Biological control: use of Trichogramma

Abstract

Sustainability is gaining more space in the country’s agriculture; a new alternative has been
created to reduce the use of products that pollute the environment, and are economically more
viable to small producers. The objective of this work was to present the experience lived in a
property within the municipality of Jacutinga-RS, using the biological control agent (Trichogramma
sp.). The research evaluated the efficiency of the release of the same in the control
of the army worm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in the cultivarion of corn. Three distinct areas were
analyzed, two without Trichogramma application, and one with the application. It was observed
that the application of Trichogramma significantly decreased the presence and the damage
caused by the carcass caterpillar in the corn crop, not requiring the use of chemical insecticide.
Another important point to be mentioned is that when compared to chemical control, biological
control is economically more viable.