Compatibility of entomopathogenic fungus, Isaria fumosorosea, and the aphid parasitoid, Lysiphlebus testaceipes, compatibility for managing infestations of brown citrus aphid, Toxoptera citricida

In Florida, the continual use of broad spectrum chemical insecticides has concerned growers in the citrus industry since “green” produce is viewed as healthier and more desirable for the consumer. Bio-insecticides, such as PFR 97 (Isaria fumosoroseus [Ifr]) may offer an alternative to growers, and minimize ecological impact on non-target organisms. The tritrophic interactions of I. fumosoroseus (Wize), L. testaceipes (Cresson), and T. citricida (Kirkaldy) were assessed on citrus seedlings under caged conditions to determine if Ifr was compatible with parasitoid survival. The parasitoid alone and in combination with Ifr reduced aphids better than fungus alone compared to controls, for the duration of both experiments. The compatibility of Ifr and L. testaceipes demonstrated potential for use in an integrated pest management approach to managing the brown citrus aphid.