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Abstract
Kaolin-based particle film has been developed in the United States for use in agriculture as crop protectant. This work is aimed to determine the optimal kaolin concentration for use against Aphis gossypii, the most damaging sucking insect of cotton in Benin, West Africa. Following kaolin concentrations have been tested in four different experiments: 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6% and 8%. The effect of kaolin is tested by recording the population dynamics of A. gossypii on cotton after spraying. Results showed that the solution containing 5% of kaolin has significantly reduced aphids' number. This concentration corresponds to a maximum of 18 kg of kaolin per hectare for the entire season when ultra low volume sprayer is used. Higher kaolin concentrations have left a large deposit of kaolin particle on cotton leaves thus handicapping chlorophyll synthesis and the proper growth and development of the plants. To obtain encouraging results, an adequate application method that provides a full and continuous coverage of the plants with kaolin particle film should be used. We suggest conducting trials on this product in practical cotton production conditions in West Africa to assess its potentiality as integrated pest management (IPM) component.
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Acknowledgements
This study was funded by the International Foundation for Science (IFS). Kaolin was kindly supplied by Engelhard Corporation, USA. The assistance of Prof. em. H. Bochow is appreciated.
