Study on the Possibility of Integrating a Bacterial Based Insecticide, Emamectin Benzoate (Proclaim 1.9-EC) in the Management Strategy of Lepidoptera Pest Complex

Study on the possibility of integrating a bacterial based insecticide, emamectin benzoate (Proclaim 1.9-EC) in the management strategy of Lepidoptera pest complex (Minia University- Egypt)

Sanaa A. Ibrahim, Abdelrahman M. Younis and Ali M. Ali

Abstract:  Semi-field and field studies were undertaken during 2013 and 2014 cotton seasons to evaluate the commercial product from emamectin benzoate (Proclaim 1.9-EC)) against 4^th instar larvae from a field collected cotton leafworm, Spodoptera littoralis (Boisduval).  The possible inhibitory effect on predatory populations was also of great interest.  Data revealed that, this product gave 100% initial mortality within the first 48 hr after application even when half of the recommended rate was used.  Residual performance of this insecticide slightly enhanced as the rate of application increased.  However, emamectin benzoate completely lost its toxic residues after one week of field application even when 200% of the recommended field rate was used.  Another advantage is its compatibility with predator population.  The only negative impact appeared one day after treatment; however predator population backed to their normal abundance within 48hr post application. Based on these data we suggest using this chemical to control Lepidoptera pests on vegetables to reduce the pre-harvest period, make these crops edible for human use shortly after treatment and also to preserve beneficial arthropods.