20 research outputs found
Not Available
Not AvailableA microbial pathogen, Bacillus cereus strain WGPSB-2 isolated from mid hills of Uttarakhand
Himalayas (1000-1500 amsl) had potential as a biocontrol agent against white grubs of the region. Thus,
the pathogen’s ability to suppress grubs was investigated under field conditions over a period of five
years in five villages of the region. A single dose annual application of WGPSB-2 as talc based
formulation (1x1010 spores/g) at the rate of 5kg/ha showed a sharp decline in grub population over the
years in all the targeted villages. Pit sampling data showed maximum grub reduction during initial years
of treatment in all villages and found significant for time, villages and time X village interactions in
repeated measures ANOVA. Twenty four months post-inoculation resilience took place in micropits
tested for bioagent impact on micro-floral densities, resulting in similar/ positive structures of tested
microbial populations. The substantial numerical reduction of grub density coupled with no negative
impacts on soil inhabitant microbiota, signifies WGPSB-2 as a vibrant technological option in this
ecologically sensitive region.Not Availabl