Multiplex Metarhizium Biopesticide – Biological pest control agent

About Multiplex Metarhizium

Multiplex Metarhizium (Metarhizium anisopliae 2.0% WP) by Multiplex is a bio-pesticide used for controlling a wide range of insect pests, commonly known as the green muscardine fungus. It effectively controls root grubs, white flies, aphids, mealy bugs, plant hoppers, Japanese beetle, spittlebug, white grubs and larvae of lepidopteran insects, among more than 300 recorded insect species, in crops such as sugarcane, rice, pulses, vegetables, fruit crops, cereals, oil crops, orchards, fibre crops, cut flowers and ornamentals. By producing mycotoxins, including destruxin E, that stop feeding and paralyze the host insect, Metarhizium helps bring down pest populations while supporting toxin-free food production. It works by infecting the insect through germinating spores and is suitable for soil application, foliar spray or nursery drenching in recommended crops.

Multiplex Metarhizium Technical Composition

Strain: NBAIR-Ma4, Accession No. NAIMCC-F-01296

CFU Count: 1 x 10⁸ CFU/gm min (carrier/powder based); 1 x 10⁸ CFU/ml min (liquid based)

Mode of Action

On contact with the insect body, the infective spores of Metarhizium anisopliae germinate, and the germ tube penetrates directly into the body of the host insect. Once inside, the fungus proliferates throughout the insect's body fluid and produces toxin metabolites that stop the insect's feeding and slowly paralyze and kill it, a process that takes about 4 to 5 days. Once the insect is killed, its body hardens, and the fungus grows through the softer parts of the cuticle, covering it with a thin layer of green mold, known as Green Muscardine disease.

Key Features and Benefits of Multiplex Metarhizium

• Broad-spectrum insect control: Recorded on more than 300 insect species, including root grubs, white flies, aphids, mealy bugs, plant hoppers, Japanese beetle, spittlebug, white grubs and larvae of lepidopteran insects.
• Produces insecticidal mycotoxins: Produces several secondary metabolites that act as mycotoxins, including destruxin E, considered a next-generation insecticide against pests like aphids, moths and larvae.
• Compatible with other bio-inputs: Compatible with bio-pesticides and botanical insecticides.
• Supports toxin-free produce: Helps in the production of toxic-free food.

Multiplex Metarhizium Dosage and Recommended Crops

Method of Application

• Soil Application: Mix 5 kg (powder) or 2 litres (liquid) of Multiplex Metarhizium thoroughly with 250 kg of FYM in a shaded area and incubate for 15 days with intermittent sprinkling of water. After 15 days, use the fungus-enriched farmyard manure as a soil application.
• Foliar Spray: Mix 5 gm (powder) or 2 to 3 ml (liquid) of Metarhizium in one litre of water and spray the suspension over the plant, 2 to 3 times at 15-day intervals.
• Nursery: Dissolve 3 gm (powder) or 1 ml (liquid) of Metarhizium in one litre of water and drench the nursery bed.

Best Time to Apply: For better results, spraying should be initiated when pest populations are at a low level of infestation.

Compatibility, Safety and Storage

Tank-Mix Compatibility

Metarhizium is compatible with bio-pesticides and botanical insecticides. Do not mix it with any hazardous chemicals.

Safety Precautions

• Wear gloves while handling and applying.
• Avoid application during peak sun or windy conditions.
• Avoid eating, drinking or smoking while handling or applying the product.
• Wash hands and any exposed skin thoroughly after use.
• Keep the product out of reach of children and pets.
• Avoid direct contact with eyes and skin.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry and well ventilated place, away from direct sunlight, and keep the product in its original sealed container.

Multiplex Metarhizium Expert Advice

"Metarhizium works best as a preventive application, so spray it while pest populations are still low rather than waiting for a visible outbreak and keep the 15 day interval between sprays, so the fungus has time to establish on the host insects." – BigHaat Agronomy Expert

Additional Information

• Farmers should always check the current product label before using, as availability can change from time to time.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for reference purposes only. Always follow the recommended application guidelines outlined on the product label and accompanying leaflet.