Research Article
Histopathological Effects of the Entomopathogenic Fungus Metarhizium anisopliae (Metschnikoff, Sorokin) on Adults of Rastrococcus invadens, (Williams, 1986)
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
96-101
Received:
27 July 2025
Accepted:
7 August 2025
Published:
26 August 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajbio.20251304.11
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Abstract: The mealybug (Rastrococcus invadens), is a major pest of mango trees, causes extensive damage and significant yield losses in Senegal. The control methods used seem less effective. Mechanical control is the most widely used method in some regions of Senegal. However, the use of natural products has shown promising potential. The aim of this study was to investigate the pathogenicity of Metarahizium anisoliae on adults mealybugs (Rastrococcus invadens) and to assess the resulting histological damage. Under laboratory conditions (75% relative humidity and 27°C), we tested oil-based formulations of Metarhizium anisopliae conidia at doses of 103, 104, 105, 106, and 107 spores/ml to mango leaf discs infested with adult Rastrococcus invadens. Treated insects were examined using optical microscopy with histological techniques to observe tissue damage. The results revealed that mortality rates were higher 48 hours after application, with respective rates of 37.4±8.8%, 58.6±5.22%, 75.45±5.28%, 92.35±1.69%, and 100±0.01% compared to the control group at 2.4±1.2%. Histological sections showed a progressive invasion of fungal spores through the cuticle, leading to the destruction of fatty tissues, muscles, and wax glands, followed by internal proliferation. These findings suggest that entomopathogenic fungi such as M. anisopliae can be used and popularized as biopesticides in the management of R. invadens.
Abstract: The mealybug (Rastrococcus invadens), is a major pest of mango trees, causes extensive damage and significant yield losses in Senegal. The control methods used seem less effective. Mechanical control is the most widely used method in some regions of Senegal. However, the use of natural products has shown promising potential. The aim of this study w...
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Research Article
Some Locally Fermented Milk Products Sold in Onitsha Main Market and Their Bacteriological Analysis
Osuji Malachy Ikeokwu*
,
Nkwonta Rosemary Celestine
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
102-107
Received:
21 May 2025
Accepted:
5 June 2025
Published:
27 August 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajbio.20251304.12
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Abstract: This research was done to unveil the bacteria associated with three locally sourced fermented milk product sold at Onitsha main market in Anambra state in the South-East of Nigeria. The three locally sourced samples include; Nono, Soybean and Yoghurt. They were obtained aseptically from three different hawkers one for each. Ten-fold serial dilution was done while spread plate technique was adopted. After the inoculation of the second, forth and six diluents followed by 24 hours incubation. The some of the results obtained include; 6.0 x 104, 2.0 x 104 and 1.0 104 for NONO corresponding to nutrient agar, MaConkey and SS agar plate. For the Soybean sample, 4.0 x 104, 1.2 x 104 and 1.0 x 104 corresponding to nutrient agar, MaConkey and SS agar plate. Finally, 5.0 x 104, 1, 5 x 104 corresponding to nutrient agar, MaConkey agar plate. No growth was observed for SS agar. Streaking method was used for purification and isolates were stored in agar slants. Biochemical identification tests done revealed possible organisms like; Kebsiella spp, Bacillus spp, Salmonella spp, Escherichia coli, Shigella sp, Lactobacillussp, Vibrio sp. Further visit to the production and processing place of NONO by the research team revealed why it was more contaminated than other samples. Government should assist the locals to maintain good sanitary condition of the place or outright closure.
Abstract: This research was done to unveil the bacteria associated with three locally sourced fermented milk product sold at Onitsha main market in Anambra state in the South-East of Nigeria. The three locally sourced samples include; Nono, Soybean and Yoghurt. They were obtained aseptically from three different hawkers one for each. Ten-fold serial dilution...
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