Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2026
Comparison of Methods for Isolating Entomopathogenic Fungi from Soil Samples
Published on: January 6, 2022
[Isolation and identification of Metarhizium from Citrus grandis 'tomentosa' GAP base]
Weisi Ma1, Jiang Xu, Haili Qiao
1The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China.
Abstract:
A type of entomopathogenic fungus of soil in Citrus grandis 'tomentosa' production base was isolated and identified with morphological and molecular biological methods, including pathogenesis, spore characteristic and ITS sequence analysis were conducted. The results showed that eighteen entomopathogenic fungi strains were isolated from the Tenebrio molitor infected in the soil samples, which were identified as Metarhizium anisopliae var. anisopliae. Based on results above, we concluded that there was quantity of Metarhizium resources in this area. These provided the useful information for controlling some pests of C. grandis by using these strains of fungus.
Insights
Entomopathogenic fungi, Metarhizium anisopliae var. anisopliae, were identified in Citrus grandis soil. These findings offer potential for biological pest control in citrus orchards.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Mycology
- Entomology
Background:
- Citrus grandis 'tomentosa' production relies on effective pest management strategies.
- Entomopathogenic fungi offer a promising avenue for biological control of insect pests.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and identify entomopathogenic fungi from soil in Citrus grandis 'tomentosa' cultivation areas.
- To evaluate the potential of identified fungal strains for pest control applications.
Main Methods:
- Morphological and molecular biological techniques were employed for fungal identification.
- Pathogenesis assays and spore characteristic analyses were conducted.
- Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) sequence analysis was performed for precise identification.
Main Results:
- Eighteen entomopathogenic fungal strains were isolated from soil samples.
- All isolated strains were identified as Metarhizium anisopliae var. anisopliae.
- The study confirmed the presence of significant Metarhizium resources in the study area.
Conclusions:
- The identified Metarhizium anisopliae var. anisopliae strains represent a valuable resource for biological pest control.
- This research provides crucial data for developing integrated pest management programs in Citrus grandis orchards.
- The findings support the use of native entomopathogenic fungi for sustainable agriculture.
