borer. [Collaborators: Camila Hofman (USDA lead Postdoc), Brett Blaauw & Dario Chavez (University of Georgia), Larry Duncan & Russ Mizell (University of Florida).] 

Ed Lewis indicated that insect mortality caused by Steinernema feltiae can be increased up to 50-60% by using pheromones. 

Patricia Stock: USDA NIFA project on native EPNs. Ascarosides pheromone are produced by EPN. Molecular identification of symbiotic bacteria is done by studying the genes involved and gene knockdown for metabolites. Four compounds are being identified. Accessing the molecule potential to kill other plant pathogens. All the molecules can be synthetically produced. Effect of these pheromones is different from insect pheromone in terms of reproduction and attraction in nematodes to promote the nematodes production.

Surendra: In California, leaf footed bug (Leptoglossus clypealis, L. occidentalis, and L. zonatus) migrate from pomegranates to almonds. Study of controlling them by using Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium is ongoing.

Pasco Avery: For management of Asian citrus psyllid in the grove, we sprayed citrus trees and found that PFR 97+JMS oil are compatible and showed same efficacy compared to Delegate WG (spinetoram) up to 14 days post-spray. Leaf disc bioassay was performed and CFUs were observed up to 21 days post-spray. Tamarixia radiata and other beneficial insects were found more often on PFR, JMS oil, and PFR+ JMS oil compared to Delegate WG (spinetoram). The laboratory component that this field trial was based on has been published.  

Discussion Topic 3. Small fruits and vegetables

Surendra: The western grapeleaf skeletonizer, two entomopathogenic fungi, and Bt subsp. aizawai worked as good as spinosad, and azadirachtin. There was an increase in strawberry fruit yield where Isaria fumosorosea (Pfr-97) was applied to control Botrytis fruit rot. Pfr-97 did not reduce the disease and it wasn’t clear if the increased fruit yield was due to its endophytic/mycorrhiza-like association with plants. Recommended Beauveria bassiana and botanical insecticides for controlling Bagrada bug in organic cole crops. 

Jimmy Klick: Sulfur, oil and biopesticides were evaluated over the past three years for management of Polyphagotarsonemus latus (broad mite) on blackberry. PFR-97 and azadirachtin (Aza-Direct) were most effective when applied preventatively once a week, and twice a week once symptoms appeared.  These applications resulted in fewer broad mite and increased yield compared to sulfur and oil. Growers are adopting these biopesticides in California and are also finding them to reduce other pests as well, including lygus, spider mites, and Drosophila suzukii. For management of giant whitefly (Aleurodicus dugesii) in blueberries, leaf disc assays were done on nymphs. After removing filaments from nymphs they were directly exposed to biopesticides with brief leaf dips into solution. Mycotrol and Aza-Direct were as good as a pyrethroid (zeta-cypermethrin), and results were confirmed with small-scale field trials. 

Robert Behle: For management of cabbage worm, the synergy between Beauveria bassiana blastospores and Bacillus thuringiensis was observed although reasons are unknown yet. This combination could be explored for future use. Bt was isolated from Deliver and re-isolated. Measurement/doses are still needed to be examined properly. Definition of synergy should be understood and examined properly, greater than 20% difference should be considered for significant synergy. 

Discussion Topic 4. Urban and natural landscapes, rangelands, and nurseries 

Robert Behle:  Postdoc in Arizona is working on strains for Bacillus thuringiensis that has activity against mites. To control ticks, we started with Metarhizium and nootkatone (oil from grapefruit). Microsclertia based product can be applied in granular form, which in presence of moisture, produce conidia. 

Dan Peck: Aprehend® is a new B. bassiana (strain GHA) product for bedbugs. Barrier treatment can only be applied by registered applicators.  

Pasco Avery: Pepper whiteflies are emerging as economically important pests of pepper and many other horticultural crops. Isaria fumosorosea can kill these whiteflies and ladybird beetle (Delphastus catalinae) eats 1000s of eggs. Both of these biocontrol agents can be used together since even after eating Isaria infested eggs, beetles don’t die. Similarly, compatibility of entomopathogenic fungi and the spined solider bug on cabbage and bok choy was studied and the bugs do not seem to be affected by EPF.

Choice study with fall armyworm, predatory spined soldier bug (Podisus maculiventris) 4th instar, and Beauveria bassiana showed that predator avoided fungus infected larvae. It was observed that once the predators’ proboscis comes in contact with the fungal propagules on the dead sporulating larva, it will immediately withdraw and begin preening. After this event eventually the insect will prefer and feed on the uninfected larvae. If the predator does feed on an infected, non-sporulating larva, the predator is not adversely affected and will molt to an adult stage.  

Dan Peck: PFR-97 (Isaria fumosorosea Apopka Strain 97) is now being sold as ‘Ancora™’ for ornamental and landscape applications.  

Reports from members not in attendance: Submitted updates on work with various entomopathogens against different pests.  

Discussion Topic 5.  Urban and natural landscapes, rangelands, and Nurseries

Steven Valles and David Oi (ARS-Gainesville, FL): Gene libraries from South American Solenopsis invicta, red imported fire ants, were screened for viruses with the potential to serve as classical biological agents.  Three new viruses were discovered from their sequences, Solenopsis invicta virus-4, Solenopsis invicta virus-5 and Solenopsis invicta virus-6. Characterization of these viruses and their impact on fire ant colonies is just beginning.  All of the new discoveries of viruses in fire ants has required expansion of the taxonomy to place these new viruses—some with unique genome architecture.  Two new virus families have been proposed and ratified by the International Committee on the Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV), including Solinviviridae and Polycipiviridae.  A new isolate (Hybrid) of Solenopsis invicta virus-3 has been sequenced from S. invicta-richteri hybrid ants (i.e. red imported fire ant and black imported fire ant hybrid). Attempts to infect hybrids with the original SINV-3 isolate (DM) failed, suggesting that the new isolate is unique to hybrid ants.

The first viral pathogen of the invasive, tawny crazy ant, Nylanderia fulva virus 1 (NfV-1), was evaluated for its potential as a classical biological control agent by comparing egg-laying rates of infected and uninfected queens.  Initial results indicated inconsistent reductions in fecundity in infected queens.  A naturally infected field population of tawny crazy ants continued to be extremely large and were over-running landscapes, thus field impacts of the infection were not readily apparent.

A.M. Koppenhöfer (Rutgers University): In developing the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium brunneum F52 for the management of annual bluegrass weevils (ABW), we tested the compatibility of the fungus with commonly used turfgrass fungicides. Under laboratory conditions, chlorothalonil did not inhibit the growth of the fungus; iprodione showed a slight inhibitory effect at a higher concentration; propiconazole, TwinLine, and Stratego strongly inhibit the fungal growth except at the lowest concentration of 1 mg/L. Under greenhouse conditions, chlorothalonil, iprodione, and propiconazole were sprayed on pots with creeping bentgrass that had been inoculated with M. brunneum F52. Only propiconazole at the high rate had a slightly suppressive effect. Under field conditions, any suppressive effect on the M. brunneum F52 is likely to be reduced. Spores produced from microsclerotia granules of M. brunneum F52 caused high mortality of ABW adults in Petri dishes in the lab; however, in the greenhouse in pots with creeping bentgrass, the fungus had no significant effect on adults.  In pots with Poa annua in the greenhouse, the fungus had only a limited effect on ABW larval populations. Similarly, the fungus alone did not affect ABW larval populations in the field (0-17% suppression) but provided additive control when combined with the neonicotinoid imidacloprid (imidacloprid alone 27-45% control, combination 34-62% control).

Verle Rodrigues, JCV (Center for Excellence in Quarantine and Invasive Species, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan):

Project 1: Arthropod Microbial communities – determine the roles of major microbial groups on key invasive species.

Project 2: Biocontrol agents – We have advanced in establishing a collection of fungi (including, Beauvearia and Metarhizium isolates) and nematodes (EPNs) from different mountain areas in Puerto Rico.

Project 3: Establishment of a hub for research and education on Agriculture, Plant Health and Biocontrol in the Caribbean. Quarantine and laboratory facilities are fully operational and projects involving students from several countries and subjects are underway. Collaborative work in all related areas is welcome.

ESA-PIE Section Symposium was sponsored by S-1070 (Surendra Dura, David Shapiro-Ilan Co-organizers) titled “Leveraging non-traditional uses of microbial control agents for broad application in crop protection and production”, November 11, 2018.  This outreach opportunity allowed members to update peer scientsits from other specific entomological disciplines on the outputs of the S1050/S1070 projects and expand their network of information dissemination. 

Microbial related publication from group members (2018):

Aristizábal, L.F., Avery, P.B., Caldwell, J., McKenzie, C. L., and Osborne, L.S. (2018) Mitigating trans-boundary movement of Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) on Mentha sp. by pre-shipping treatments of biopesticides. Crop Protection 107: 71-78.

Arthurs, S. and S. K. Dara.  2018.  Microbial biopesticides for invertebrate pests and their markets in the United States.  J. Ivertebr. Pathol.  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2018.01.008

Avery, P.B., Bojorque, V., Gámez, C., Duncan, R.E, Carrillo, D., and Cave, R.D. (2018) Spore acquisition and survival of ambrosia beetles associated with the laurel wilt pathogen in avocados after exposure to entomopathogenic fungi. Insects (accepted Apr 2018). 9 (2), 49; doi:10.3390/insects9020049

Chow, A., Dunlap, C.A., Jackson, M.A., Avery, P.B., Patt, J.M., and Sétamou, M. (2018) Field efficacy of autodissemination and foliar sprays of an entomopathogenic fungus, Isaria fumosorosea (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae), for control of Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Liviidae), on residential citrus. Journal of Economic Entomology, In Press (Accepted 2 July 2018). doi: 10.1093/jee/toy216

Cottrell, T.E., Shapiro-Ilan, D.I., Horton, D.L. (2018) Laboratory assays against adult and larval sap beetles (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) using entomopathogenic nematodes, microbial-based insecticides and synthetic insecticides. Journal of Entomological Science, In Press. (Accepted June 17, 2018).

Dara, S. K. Implementation of integrated pest and disease management in greenhouses: strawberries and other berries.  In Pest and disease management in greenhouse crops.  Eds. Gullino, M. L., A. Albajes, P. Nicot, and J. C. van Lenteren. Springer.  In Press.

Dara, S. K., D. Peck, and D. Murray.  (2018). Chemical and non-chemical solutions for manageing twospotted spider mite, western tarnished plant bug, and other arthropod pests in strawberries.  Insects 9: 156. DOI: 10.3390/insects9040156

Dara, S. K.  (2018). Microbial control options for pests and diseases.  CAPCA Applicator Alerts, 3 (x): x. December issue.

Geisert, R.W., Cheruiyot, D.J., Hibbard, B.E., Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Shelby, K., Coudron, T.A. (2018) Comparative assessment of four Steinernematidae and three Heterorhabditidae species for infectivity of larval Diabrotica virgifera virgifera. Journal of Economic Entomology. 111: 542–548. doi.org/10.1093/jee/tox372.

Hajek, A. E and D. I. Shapiro-Ilan (Eds.). (2018) Ecology of Invertebrate Diseases. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, 657 pp.

Hazir, S., Shapiro-Ilan, D.I., Bock, C.H., Leite, L.G., (2018) Thermo-stability, dose effects and shelf-life of antifungal metabolite-containing supernatants produced by Xenorhabdus szentirmaii. European Journal of Plant Pathology, 150: 297–306.

Karimi, J., S. K. Dara, and S. Arthurs. (2018).  Microbial insecticides in Iran: history, current status, challenges and future prospects.  J. Ivertebr. Pathol.  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2018.02.016

Kumar, K. K., J. Sridhar, R. K. Murali-Baskaran, S. Snthil-Nathan, P. Kaushal, S. K. Dara, and S. Arthurs.  (2018).  Microbial biopesticides for insect pest management in India: current status and future prospects.  J. Invertebr. Pathol.  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2018.10.008

Kumar, V., Francis, A., Avery, P.B., McKenzie, C.L., and Osborne, L.S. (2018). Assessing compatibility of Isaria fumosorosea and buprofezin for mitigation of Aleurodicus rugioperculatus (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae): an invasive pest in the Florida landscape. Economic Entomology 111: 1069-1079. 1-11. doi: 10.1093/jee/toy056

Leite, L.G., Shapiro-Ilan, D.I., Hazir, S., (2018) Survival of Steinernema feltiae in different formulation substrates:  improved longevity in a mixture of gel and vermiculite. Biological Control 126: 192-197.

Marianelli L., Paoli F., Torrini G., Mazza G., Benvenuti C., Binazzi F., Sabbatini Peverieri G., Bosio G., Venanzio D., Giacometto E., Priori S., Koppenhöfer A.M., Roversi P.F. (2018).  Biological control of Popillia japonica (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae): managing the Italian outbreak.  J. Appl. Entomol. 142, 311-318.

Mariño-Cárdenas, Y.A., Ospina OE, Rodrigues JCV, Bayman P. (2018). High diversity and variability in the bacterial microbiota of the coffee berry borer (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), with emphasis on Wolbachia. Journal of Applied Microbiology doi: 10.1111/jam.13768.

Mbata, G.N, C. Ivey, D.I. Shapiro-Ilan, (2018) The potential for using entomopathogenic nematodes and fungi in the management of the maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais (Motschulsky) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Biological Control 125: 39-43.

Oliveira-Hofman, C. (2018). Characterization of the Natural Enemy Community, With Emphasis on Entomopathogens, for Management of Western Corn Rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera). University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Dissertation.

O’Neal, M. and S. K. Dara.  (2018). Brief history of botanical and microbial pesticides and their current market.  UCANR eJournal Strawberries and Vegetables, 31 January, 2018.

O’Neal, M. and S. K. Dara.  (2018). Biopesticide development, registration, and commercial formulations.  UCANR eJournal Strawberries and Vegetables, 19 January, 2018.

Ruan, W., Shapiro-Ilan, D.I, Lewis, E.E., Kaplan, F., Alborn, H., Gu, X-H, and Schliekelman, P. (2017). Movement patterns in entomopathogenic nematodes: continuous vs. temporal. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology 151: 137-149.

Rhodes, E.M., Avery, P.B., and Liburd, O.E. (2018). Efficacy of entomopathogenic fungal products for biocontrol of spotted wing drosophila assessed under laboratory conditions. Florida Entomologist 101: 526-528.

Sánchez Barahona, C.F., Threlkeld, B.S., Avery, P. B., Francis, A.W. and Cave, R.D. (2018). Compatibility and efficacy of the ladybird beetle Thalassa montezumae and the entomopathogenic fungus Isaria fumosorosea for biological control of the green croton scale: laboratory and greenhouse investigations. Arthropod-Plant Interactions 12: 715-723.

Schmidt, J.M., Shapiro-Ilan, D.I., Graham, C., Barwick, S., Sparks, A. Jr., Riley, D. (2018). Entomopathogenic nematodes and fungi virulence to cowpea curculio (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) larvae. Journal of Entomological Science 53: 152-161.

Shrestha, G., G.V.P. Reddy and S.T. Jaronski. (2018). Field efficacy of Bacillus thuringiensis galleriae strain SDS-502 for the management of alfalfa weevil and its impact on Bathyplectes spp. parasitization rate. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology 153: 6–11.

Shrestha G, Briar SS, Reddy GVP. (2018). Plant defense elicitors: plant fitness versus wheat stem sawfly. PeerJ 6:e5892 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.5892

Singh, N. K., J. A. Goolsby, D. I. Shapiro-Ilan, R. J. Miller, D. B. Thomas, G. M Klafke, J. P. Tidwell, A. E. Racelis, P. S. Grewal, and A. A. Perez de Leon. (2018). Efficacy evaluation of six entomopathogenic nematode species against engorged females of southern cattle fever tick, Rhipicephalus (=Boophilus) microplus. Southwestern Entomologist. 43: 1-18.

Singh, N. K., J. A. Goolsby, D. I. Shapiro-Ilan, R. J. Miller, M. Setamou, and A. A. Perez de Leon. (2018). Effect of immersion time on efficacy of entomopathogenic nematodes against engorged females of southern cattle fever tick, Rhipicephalus (=Boophilus) microplus Southwestern Entomologist. 43: 19-28.

Sharifi-Far, S., D.I. Shapiro-Ilan, M. Brownbridge, and R.H. Hallett. (2018). The combined approach of strain discovery and the inbred line technique for improving control of Delia radicum with Heterorhabditis bacteriophora. Biological Control 118: 37-43.

Willett, D.S., Alborn, H.T., Stelinski, L.L., Shapiro-Ilan, D.I., (2018) Risk taking of educated nematodes. PLOS ONE, In Press (Accepted 10-3-2018).

Wu, S., Kaplan, F., Lewis, E., Alborn, H.T., Shapiro-Ilan, D.I., (2018) Infected host macerate enhances entomopathogenic nematode movement towards hosts and infectivity in a soil profile. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology. In Press (Accepted 10-14-2018).

Valles, SM, SD Porter, and LA Calcaterra. (2018). Prospecting for viral natural enemies of the fire ant Solenopsis invicta in Argentina. Plos One 13: e0192377.

Zhou Y. Avery, P.B, Carrillo, D., Duncan, R.H., Lukowsky, A., Cave, R.D., and Keyhani, N.O. (2018). Identification of the Achilles heels of the laurel wilt pathogen and its beetle vector. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology 102: 5673-5684. doi:org/10.1007/s00253-018-9037-y.