Nanoparticle Based Liquid Formulation of Metarhizium pingshaense

An eco-friendly technology for managing Conogethes punctiferalis, a major pest of spice crops such as ginger, turmeric, and cardamom, has been developed using a naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium pingshaense. The technology involves spraying M. pingshaense at a concentration of 1 × 10⁷ conidia/mL, starting from the second fortnight of July (or 45 days after planting) until the first fortnight of November, at 21-day intervals.

In addition to its insecticidal action, the fungus promotes plant growth and is an effective solubilizer of zinc. It is also effective against other crambid pests affecting crops such as rice, sorghum, vegetables, and sugarcane.