Comparative Efficacy and Phytotoxicity Evaluation of Biopesticides, Insecticides and Neem Formulation against Leaf Folder (Cnaphlocrocis Medinalis Guenee) on Paddy

Effort were taken to compare the efficacy and phytotoxicity of bioagent B.bassiana Neem formulation and insecticide. Out of six treatment Monocrotophos 36 per cent SL @ 625 ml/ha and Beauveria bassiana 1.15 per cent WP (1x10⁸ cfu/g min.) treatments @ 3000 and 2500 g/ha were effective to reducing leaf folder larval population on paddy crop and to increase the grain yield. All the treatments were non-phytotoxic to paddy crop and non-toxic to natural enemies in both the year. Beauveria bassiana 1.15 per cent WP applied @ 2500 g/ha dose was optimum to control leaf folder and to increase the yield. Based on the results of bioefficacy and grain yield, use of Beauveria bassiana 1.15 per cent WP @ 2500 g/ha is suggested for the effective management of leaf folder larvae on paddy crop.