Improved application and formulation of viral biopesticides against Helicoverpa

This project investigated improved formulation and delivery of nucleopolyhedroviruses (NPVs, Baculoviruses) against the pest species Helicoverpa armigera and H. punctigera in Australia. The emergence of resistance to insecticides in Helicoverpa populations severely affected the production of cotton in Australia, leading to demand for effective alternative controls as part of an integrated pest management strategy. Biological control options available to cotton growers include the use of biopesticides ‘Vivus Gold’ and ‘Gemstar’, based on nucleopolyhedroviruses (NPV) specific to Helicoverpa species. NPVs have demonstrated excellent control against multiply resistant Helicoverpa in sorghum; however results in cotton have been highly variable. The project aimed to identify factors affecting the delivery, persistence and activity of NPVs on the cotton plant so as to improve NPV performance. It tested recommendations for improved delivery and uptake of the virus spray and tested the effects of adjuvants on virus persistence and efficacy under laboratory and field conditions