Abstract

RODRIGUEZ, Mayra G et al. Impact of entomopathogenic nematode applications on diamond back moth population. Rev. Protección Veg. [online]. 2013, vol.28, n.2, pp. 158-160. ISSN 1010-2752.

The aim of this work was to determine the impact of entomopathogenic nematode (EPN) applications on diamond-back moth (DBM) populations and cabbage (Brassica oleraceaL.) yields in a farm of the western region of Cuba. The experiment was carried out in «Doña Amalia» Farm in the western Province of Mayabeque (Cuba). Two treatments were used: EPN (Heterorhabditis bacteriophora Pionar strain HC1) and chemical control (Clorpirifos (0,48-0,72kg ai.ha^-1), both applied weekly. Each week, the DBM larvae population was evaluated. At the final of the crop, ten plants were randomly harvested from each experimental plot and the head fresh weight determined; the final yields (in t.ha^-1) were calculated by the farmers. The infestation Index (referred as the mean numbers of DBM larvae for two different treatments: EPN and Chemical) over time showed statistic differences, with a low population in the biological treatment, from 0,4 larvae.plant^-1 at the beginning of the experiment to 0,1 larvae.plant^-1 at the end, meanwhile, in the chemical treatment, the population increased up to 0,88 larvae.plant^-1, with a very high damaged crop. The head fresh weight was statistically higher in the biological treatment than in the chemical one. The total volume of production in both experimental block were 7,02t in the EPN treatment and 6,7t in the chemical block, which corresponded to 26t.ha^-1 and 16,75t.ha^-1, respectively. The results confirmed the potentialities of EPN in DBM management in Cuba.

Keywords : Heterorhabditis bacteriophora; Plutella xylostella; Brassica oleracea.

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