Beauveria bassiana fungal biocontrol for sustainable rice pest management

Overview

This research initiative explores the use of Beauveria bassiana (Bb), a well-characterized entomopathogenic fungus, as a biological control agent for managing above-ground insect pests in rice production. The solution targets three economically important pests: rice stink bugs (RSB), stem borers (SBs), and rice water weevil (RWW). By replacing or reducing chemical insecticide applications with a fungal biocontrol agent, the approach aims to protect crop yields while safeguarding soil quality and minimizing non-target ecological impacts.

The value proposition centers on sustainability and integrated pest management. Continuous reliance on chemical pesticides can degrade soil health and harm beneficial organisms. A fungal-based biocontrol offers a dual benefit: effective pest suppression and preservation of the soil ecosystem. This positions the solution as a practical option for rice growers seeking environmentally responsible pest management strategies.

Technical specifications

Target pests:

• Rice stink bugs (RSB)
• Stem borers (SBs)
• Rice water weevil (RWW)

Biocontrol agent: Beauveria bassiana, an entomopathogenic fungus with demonstrated broad-spectrum insecticidal activity and minimal non-target effects.

Greenhouse assay design:

• Five treatments including three application rates of Bb, a positive control, and a negative control
• Four replications with three repeats per treatment
• Cage studies conducted separately for each pest species (SBs, RSB, and RWW adults)
• Insects exposed to potted rice plants for at least 10 days
• Assessment of insect mortality at multiple time points post-treatment

Field assay design:

• Two field locations using randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications per treatment
• Treatment rates informed by greenhouse results, with positive and negative controls
• Pest population monitoring via sweep net sampling
• Damage assessment at seedling, tillering, booting, and dough growth stages
• Grain yield measurement at harvest

Technology readiness level

The research is at an early-to-mid stage of development. Prior studies have demonstrated the efficacy of Beauveria bassiana against other insect pests, such as cotton bollworm, providing a scientific basis for extending its application to rice systems. The current project has not yet been evaluated against rice pests in the USA, and validation through controlled greenhouse and field assays is the immediate next step. The initial study is planned as a one-year effort with the potential for a two-to-three year extension to refine application rates, confirm field efficacy, and assess integration into broader rice pest management programs.