Spodoptera frugiperda Nucleopolyhedrovirus SfNPV003: Compatibility with agrochemicals and storage stability

A Colombian isolate of Spodoptera frugiperda nucleopolyhedrovirus SfNPV003 was formulated as a powder by microencapsulating it with a methacrylic acid polymer, which increased the photostability of the virus. In order to generate recommendations for the use of this biopesticide, the objective of this study was to establish in vitro compatibility with chemicals (insecticides and fungicides) and to determine the product stability during 15 months at 8 °C, 18 °C and 28 °C. The virus was compatible with eight chemicals tested, with an insecticidal activity greater than 80%. When the biopesticide was stored at 8 °C, 18 °C and 28 °C, the insecticidal activity and the content of contaminants were within acceptance limits established for each property. Results indicated that microencapsulated SfMNPV can be stored at temperatures below 28 °C, thus ensuring product quality for at least 17 months,enough time for its distribution and use.