Potential of entomopathogens in biological control of the box-tree moth, Cydalima perspectalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Abstract

The box-tree moth pyralid, Cydalima perspectalis (Walker, 1859) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) is the most important insect pest of box trees. Although C. perspectalis is an invasive species, studies on the isolation, characterization and insecticidal activity of entomopathogens that cause disease in the natural populations of box tree moth are scarce. There are few studies on the entomopathogenic organisms that cause diseases in the natural populations of C. perspectalis. C. perspectalis populations can be controlled with entomopathogens such as Bacillus thuringiensis, baculoviruses, fungi and nematodes. Bacillus thuringiensis and baculoviruses are the most promisining pathogens against C. perspectalis. Investigations to find the most effective entomopathogen against C. perspectalis should be continued. This also supports the need to find its specific entomopathogens causing diseases in its natural populations. The present paper compares data on potential entomopathogens found in the literature by discussing the current situation of the damage, distribution of C. perspectalis and the effects of the entomopathogens isolated from or tested against this pest insect. Keywords: biological control, entomopathogens, box tree, Cydalima perspectalis