Field tests on the efficacy of baits based onBacillus thuringiensis and chemical insecticides against the greasy cutwormAgrotis ypsilon Rdf. in Egypt

Field tests were conducted to determine the effectiveness of wheat-brain baits based onBacillus thuringiensis var.kurstaki HD-1 (dipel 2x) compared to the organophosphorous insecticide Hostathion against the greasy cutwormAgrotis ypsilon infestations on horse bean (Vicia fabae) cultivations. Significant larval reductions were observed in all treated plots after one application with a significant increase in the yield (1.45–1.60 folds) compared to the control plots. The yield was not obviously affected by varying the dose of dipel in the bait between 150–250 g/feddan. The addition of the adjuvant potassium carbonate to the dipel bait caused a significant larval reduction, 10 days after application and showed to be as efficient as baits based on Hostathion.