Indigenous Entomopathogenic Fungi: A Sustainable Solution for Cotton Aphid Control in India

Turning Soil Microbes into Natural Pest Fighters

Cotton, known as “white gold,” plays a vital role in India’s economy. However, cotton production faces a persistent threat from cotton aphids (Aphis gossypii)—tiny insects that cause severe crop damage and transmit viral diseases, leading to yield losses of up to 80%.

While chemical insecticides have been the go-to solution, increasing pest resistance and environmental concerns call for eco-friendly alternatives. That’s where indigenous entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) come in—naturally occurring soil fungi with the power to infect and kill crop pests.

The Study: Harnessing Native Fungi for Cotton Aphid Control

Researchers from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University collected soil samples from cotton fields across the region, isolating five strains of Beauveria bassiana, a well-known entomopathogenic fungus.

One isolate, B5, emerged as the star performer:

Achieved 96.67% aphid mortality within 7 days at optimal spore concentration
Showed rapid infection stages via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), including spore attachment, cuticle penetration, and complete fungal colonization within 72 hours
Outperformed other isolates in terms of growth rate and virulence, making it a prime candidate for biopesticide development

Why This Matters for Farmers and the Environment

Eco-Friendly Pest Management – Reduces dependence on chemical insecticides
Cost-Effective – Native strains adapt better to local conditions, cutting input costs
Sustainable Agriculture – Enhances biodiversity and soil health while controlling pests naturally

With integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, these fungi could revolutionize cotton farming by providing a chemical-free, sustainable, and effective pest control solution.

Future Outlook

Researchers recommend further field trials and biopesticide formulation studies to bring this innovation from the lab to farms. If scaled, indigenous EPF-based products could boost yields, reduce environmental harm, and improve farmer incomes.

Conclusion

The discovery of highly potent indigenous EPF strains like B5 offers hope for a greener, more sustainable future in cotton farming. With rising concerns over chemical pesticide use, these natural allies could help transform pest management practices across India.

Reference

Mariappan, K., Samuel, J. N., Uthandi, S., Sevugapperumal, N., Subbarayalu, M., & Krishnamoorthi, P. (2025). Harnessing the potential of indigenous entomopathogenic fungi isolated from the soils of Tamil Nadu, India, for the management of the cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii Glover (Hemiptera: Aphididae). Journal of Cotton Research, 8(1), 34. https://doi.org/10.1186/s42397-025-00232-2