Multidisciplinary work on the Identification and Publication of an Entomopathogenic Fungus Harmful to the Hemp Russet Mite in Kentucky.

This is a collaborative work of three departments: Entomology, Plant pathology and Plant and Soil Science. Since 2020, Dr. Villanueva observed mortalities of hemp russet mites in hemp leaves infested with this key pest. In 2021, Dr. Viloria isolated the fungus, samples were sent to the laboratory of Dr. Gauthier who identified this entomopathogen. Several studies were conducted by the PhD student Magdalena Ricciardi working under the supervision of Dr. Pearce.  Manuscript titled “First report of Hirsutella thompsonii as an entomopathogenic fungus of hemp russet mite (Aculops cannabicola) in Kentucky” was accepted for publication on the Plant Health Progress Journal in 2023. This entomopathogen is currently kept in culture by Dr. Gauthier for future uses and if it is effective there may be potential for its commercialization.