Wireworm Control in Potatoes Using *Metarhizium brunneum*

This report evaluates integrated pest management strategies for wireworm control in potato farming, focusing on *Metarhizium brunneum* as a biological agent. Field trials in Austria showed mixed results: one trial using bait plants (wheat, barley) with *M. brunneum* reduced damage by 33%, while others had limited efficacy despite high infestations. Soil factors like clay content and humus levels enhanced fungal performance by improving moisture retention. Inoculum quality varied, with low spore counts and contamination affecting outcomes. Application methods included fungal barley grains and CO₂-emitting capsules (e.g., Attractap), both requiring soil moisture for germination—explaining lower efficacy in drier Austrian conditions versus wetter German regions. Tillage was deemed ecologically harmful and impractical at scale, though viable in small, heavily infested areas with bait strips ≤1.5 m apart. Mechanised deployment of bait plants needs further development. A forecasting model using soil climate data (temperature, moisture) is proposed to predict *Agriotes ustulatus* activity. Summer soil cultivation targets early larval stages. Research gaps remain in optimising inoculum production and understanding bacterial symbionts’ role in wireworms. Multi-year strategies are essential for success.