Diferentes estratégias de controle de percevejo marrom, Euchistus heros (F.) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) na cultura da soja (Glycine max (L.) Merr.)

Abstract

The present study aimed to evaluate different strategies for controlling the brown stink bug Euschistus heros in soybean Glycine max crops, using biological insecticides with and without combination with a chemical insecticide. Two management approaches were used: the conventional approach, in which applications were carried out on a scheduled basis, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM), in which insecticides were applied only when the presence of brown stink bugs reached the control threshold. The experiment was conducted under field conditions, using products based on Metarhizium anisopliae and Beauveria bassiana, applied alone and in combination with a chemical insecticide. Grain yield and application costs were evaluated in both systems. The results showed no statistically significant differences in grain yield among treatments; however, the IPM-based management reduced application costs by up to threefold, demonstrating its economic viability. The approach also showed potential to reduce the number of applications and, consequently, insecticide use, thereby providing benefits to human health and the environment.