The effect of UV radiation on the conidia of some native fungal strains formulated with vegetable oils

Abstract

To protect crops, farmers are increasingly resorting to chemical control of insects. However, chemicals not only destroy harmful insects but also have significant environmental consequences, such as inducing resistance or harmful effects on non-target organisms. Additionally, their ability to penetrate and accumulate in plant organs can drastically reduce crop quality. All these concerns have led to the search for natural remedies, such as entomopathogenic fungi, recognized as promising biological control agents due to their proven efficacy against various insect pests. They are naturally found in the soil, are widespread across different climatic regions, and have the capacity to produce epizootics. In addition, biopesticides based on native strains of entomopathogenic fungi present several advantages over the use of chemicals. These strains are better adapted to environmental conditions, and local production would be beneficial for farmers, as they can always have access to these products. However, their use as biological control agents is hampered by physical factors, with solar radiation being one of the most destructive ones. This problem can be solved by adding protective substances to the biopreparation formula, such as optical brighteners, like Tinopal, sunscreens, and natural additives, such as vegetable oils, teas, or humic acids.