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Insect pathogenic fungi and bed bugs: behaviour, horizontal transfer and the potential contribution to IPM solutions

Anders Aak1, Morten Hage1, Bjørn Arne Rukke1

  • 1Department of Pest Control, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Lovisenberggata 8, Postboks 4404, 0456 Nydalen, Oslo, Norway.

Journal of Pest Science
|March 24, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Beauveria bassiana fungus effectively controls bed bugs. This entomopathogenic fungus can be transferred between bed bugs, targeting hidden individuals and aiding integrated pest management strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Entomology
  • Pest Management
  • Microbial Control

Background:

  • Bed bug infestations are a growing global concern, necessitating novel control methods.
  • Insect pathogenic fungi offer a promising avenue for integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of three insect pathogenic fungi against the common bed bug, Cimex lectularius.
  • To investigate the virulence, formulation effects, and transmission dynamics of effective fungal agents.

Main Methods:

  • Laboratory bioassays were conducted using Isaria fumosoroseus, Lecanicillium muscarium, and Beauveria bassiana against bed bugs.
  • Virulence, dose-dependency, formulation effects (oil-based), and horizontal transfer were assessed in arena bioassays.
  • Bed bug behavior, including activity patterns and response to CO2, infection, and aggregation, was observed.

Main Results:

  • Only Beauveria bassiana demonstrated significant virulence against bed bugs, with efficacy dependent on dose and formulation.
  • A 2% B. bassiana oil formulation facilitated horizontal transfer, increasing mortality, primarily between adult bed bugs.
  • Increased fungal dose or CO2 levels did not enhance mortality; higher infection levels increased bed bug movement, potentially hindering transfer.

Conclusions:

  • Beauveria bassiana is a viable biological control agent for bed bugs, capable of self-dissemination within a population.
  • Fungal bio-pesticides, particularly B. bassiana, warrant further investigation as a component of sustainable bed bug management programs.
Keywords:
ActivityAggregationBeauveria bassianaCimex lectulariusHorizontal transferIntegrated pest management (IPM)

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