Back G. R. Ramos and S. E. C. Cabezas
Barramansense Faculty, Barra Mansa, RJ, Brazil
Full Paper (PDF File: 84KB)
Abstract
A study was conducted in 1994 to determine the effect of Effective Microorganisms (EM) on controlling ticks (Boophilus microplus Canestrini, 1887) in cattle. Three lots of 15-month old crossbred animals (five animals per lot) were sprayed six times from October to December with EM 5 using backpack sprayers (Jacto brand) with a 20-liter capacity. At each spraying, individual animals received three liters of EM 5 solution diluted with water to either 50% or 30%. Within the first 60 days after EM 5 was applied, there was a significant reduction in the number of engorged female ticks. In late December, EM 5 at 30% showed effective control of tick populations and a reduction in costs. At first, the untreated control lot contained medium to high infestations, but subsequently there was an increase in the population of engorged females, During the entire period of observation, the control lot showed medium to high infestations. The results of EM 5 applications were comparable to conventional pyrethroid pesticides used to control ticks. Applications of EM5 solution at 30% (at 15-day intervals) significantly reduced the cost of tick control compared with two applications of pyrethroid pesticides. EM5 was also effective in controlling the infestation of botflies (Dermatobia sp, ).