House fly (Musca domestica) (Diptera: Muscidae) mortality after exposure to commercial fungal formulations in a sugar bait^†

† This article reports the results of research only. Mention of a proprietary product does not constitute an endorsement or a recommendation by the USDA for its use. The USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

ABSTRACT

House flies are pests of medical and veterinary importance. They are known to be susceptible to fungal conidia presented in sugar baits. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential for commercial formulations of entomopathogenic fungi to be used as bait for fly control. Differences in sporulation by product were found. Current formulations may influence fly feeding on baits, but because formulations may protect conidia. Additional research into more attractive formulations is warranted.

KEYWORDS:

• Beauveria bassiana
• Metarhizium anisopliae
• entomopathogenic
• biological control
• organic

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Dana Pippin for her assistance in house fly rearing.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes

† This article reports the results of research only. Mention of a proprietary product does not constitute an endorsement or a recommendation by the USDA for its use. The USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.