Efficacy of nano-formulated azadirachtin in controlling green peach aphid (Myzus persicae)

The green peach aphid, Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), is one of the most important insects in agriculture due to its high plant virus transmission efficiency. This insect is resistant to many insecticides and alternative control methods are needed. Nanoparticles themselves are promising alternatives for controlling pests. In addition to having insecticidal abilities, nanoparticles can be used to entrap photolabile insecticides, allowing for slow release and protecting from UV degradation. Azadirachtin has the potential to be used as antifeedant and to control insect growth with low residual and low toxicity but breaks down quickly in the field. Therefore, we conducted experiments to test the efficacy of nano-formulated azadiratchin in controlling M. persicae and tested its ability to alter probing behaviors related to plant virus transmission. Using Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa)  as a model plant system, nano-azadirachtin at different rates was applied and 4 and 24 hrs mortality recorded. In addition, 30 min probing behaviors were recorded using EPG. This study will begin to provide insight into utilizing nanoparticles with entrapped insecticides to control target pest in the field.