Bioinputs from Efficient Microorganisms in Controlling Pests of Ecuadorian Livestock Farming

Abstract

The use of chemical synthesis products for the control of agricultural and livestock diseases has affected the ecological balance of microorganisms and the environment. Also, it has affected the health of livestock farmers and consumers. Worldwide, between 70 and 80 % of cattle are found in tropical and subtropical areas, with ideal climatic factors for the activation of ticks throughout the year. A bovine infested by an adult female tick loses around 0.26 kg of weight/tick/year, causing annual losses of between 11 and 14%. In addition, 10 % of insect species are agricultural, forestry and urban pests, responsible for destroying areas of crops. The Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo has developed bioinputs based on entomopathogenic microorganisms using isolation, identification, production and infection techniques in the laboratory and in the field. The tests presented results between 70 and 100 % effective in the control of these agricultural pests. The entomopathogenic fungi studied has potential as biological control agents for managing tick infestations in cattle; as the concentration of the bioformulations increases, an increase in the percentage of tick mortality is observed.