Diseño de una matriz microencapsulante a partir de compuestos biodegradables para la elaboración de un bioinsecticida

Several microencapsulating matrices were designed from completely biodegradable natural compounds and their feeding stimulant effect was evaluated in Argyrotaenia sp. which is an avocado lepidopteran pest. Microencapsulating matrices were prepared based on a modified corn-starch encapsulating agent (Capsul ®) with adherents such as gelatin, guar gum and Arabic gum, and powdered avocado leaves and powdered avocado rind as feeding stimulants. From the combination of these ingredients, nine types of granules were obtained and evaluated in feeding preference bioassays with neonate larvae of Argyrotaenia sp. The larvae exhibited a high feeding preference to microencapsulating matrices containing feeding stimulants, being more preferred the powdered leaves than the powdered rind. The most accepted adherent was the Arabic gum, because no negative effect was observed in the preference to the matrix. According to statistical analysis the most preferred microencapsulating matrices are as follows: Capsul®/Arabic gum/powdered avocado leaves > Capsul®/Arabic gum/ powdered avocado rind > Capsul®/guar gum/ powdered avocado leaves. The design of these microencapsulating matrices contributes to bioinsecticide development and offers an environmental-friendly option.