Determination of the microbial load in insects of the order Coleoptera present in banana crops

Abstract

Banana cultivation is an essential economic activity in various regions of the world, including Ecuador. However, its sustainability is threatened by phytosanitary problems, including the possible action of insects of the order Coleoptera as vectors of phytopathogenic microorganisms. This study aimed to determine the microbial load associated with beetles present in banana plantations, evaluating their potential role as transmitters of pathogenic fungi. Microorganisms were isolated from culture media, fungi were characterized, and interactions between microbial strains and Fusarium spp. were analyzed. The results showed the presence of fungi such as Fusarium spp., Trichoderma spp., Aspergillus spp., and Penicillium spp., with Fusarium spp. being of special relevance due to its direct relationship with banana diseases. Fusarium spp. strains showed variability in their ability to affect growth parameters in banana crops, indicating their differential role in plant-pathogen interaction. This study contributes to the understanding of microbiological dynamics in banana cultivation and provides relevant information for the design of integrated pest management and disease control strategies.

Keywords: Coleoptera, Microbial, Banana, Vectors, Phytopathogens.