Efficacy Test of EM and the Mixture of EM and Neem Seed Extracts on Insect Pests

Abstract

The application of EM formula Sutojoo for the control of insect pests widely distributes among farmers through extension media such as radio, television, newspaper and training workshop result in the acceptance by many farmers. It is interesting to learn whether there was any mode of action adversely affected the insects. Testing of antifeeding effect, ovipositon deterrence, and stomach poison on Helicoverpa armigera – larvae, contact poison on H. armigera, Spodoptera litura, S. exigua and repellent effect on Epilachna spp revealed that EM alone had no effect on tested insects, but when mixed with neem seed extract good efficacy on antifeeding, stomach poison and repellent effect were obtained. In accordance with the study it may conclude that EM formula Sutojoo has no place in insect control.