Metarhizium spp.
Metarhizium
Metarhizium spp. — Soil-Dwelling Entomopathogen
Metarhizium is an important entomopathogenic fungus genus, especially effective against soil pests and coleopteran larvae. Conidia penetrate the insect cuticle, proliferate in the hemocoel, and cause green muscardine death.
Mechanisms of Action
Spore Adhesion
Conidia bind to insect cuticle wax layers via hydrophobins for initial colonization.
Cuticle Penetration
Secretes chitinases and proteases to degrade the cuticle and invade the hemocoel.
Hemocoel Proliferation
Rapid growth in hemolymph, consuming nutrients and secreting toxins until host death.
Population Regulation
Dead insects release new spores into soil, creating a continuous suppression cycle.
Product Specifications
Application Methods
Soil incorporation: 1-2kg granules per mu, mixed with organic fertilizer and tilled in
Root zone drench: Dilute 500-800x, apply along root furrows for soil pests
Seed treatment: Mix at 1:50 ratio with seeds against wireworms and grubs
Attract-and-kill piles: Mix with bran carrier to trap scarab beetles and other adults
Target Pests
Grubs, wireworms, mole crickets, cutworms, flea beetles, weevils, locusts, tea leafhoppers, pine caterpillars, and more