Pathogenicity of Entomopathogenic Fungi Fusarium beomiforme against Rhipicephalus microplus Tick Infestation in Cattle

Background: Tick infestation in cattle is commonly controlled using chemical acaricides producing acaricidal resistance, environmental pollution and hazards to human health. Biological control of ticks using entomopathogenic fungi can be an alternative to chemical acaricides and can be used in conjunction with chemical control in integrated pest management. Methods: The isolation of entomopathogenic fungi was carried out from naturally infected ticks in Durg district of Chhattisgarh. The species confirmation of fungal isolates was conducted by Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using ITS gene as a molecular marker. In vitro efficacy of entomopathogenic fungi at various concentrations against engorged (adult) female ticks and unfed (Nymphs), egg laying capacity and egg hatchability of treated Rhipicephalus microplus was assessed in laboratory. Result: The entomopathogenic fungi isolated from naturally infected ticks was confirmed as Fusarium beomiforme by morpho- molecular analysis. The efficacy of F. beomiforme against adult female and nymphs of R. microplus at the concentration of n x 108 spores ml-1 showed 100% mortality. The 100% reduction of egg laying capacity of treated female ticks and no hatchability of eggs treated with F. beomiforme at the concentration of n x 107 spores ml-1 and n x 108 spores ml-1 was observed.