Biocontrol Science and Technology (1999) 9, 35-51

A. Cherry, N. Jenkins, G. Heviefo, R.P. Bateman and C. Lomer (1999)
Operational and economic analysis of a West African pilotscale production plant for aerial conidia of Metarhizium spp. for use as a mycoinsecticide against locusts and grasshoppers
Biocontrol Science and Technology 9 (1), 35-51
Abstract: Aerial conidia of Metarhizium anisopliae (flavoviride) var. acridum strain IMI 330189 used for inundative biological control of grasshoppers and locusts in sub-Saharan Africa are produced in a purpose-built facility at IITA Benin using a standard two stage mass production system. Yields average 31.1 gm dry conidia powder per kg rice substrate, production capacity is 300-350 kg conidia per year and production costs are estimated at $21 per 100 gm (the recommended dose for 1 ha). Production process parameters vary within narrow limits established during optimisation but yield is characterised by a high level of variation over time. Variation in incubation period and temperature are identified as key factors, although they account for less than 40% of yield variation. Conidial viability and contamination are correlated with several parameters but none can adequately explain variation. Handling time, a principal limiting factor could be reduced by increasing substrate quantity per unit of production. An awareness of these factors presents the opportunity to fine tune production although options for increasing or improving production efficiency are limited within the constraints of the system.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Andrew J. Cherry, Roy Bateman, Nina E. Jenkins, Chris J. Lomer

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
biocontrol - natural enemies
Research topic(s) for beneficials or antagonists:
rearing/culturing/mass production

---

Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
Metarhizium acridum (entomopathogen)			Benin