Mass production of Isaria fumosorosea pfu5 for community approach management of rugose spiraling whitefly in oil palm.

The management of an alien Rugose spiraling whitefly (RSW) on oil palm using a native entomopathogenic fungus, Isaria fumosorosea pfu5 necessitated community approach for pest management. Moreover, coverage of huge leaf biomass warrants massive multiplication of biocontrol agent. In this communication, a two-step strategy, first including pure culture production and the second including ready-to-use culture production of the biocontrol agent is disclosed. The production costs and success of this technology in RSW management of oil palm are also discussed.