The entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria brongniartii (Sacc.) Petch and experiences in its use for biological control of the European field and forest cockchafer

摘要

The entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria brongniartii is an important antagonist of the European field and forest cockchafer, Melolontha melolontha and M. hippocastani, respectively, and their larvae. In the past, the fungus was often used for biological control of both Melolontha spp. In connection with heavy outbreaks of these pest insects in Germany, the use of B. brongniartii for biological control is discussed again. An overview is given of the taxonomy and morphology of the fungus, its ecology and relationship to Melolontha spp., and the occurrence in cockchafer populations and the known effects on non-target species are discussed. Furthermore, experiences are reported on the practical use of B. brongniartii during the past 100 years in the biological control of the two European cockchafer species and their larvae in France, Poland, Switzerland, Italy (South Tyrol) and Germany.