Metarhizium from Red Palm Weevil Rhynchophorus ferrugineus: characterization and comparison of isolates from the native area and an area of recent introduction

Rhynchophorus ferrugineus is considered the worst pest of palm species, and few natural enemies are reported for this parasite in its area of origin. Here, we report the first recovery of the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium pingshaense associated with R. ferrugineus from Vietnam. The morphological, biochemical, and toxicological features of this strain were studied and compared with those of another Metarhizium strain associated with this weevil in Sicily (Italy), an area of recent introduction. The potential use of these fungi as biocontrol agents was tested against adult insects in laboratory trials and a similar mortality rate was found. Both strains were able to produce toxins and cuticle degrading proteases, but they showed dissimilar enzymatic and toxicological profiles, suggesting a different virulence activity.