Evaluation of fungal product; Green Muscle (Metarhisium anisopliae var. acridum) to control saxaul grasshopper, Dericorys albidula (Serv.) in Iran

Haloxylon spp. as a resistant species against dry and desert conditions of Iran has been widely used for sand dune fixation since 1965. Haloxylon plantation areas are estimated more than 1.5 millions hec. Dericorys albidula is a monophagus pest inflicting considerable damage to the forests every year. Application of chemical compounds in forest and range areas has largely criticized in terms of environmental conditions, therefore, Green Muscle (BCP Co. S. Africa) as a biological product (conidia of Metarhisium anisopliae var acridum) were used at the rate of 50 g/hec. to control Dericorys albidula nymphs. during 2 years (2010 and 2011). Two field experiments (screen cages) were conducted in a randomized complete design with 4 and 5 replications in Abuzeid Abad, Kashan and Hossein Abad, Qom respectively ULV and electrostatic sprayers were used with. diesel fuel as carrier was used. Results showed that treatments were statistically different at 0.01% level. Sprayers were not significantly different. Maximum mortality rate (98%) was observed in ULV sprayer and second year, while least mortality rate (92%) was in electrostatic sprayer and in the first year. Thus, taking into account Green Muscles great efficacy and specificity, it exhibit high potential as a selective material against grasshoppers in saxaul plantations.