Efficacy of an entomopathogenic fungus, Isaria fumosorosea, and an insect growth regulator against the rugose spiraling whitefly, Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)

Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin, infamous as gumbo limbo or rugose spiraling whitefly is a new addition in the list of devastating whitefly species found in Florida. It is a newly introduced pest of Central American origin, reported first time in Florida from Miami-Dade County in 2009. Since then, its distribution range is increasing and now it has been reported causing damage to ornamental plant hosts in at least 10 counties of Florida. Feeding damage caused by this pest not only brings its host under stress, but the massive production of wax and honeydew promoting the growth of fungus sooty mold, is causing a nuisance for homeowners and property managers in the infested region. The pathogenicity of a naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus, Isaria fumosorosea (Preferal^®) is well known for its activity against commonly found whiteflies species in Florida. In the current study, we tested the efficacy of this entomopathogenic fungus alone and in combination with an insect growth regulator (Talus^®) against the rugose spiraling whitefly under optimum laboratory conditions. Results from this study will be significant for the development of a biocontrol strategy against this serious invasive pest of palm, gumbo limbo and white bird of paradise etc. present in Florida.