1. Joseph Mburu Prof. Kimenju Dr. Dora
Assessing efficacy of localy islated entomopathogenic fungi for management of the Banana weevil (Cosmopolites sordidus)
Joseph Mburu
Prof. Kimenju
Dr. Dora

2. Objectives
Main
Assess potential of locally isolated EPF for management of banana weevil
Specific
Assess occurrence and distribution of EPF in soil sampled from banana fields in Murang’a.
Assess pathogenicity of the isolated EPF to adult weevils.

3. Studies completed isolation
Soil screening studies
30 Soil samples collected (10 farms from 3 AEZ in Murang’a).
Selective media (39g/L PDA, 0.6g/L CTAB and 0.8mg/L amoxicillin ) prepared.
Inoculation done by serial dilution.
3 replications of each soil sample.
Identification done by morphology & microscopy

4. EPF identification

5. Occurrence & Distribution of EPF
Total of 103 isolates of EPF were obtained:
43.7% - M. anisopliae , 56.3% - B. bassiana

6. Isolation (objective 1) repeated
Galleria baiting method
500 grams of each soil sample transferred to plastic bowls and moistened.
5 larvae of Galleria moth placed in depressions and covered with the soil.
Experiment being inspected daily

7. Pathogenicity (objective 2) Banana weevil trapping
Trapping uderway at UoN Kabete banana field
Split pseudostem (45cm) traps being used to attract adult weevils.
Traps being examined every day
300 weevils to be collected

8. Completion plan 1st objective: May 2013 2nd objective: June 3013
Data analysis and reporting : July 2013