The use of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) for pest control is one of the key components of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) aimed to reduce the reliance of synthetic insecticides. In agricultural production systems where multiple pests coexist, growers rely on frequent release of multiple natural enemies simultaneously. However, the interaction between the microbial pest control agents like EPF and generalist predators of the major pests can influence the effectiveness of biological control programs that often complicate management strategies. In this study, was investigated the compatibility of two strains of EPF: Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) and Isaria fumosorosea Apopka strain 97 (Wize) with two commercially used predators of whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci): Delphastus catalinae (Horn) and Orius insidiosus (Say). Laboratory assays evaluating feeding rates, host preference, and survival of whitefly predators were carried out by exposing them to EPF-treated vs. untreated whiteflies, under conditions with and without alternative prey (green peach aphids, Myzus persicae [Sulz.]) and using both choice and no-choice setups. Results showed that O. insidiosus consumed more EPF infected whiteflies than D. catalinae, but they reduced survival period after feeding on prey infected with B. bassiana. In contrast, the survival and feeding behavior of D. catalinae was unaffected by both EPF treatments. Both predators preferred to predate on uninfected whiteflies over EPF-infected ones when they were given a choice. The results from this study can help the growers to refine biocontrol strategies, minimize unintended negative interactions, and improve the overall success of sustainable pest management programs involving integration EPF with whitefly predators.
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