Fungal biopesticide for cattle tick control

The Fungal biopesticide for cattle tick control project investigated the use of fungal biopesticides for cattle tick control.

Summary

Cattle ticks (Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus) are a serious external parasite of cattle in Northern Australia. Current control strategies for ticks rely heavily on extensive chemical treatments (acaricides) which are beset with the problems of tick resistance and residues in meat and milk. Fungal biopesticides have emerged as realistic non-chemical control options for a range of pests in agriculture. Therefore one option for tick control is the use of a fungal biopesticide. The aim of this project was to refine then test a fungal biopesticide formulation against the parasitic stages of the cattle tick. A fungal biopesticide for tick control would constitute an important addition to current tick control options in the Northern cattle regions; helping to counter the problems associated with residues in meat and milk as well as the issues experienced in some areas due to tick populations resistant to most classes of acaricides.

When: 15 February 2010 to 1 July 2011

Contact: Dr Diana Leemon

Collaborator: Department of Agriculture and Fisheries

More information

For more information, please read the final report summary and download the final report (B.AHE.0020) (PDF, 550.3 KB) from the Meat & Livestock Australia website.