NON-CONVENTIONAL PRODUCTS AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO CONTROL Dactylopius opuntiae Cockerell (HEMIPTERA: DACTYLOPIIDAE)

Abstract

Given the global threat posed by the expansion of Dactylopius opuntiae (Cockerell) and the limited options for its management, efficient and environmentally friendly tactics, which allow reducing their populations and minimizing the risk of damage, are a research priority. This study evaluated the biological effectivity of the products Axion Complete®, BIODIie®, Fitonosode, Progranic Nimicide 80® and Zote®, which were applied only once and in a targeted manner at four concentrations (1, 2, 4 and 8 %) on the mortality (%) of adult females of D. opuntiae at 1, 2, 3 and 6 days after application (DAA). The treatments, concentrations and sampling periods produced significant statistical differences on the mortality of D. opuntiae. The treatment based on Zote® soap at 4 % concentration had the most efficient control (67.2 % mortality), followed by the Axion Complete® detergent (54.4 % effectiveness) at the same concentration; the two treatments reduced population of D. opuntiae by 58 and 54.2 %, respectively, after 6 DAA. Higher concentrations (4 and 8 %) produced the highest mortality rates after 6 DAA, both with values of 50.2 %. Results suggest that both, Zote® soap and Axion Complete® detergent could potentially be used in the management of D. opuntiae due to their accessibility, economy and minimum environmental impact.