Studies on the Level of Efficiency of Bio-products against Fall Army Worm (Spodoptera frugiperda) and Maize Weevils (Sitophilus zeamais), IN Eritrea

Abstract

A laboratory experiment was conducted at Hamelmalo Agricultural College to isolate Trichoderma spp. (Entomopathogenic Fungi – EPF) from various soil types and evaluate their bio-efficacy alongside botanical extracts (5% and 10% of neem seed kernel, tobacco, and Lantana leaves) against Spodoptera frugiperda (Fall Armyworm-FAW) and Sitophilus zeamais (maize weevil). Soil samples from humus-rich, orchard, cultivated, and forest areas were used for fungal isolation. The study assessed mortality and repellence effects of treatments. Neem extract (NSKE) caused the highest larval mortality in FAW, followed by Tricho-1, though all treatments were statistically at par at a 5% significance level. Tobacco extract showed significant lethality to maize weevil at 5% concentration in both topical and seed dressing applications. Lantana extract demonstrated the highest repellence effect, which was statistically significant at 5%. All soil sources yielded Trichoderma spp., with Tricho-1 showing better persistence under sunlight than Tricho-2. The EPF isolates also exhibited lethal effects on the maize weevil at parental and 10² concentrations. The findings support the potential of EPF and botanicals as eco-friendly pest management alternatives.