Efficacy of biopesticides against Scaphoides titanus Ball in different experimental conditions

Abstract: The Scaphoideus titanus Ball is the vector of Candidatus Phytoplasma vitis, the causal agent of the Flavescence dorée (FD). In the grape-growing areas where FD is present, insecticide treatments against the vector are compulsory. The Directive 2009/128/EC, establishing a framework for Community action to achieve the sustainable use of pesticides, encouraging the use of alternatives to chemical insecticides. The aim of this work was to study the efficacy of azadirachtin, Beauveria bassiana, pyrethrum and spinosad against S. titanus Ball in different experimental conditions. The results showed an efficacy against young stage and adults of Beauveria bassiana and spinosad both in field condition and in the semi-field trials. Generally for all insecticides, the effect was higher in topical plus residual exposure compare to residual exposure only. Implication for S. titanus control of the use of microbial and botanical insecticides are discussed.