Molecular Characterization of Native Entomopathogenic Fungi from Ambrosia Beetles in Hazelnut Orchards of Turkey and Evaluation of Their In Vitro Efficacy.

Ambrosia beetles, Fabricius, Blandford, and Ratzeburg (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) are among the most significant hazelnut pests in Turkey. The control of these pests is difficult and expensive due to their biology. The present study aimed to isolate entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) from , , and individuals that were obtained from the main hazelnut production areas of Turkey, characterize the EPF isolates using internal transcribed spacer (ITS)-DNA sequencing and iPBS profiling, and determine the efficacy of the isolates against , , and under laboratory conditions.