Native entomopathogenic fungi from Dutch sweet pepper greenhouses: isolation, identification and biocontrol potential

Abstract: Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) are important components of greenhouse integrated pest management (IPM) systems. This study investigated the diversity and biocontrol potential of locally isolated EPF isolated from Dutch organic sweet pepper greenhouses. A total of 46 fungal isolates were recovered from soils, plant tissues, and aphids. Morphological and molecular analyses identified Beauveria bassiana as the dominant species, together with Akanthomyces, Metarhizium, and Cordyceps species. Significant strain-dependent variation was observed in growth, sporulation, and virulence against Myzus persicae. Several local isolates showed pathogenicity comparable to commercial reference strains, highlighting the importance of local strain selection and ecological adaptation for greenhouse biological control.