''Nosema locustae'' is a

microsporidium Microsporidia are a group of spore-forming unicellular parasites. These spores contain an extrusion apparatus that has a coiled polar tube ending in an anchoring disc at the apical part of the spore. They were once considered protozoans or pro ...

fungus A fungus (plural, : fungi or funguses) is any member of the group of Eukaryote, eukaryotic organisms that includes microorganisms such as yeasts and Mold (fungus), molds, as well as the more familiar mushrooms. These organisms are classified ...

that is used to kill grasshoppers, caterpillars, some corn borers and crickets.

Effects on grasshoppers

When consumed, ''N. locustae'' affects the digestive system of a grasshopper through a buildup in the gut, eventually killing it by creating lethargy and a lack of appetite; it is also transferable from a deceased infected grasshopper that is consumed. In a study done at

Linköping University Linköping University (, LiU) is a public research university based in Linköping, Sweden. Originally established in 1969, it was granted full university status in 1975 and is one of Sweden's largest academic institutions. The university has fo ...

using ''N. locustae'' and a central

Ethiopian Ethiopians are the native inhabitants of Ethiopia, as well as the global diaspora of Ethiopia. Ethiopians constitute several component ethnic groups, many of which are closely related to ethnic groups in neighboring Eritrea and other parts of ...

grasshopper species, 55% of the grasshoppers that were not inoculated reached adulthood, while only 19% of the ones that were inoculated did.

Farm Application

The spores are typically applied to a carrier, usually wheat bran, and can be spread through the use of a variety of devices. Typical application is one pound per acre, at a rate of 1 billion plus spores.

References

{{Taxonbar, from=Q7061774 Fungal pest control agents Biological control agents of pest insects Microsporidia Fungi described in 1953 Fungus species