Effect of antagonistic bacteria on Dactylopius opuntiae (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae)

Cactus pear has important economic roles in Morocco as a source of food, animal feed, and income for rural populations. However, this crop is currently suffering from the attack of the wild cochineal Dactylopius opuntiae (Cockerell), which has caused huge production losses. A range of insecticides are widely used to control D. opuntia and other scale insects worldwide. However, the problems associated with the harmful effects of pesticides on humans, the environment and non-target organisms, require that alternative options should be developed for the eco-friendly control of D. opuntiae. This study aims to evaluate the potential of three rhizospheric bacteria in controlling D. opuntiae, from which two isolates have a notable impact on both nymphs and adult females. Particularly, isolate TRD16 caused 80% mortality against nymphs, while BRS35 and ZTRS2 show 97% and 84% pathogenicity, respectively, against adult females.