Specialized technicians began biological applications early on Thursday, October 29, at Las Víboras hill in Atescatempa, Jutiapa. The operation aims to contain the spread of the Central American locust (Schistocerca piceifrons piceifrons), a pest known for causing significant crop damage in the region.
The activity is part of a national strategy for biological control led by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA), through its Vice Ministry of Agricultural Health and Regulations (VISAR) and the Directorate of Plant Health. Teams are using the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae var. Acridum. This method takes advantage of humidity and temperature conditions that improve its effectiveness. The fungus targets locusts specifically without harming other insects or the surrounding ecosystem.
Each day, about 15 hectares are treated with a goal to cover 150 hectares during this round. Locust populations identified in these areas are in early nymph stages (N1 to N3), which allows for effective intervention before swarms form or migration begins.
The biological control program has been active since 2020 and follows guidelines from the Central American Locust Commission (CRLC). It is also part of a regional effort to manage this pest sustainably. MAGA maintains ongoing phytosanitary monitoring in areas with previous outbreaks to ensure rapid response if new infestations occur.
All operations follow strict safety and occupational health protocols to protect technical staff and local communities. "With these actions, MAGA reaffirms its commitment to plant health protection and food security in the country, strengthening agricultural development through clean and sustainable technologies," according to an official statement.
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