Application of green fungi in controlling brown planthoppers.

Currently, the use of chemical pesticides to control pests and diseases is very common. Besides protecting crops, the overuse of pesticides leads to increasing environmental pollution, significantly impacts human health, and also creates conditions for pests and diseases to develop resistance to pesticides.

In recent years, many studies have applied biological preparations, specifically the green fungus (Metarhizium anisopliae), to control brown planthopper in rice with high effectiveness. This is a solution to limit environmental pollution, preserve rare natural enemies in the fields, and contribute to the production of clean rice.

Based on the above benefits, the Long An agricultural sector researched and implemented the project: "Transfer of technology for the production of green fungus (Metarlizium anisopliae) and application of green fungus products to manage brown planthopper in rice in Long An province" from March 2012 to August 2013. This project was carried out on 70 hectares in 7 districts of the province: Tan Hung, Vinh Hung, Duc Hoa, Duc Hue, Tan Tru, Chau Thanh, and Thu Thua.

Following the implementation of green fungus for controlling brown planthopper in rice crops in Vinh Hung district, on July 17, 2013, the Long An Agricultural Extension Center organized a workshop on the use of green fungus to manage brown planthopper in rice crops at the home of Mr. Ly Van Chau, Choi Moi hamlet, Tuyen Binh commune, Vinh Hung district.

Initially, the households participating in the project were hesitant because it was their first time using green fungi and they were accustomed to using chemical pesticides. In addition, chemical pesticides usually kill aphids immediately, while with green fungi, the effects only become apparent after some time.

However, practical results from using green fungus show that the fungus grows well, parasitizes, and effectively damages brown planthoppers. After the rice crop, initial estimates indicate that using green fungus to control brown planthoppers saved between 380,000 and 1,050,000 VND/ha in pesticide spraying costs compared to using chemical pesticides in the 2013 summer-autumn crop.

According to recommendations from the Long An Agricultural Extension Center, to achieve high effectiveness when using green fungus to control brown planthoppers, farmers should note the following: Before spraying, mix the green fungus with an adhesive agent; spray in the cool afternoon or early morning; do not mix with other fungicides; and observe a 5-7 day waiting period before using other fungicides.

This result has helped farmers overcome their concerns about the effectiveness of green fungi in controlling brown planthoppers, and more importantly, it has reduced costs, limited environmental pollution, and created safe rice products.

According to (NNVN) - LC