Methods, combinations, and compositions for controlling pest

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of controlling an insect pest, particularly pests of Tuta genus. In particular, the present invention relates to a method of controlling Tuta absoluta with a combination / composition of azadirachtin and an oil. The present invention also relates to a method of controlling Tuta absoluta with a combination / composition of azadirachtin, an oil, and optionally a biological pesticide. The present invention further relates to the combinations and compositions of azadirachtin, an oil and optional biological pesticide for controlling pests of Tuta genus, and kits comprising the same.

Description

[0001] METHODS, COMBINATIONS, AND COMPOSITIONS FOR CONTROLLING PEST

[0002] Field of invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a method of controlling an insect pest, particularly pests of Tula genus. In particular, the present invention relates to a method of controlling Tula absoluta with a combination / composition of azadirachtin and an oil. The present invention also relates to a method of controlling Tuta absoluta with a combination / composition of azadirachtin, an oil, and optionally a biological pesticide. The present invention further relates to the combinations and compositions of azadirachtin, an oil and optional biological pesticide for controlling pests of Tuta genus, and kits comprising the same.

[0004] Background

[0005] Tomato (Solarium lycopersicum L.) is one of the most grown and extensively consumed crops worldwide. Globally, about 160 million tonnes of tomatoes are produced each year. Tuta absoluta is a major threat to tomato production, causing losses ranging from 80% to 100% when not properly managed. Over the years, farmers have been using different methods in efforts to control the pest unsuccessfully. These include the use of pheromone traps and natural enemies to monitor the population, cultivation of resistant tomato varieties, and incessant spraying of chemical pesticides. The excessive use of these chemicals is not only uneconomical but also has harmful effects on non-targeted organisms and can also lead to the development of pest resistance and irreparable damage to the environment.

[0006] Alternative methods of control, particularly biocontrol, has been practiced with different active ingredients biocontrol agents such as predators, parasitoids, botanicals and microbials. However, the effectiveness and accessibility of these biopesticides vary with pest species and geographical areas whereas little success has been reported in certain regions. Thus, there is an urgent need for screening for effective alternative options to control Tuta absoluta and damage inflicted by it on tomato.

[0007] It is thus an object of the present invention to provide novel combinations and compositions for control of Tuta absoluta and other pests of Tuta genus. It is an object of the present invention to provide a method of controlling Tuta absoluta and other pests of Tuta genus with novel combinations and compositions of actives and effectively control damage and yield losses of tomato. It is another object of the present invention to provide synergistic combinations effective in controlling Tuta absoluta and other pests of Tuta genus. It is also an object of the present invention to provide solution for effective control of Tuta absoluta and other pests of Tuta genus comprising natural extracts or phytochemicals, ingredients harmless to plants, and / or biological agents; which are environment friendly and non-toxic to plants.

[0008] Summary of invention

[0009] An aspect of the present invention provides a method of controlling pests of Tuta genus.

[0010] In an aspect, there is provided a method of controlling pests of Tuta genus comprising contacting a pest of the Tuta genus with an insecticidal combination comprising azadirachtin and an oil.

[0011] An aspect of the present invention provides a method of controlling pests of Tuta genus comprising contacting a pest of the Tuta genus with a composition comprising an insecticidal combination comprising azadirachtin and an oil.

[0012] In an embodiment, the pest of the Tuta genus is Tuta absoluta. In another embodiment, the pest of the Tuta genus are pests resistant to one or more conventionally known insecticides.

[0013] In an embodiment, the said insecticidal combination or a composition comprising the said insecticidal combination further comprises an additional agrochemically active agent. In an embodiment said additional agrochemically active agent is a biological pesticide.

[0014] In an embodiment, said method comprises applying the said insecticidal combination or a composition comprising the said insecticidal combination with an additional agrochemically active agent. In an embodiment said additional agrochemically active agent is a biological pesticide.

[0015] Another aspect of the present invention provides an insecticidal combination comprising azadirachtin and an oil. In an embodiment, said combination is effective in controlling pests of the Tuta genus.

[0016] An aspect of the present invention provides an insecticidal composition comprising azadirachtin and an oil. In an embodiment, said composition is effective in controlling pests of the Tuta genus.

[0017] In an embodiment, said insecticidal combination or an insecticidal composition comprising said combination further comprises an additional agrochemically active agent. In an embodiment said additional agrochemically active agent is a biological pesticide. In an embodiment, said insecticidal combination or an insecticidal composition comprising said combination is further combined with an additional agrochemically active agent or a composition comprising said additional agrochemically active agent.

[0018] In an embodiment, the compositions of the present invention further comprise an agrochemically acceptable excipient.

[0019] An aspect provides a use of the combinations or the compositions of the present invention for controlling pests of Tula genus and controlling or preventing insect damage to plants.

[0020] Another aspect provides a kit comprising the following components: azadirachtin or a composition comprising azadirachtin, an oil, and optionally an additional component comprising an additional agrochemically active agent or a composition comprising said additional agrochemically active agent. The kit may further comprise an optional component comprising an agrochemically acceptable excipient. Optionally, the kit further comprises a set of instructions to mix, use and / or apply the components of the kit.

[0021] Detailed description of embodiments

[0022] For the purposes of the following detailed description, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. Moreover, other than in any operating examples, or where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing, for example, quantities of materials / ingredients used in the specification are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about".

[0023] Thus, before describing the present invention in detail, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particularly exemplified systems or process parameters that may of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments of the invention only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any manner. The use of examples anywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussed herein is illustrative only, and in no way limits the scope and meaning of the invention or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the invention is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. In the case of conflict, the present document, including definitions will control. It must be noted that, as used in this specification, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. The terms “preferred” and “preferably” refer to embodiments of the invention that may afford certain benefits, under certain circumstances.

[0024] As used herein, the terms “comprising” “including,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to.

[0025] As used herein, the term "control" or "controlling" as in e.g., the phrase: the "control" of pests or pest populations, or "controlling" pests or pest populations, or as in the phrase: "controlling" pests, refers to preventing, reducing, killing, inhibiting the growth of, or elimination of a pest or population of pests as defined herein. Indeed, "control" or "controlling" as used herein refers to any indicia of success in prevention, killing, inhibition, elimination, reduction or amelioration of a pest or pest population.

[0026] As used herein, the terms “g a i / ha” refers to grams active ingredient applied per hectare.

[0027] As used herein, the terms “L / ha” refers to active ingredient or the formulation comprising an active ingredient applied in litres per hectare.

[0028] As used herein, the term "Tula genus” comprises all variants, wild type, resistant varieties of species encompassed by the Tula genus.

[0029] As used herein, the term “azadirachtin” also encompasses it derivatives or salts. Azadirachtin can be synthesized synthetically or may be of natural origin, derived from neem oil or neem extracts. It encompasses purity of 10% to 100%.

[0030] As used herein, the term "entomopathogenic" means that the fungal pesticide is pathogenic to at least one target insect. As used herein, "entomopathogenic fungus" is a fungus that is capable of attacking, infecting, killing, disabling, causing disease, and / or causing injury to an insect, and is thus able to be used in the control insect infestation by adversely affecting the viability or growth of the target insect.

[0031] As used herein, the term “entomopathogenic fungus” also includes the spores, fungal cells, live or dead fungal strains, and mutated or genetically modified variants. As used herein, the term “Beauveria” comprises all the fungi, spores, species and strains occurring under the Beauveria genus of asexually-reproducing fungi allied with the ascomycete family Cordycipitaceae. The term encompasses species of Beauveria genus which are white entomopathogenic fungi. They form unicellular conidia that are typically hydrophobic and very small. The species may be selected from, but not limited to, Beauveria alba, Beauveria amorpha, Beauveria arenaria, Beauveria asiatica, Beauveria australis, Beauveria bassiana, Beauveria brongniartii, Beauveria brumptii, Beauveria caledonica, Beauveria chiromensis, Beauveria coccorum, Beauveria cretacea, Beauveria cylindrospora, Beauveria delacroixii, Beauveria densa, Beauveria dependens, Beauveria doryphorae, Beauveria effusa, Beauveria epigaea, Beauveria felina, Beauveria geodes, Beauveria globulifera, Beauveria heimii, Beauveria hoplocheli, Beauveria kipukae, Beauveria laxa, Beauveria malawiensis, Beauveria medogensis, Beauveria melolonthae, Beauveria nubicola, Beauveria oryzae, Beauveria paradoxa, Beauveria paranensis, Beauveria parasitica, Beauveria petelotii, Beauveria pseudobassiana, Beauveria rileyi, Beauveria rubra, Beauveria shiotae, Beauveria sobolifera, Beauveria spicata, Beauveria stephanoderis, Beauveria sulfurescens, Beauveria sungii, Beauveria tenella, Beauveria tundrensis, Beauveria velata, Beauveria varroae, Beauveria vermiconia, Beauveria vexans, Beauveria viannai, and Beauveria virella.

[0032] As used herein, the term “ Beauveria bassiana" comprises all the strains and spores of Beauveria bassiana which exhibit entomopathogenic behaviour and insect control properties. The term includes, but is not limited to strains GHA, 147, Mn, Bb5, Bb6, Bb8, Bbl2, Bbl5, Bb2, SBb36, TK, and so forth.

[0033] As used herein, the term "Melarhiziuin" comprises all the fungi, spores, species and strains occurring under the Metarhizium genus of entomopathogenic fungi in the Clavicipitaceae family. The term covers all entomopathogenic forms, species and strains of Metarhizium genus. Non-limiting examples include Metarhizium acridum, Metarhizium alvesii, Metarhizium anisopliae, Metarhizium argentinense, Metarhizium atrovirens, Metarhizium baoshanense, Metarhizium brachyspermum, Metarhizium brasiliense, Metarhizium brunneum, Metarhizium flavoviride, Metarhizium flavum, Metarhizium granulomatis, Metarhizium majus, Metarhizium rileyi, Metarhizium robertsii, Metarhizium album, and so forth.

[0034] An embodiment of the present invention provides a method of controlling pests of Tuta genus.

[0035] In an embodiment, there is provided a method of controlling pests of Tuta genus comprising contacting a pest of the Tuta genus with an insecticidal combination comprising Azadirachta indica (neem) - derived material and an oil. In an embodiment, Azadirachta indica - derived material is a neem extract or neem oil. In a preferred embodiment, Azadirachta indica - derived material is azadirachtin. In an embodiment, azadirachtin may be naturally derived or chemically synthesized.

[0036] In an embodiment, there is provided a method of controlling pests of Tula genus comprising contacting a pest of the Tuta genus with an insecticidal combination comprising azadirachtin and an oil.

[0037] An embodiment of the present invention provides a method of controlling pests of Tuta genus comprising contacting a pest of the Tuta genus with a composition comprising an insecticidal combination comprising azadirachtin and an oil.

[0038] In an embodiment, the oil is mineral oil, vegetable oil, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the vegetable oil may be selected from olive oil, kapok oil, castor oil, palm oil, sunflower oil, camellia oil, coconut oil, sesame oil, corn oil, rice bran oil, peanut oil, cottonseed oil, soybean oil, rapeseed oil, linseed oil, tung oil, canola oil, corn oil, or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the mineral oil may be selected from, but not limited to, paraffinic oil (paraffinum liquidum), petrolatum, cera microcristallina, microcrystalline wax, naphthenes, ozokerite, ceresine isoparaffin, paraffin and synthetic wax, aromatic oils, fuel oil, or combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the oil is a mineral oil. In a yet preferred embodiment, the oil is a paraffinic oil.

[0039] The term “paraffinic oil” is used synonymously with liquid paraffin, paraffinum liquidum, paraffin oil, and liquid paraffin oil.

[0040] In an embodiment, the pest of the Tuta genus is Tuta absoluta or Tuta atriplicella. In a preferred embodiment, the pest of the Tuta genus is Tuta absoluta. In another embodiment, the pest of the Tuta genus are pests resistant to one or more conventionally known insecticides.

[0041] In an embodiment, azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 1 g a i / ha to 100 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 1 g a i / ha to 50 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 2 g a i / ha to 40 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 3 g a i / ha to 30 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 4 g a i / ha to 25 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 5 g a i / ha to 20 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 10 g a i / ha to 22 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 15 g a i / ha to 22 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 6 g a i / ha to 18 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 7 g a i / ha to 15 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 8 g a i / ha to 12 g a i / ha. In a preferred embodiment, azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 8 g a i / ha. In another preferred embodiment azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 12 g a i / ha. In another preferred embodiment azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 12 g a i / ha to 22 g a i / ha. In another preferred embodiment azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 20 g a i / ha to 22 g a i / ha.

[0042] In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 1 L / ha to 100 L / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 1 L / ha to 50 L / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 2 L / ha to 40 L / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 3 L / ha to 30 L / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 4 L / ha to 25 L / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 5 L / ha to 20 L / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 6 L / ha to 18 L / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 7 L / ha to 15 L / ha. In a preferred embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 8 L / ha to 12 L / ha. In another preferred embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 8 L / ha. In a yet another preferred embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 10 L / ha. In another preferred embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 12 L / ha.

[0043] In another embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 500 g a i / ha - 28000 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 500 g a i / ha - 28000 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 1000 g a i / ha - 25000 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 1500 g a i / ha - 22000 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 2000 g a i / ha - 20000 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 2500 g a i / ha - 18000 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 3000 g a i / ha - 15000 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 3500 g a i / ha - 12000 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 3500 g a i / ha - 10000 g a i / ha. In a preferred embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 4000 g a i / ha - 7000 g a i / ha. In a preferred embodiment, the oil is applied at a rate of 3600 g a i / ha - 6552 g a i / ha.

[0044] In an embodiment, the said method comprises applying the insecticidal combination or the composition comprising the insecticidal combination to a target locus.

[0045] As used herein, the term “target locus” refers to an area, a plant or a part thereof, a crop or a part thereof which is infested by or prone to infestation by pests of Tula genus. It includes any habitat, breeding ground, plant or a part thereof, plant propagation material, soil, area, material or environment in which a crop is growing or may grow, or where the pest breeds, attacks, may breed or may attack. In a preferred embodiment, the target locus is a plant or a part thereof. In another preferred embodiment, the plant or a part thereof is tomato.

[0046] An embodiment of the present invention provides a method of controlling pests of Tula genus in tomato comprising contacting tomato or a pest of the Tuta genus with an insecticidal combination comprising azadirachtin and an oil, or a composition comprising said insecticidal combination.

[0047] An embodiment of the present invention provides a method of controlling Tuta absoluta in tomato comprising contacting tomato or Tuta absoluta with an insecticidal combination comprising azadirachtin and an oil, or a composition comprising said insecticidal combination.

[0048] In an embodiment, said insecticidal combination or a composition comprising the said insecticidal combination further comprises an additional agrochemically active agent.

[0049] In an embodiment, said method involves applying the said insecticidal combination or a composition comprising the said insecticidal combination with an additional agrochemically active agent.

[0050] In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is applied at a rate of about 1 L / ha to about 50 L / ha.

[0051] In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is applied at a rate of about 1 g a i / ha to about 1000 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is applied at a rate of about 10 g a i / ha to about 900 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is applied at a rate of about 20 g a i / ha to about 800 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is applied at a rate of about 40 g a i / ha to about 700 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is applied at a rate of about 50 g a i / ha to about 600 g a i / ha. In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is applied at a rate of about 70 g a i / ha to about 500 g a i / ha. In a preferred embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is applied at a rate of about 100 g a i / ha to about 400 g a i / ha. In another preferred embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is applied at a rate of about 120 g a i / ha to about 380 g a i / ha.

[0052] In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent, wherein the additional agrochemically active agent is a biological pesticide, is applied at a rate ranging from about 1 x 105to about 1 x 1015CFU / ml, 1 x 109to about 1 x 1012CFU / ml. In an embodiment, the method comprises applying the said insecticidal combinations as a ready mix, a pre-mix or a tank mix formulation.

[0053] The said method comprises applying the said insecticidal combination or a composition comprising the said insecticidal combination by any of the known means of applying pesticidal compounds. For example, it may be applied, formulated or unformulated, to the pests or to a locus of the pests (such as a habitat of the pests, or a growing plant liable to infestation by the pests) or to any part of the plant, including the foliage, stems, branches or roots, to the seed before it is planted or to other media in which plants are growing or are to be planted (such as soil surrounding the roots, the soil generally, paddy water or hydroponic culture systems), directly or it may be sprayed on, dusted on, applied by dipping, applied as a cream or paste formulation, applied as a vapor or applied through distribution or incorporation of a composition (such as a granular composition or a composition packed in a water-soluble bag) in soil or an aqueous environment.

[0054] In an embodiment, said method involves applying the said insecticidal combination or a composition comprising the said insecticidal combination by means of direct application, soil drench, foliar, systemic, topical, direct and residual sprays, aerial sprays, gels, seed treatments and coatings, in-furrow, microencapsulations, systemic uptake, baits, eartags, boluses, foggers, fumigants, aerosols, dusts. The compounds of this invention may also be impregnated into materials for fabricating invertebrate control devices (e.g., insect netting).

[0055] Another embodiment of the present invention provides an insecticidal combination comprising azadirachtin and an oil. In an embodiment, said combination is effective in controlling pests of the Tula genus.

[0056] An embodiment of the present invention provides an insecticidal composition comprising azadirachtin and an oil. In an embodiment, said composition is effective in controlling pests of the Tuta genus.

[0057] In an embodiment, said insecticidal combination or an insecticidal composition comprising said combination further comprises an additional agrochemically active agent.

[0058] In an embodiment, said insecticidal combination or an insecticidal composition comprising said combination is further combined with an additional agrochemically active agent or a composition comprising said additional agrochemically active agent. In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is selected from an herbicide, a fungicide, an insecticide, a micronutrient, a fertilizer, a biological, a biostimulant, and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is an insecticide. In another preferred embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is a biological pesticide.

[0059] In an embodiment, the biological pesticide is selected from bacteria, entomopathogenic fungi, predatory insects / mites, or combinations thereof.

[0060] In an embodiment, the bacteria belongs to Bacillus genus. In a preferred embodiment, the bacteria is Bacillus thuringiensis. In another preferred embodiment, the bacteria is Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki.

[0061] In an embodiment, the entomopathogenic fungus belongs to the genera Ascomycota, Alternaria, Beauveria, Lecanicillium, Metarhizium, Verticillium, Trichoderma, Aspergillus, Nomuraea, Paecilomyces, Isaria, Hirsutella, Fusarium, Cordyceps, Entomophthora, Zoophthora, Pandora, Entomophaga, Entomophthorales, Zygomycota and combinations thereof.

[0062] In one embodiment, non-limiting examples of entomopathogenic fungus that may be used in the compositions disclosed herein include species of Coelomycidium, Myiophagus, Coelemomyces, Lagenidium, Leptolegnia, Couchia, Sporodiniella, Conidiobolus, Entomophaga, Entomophthora, Erynia, Massospora, Meristacrum, Neozygites, Pandora, Zoophthora, Blastodendrion, Metschnikowia, Mycoderma, Ascophaera, Cordyceps,

[0063] Torrubiella, Nectria, Hypocrella, Calonectria, Filariomyces, Hesperomyces, Trenomyces, Myriangium, Podonectria, Akanthomyces, Aschersonia, Aspergillus, Beauveria,

[0064] Culicinomyces, Engyodontium, Fusarium, Gibellula, Hirsutella, Hymenostilbe, Isaria, Metarhizium, Nomuraea, Paecilomyces, Paraisaria, Pleurodesmospora, Polycephalomyces, Pseudogibellula, Sorosporella, Stillbella, Tetranacrium, Tilachlidium, Tolypocladium, Verticillium, Aegerita, Filobasidiella, Septobasidium, Uredinella, and combinations thereof.

[0065] In an embodiment, the non-limiting examples of entomopathogenic fungus species that may be useful as a fungal pesticide in the biopesticides described herein include Trichoderma hamatum, Trichoderma hazarium, Alternana cassiae, Fusarium lateritum, Fusarium solani, Lecanicillium lecanii, Aspergillus parasiticus, Verticillium lecanii, Metarhizium anisopliae, Metarhizium brunneum and Beauveria bassiana. In an embodiment, the entomopathogenic fungi are selected from Beauveria, Metarhizium, or combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the entomopathogenic fungus is Beauveria. In another preferred embodiment, the entomopathogenic fungus is Beauveria bassiana. In a yet another preferred embodiment, entomopathogenic fungus is Beauveria bassiana selected from the strains B. bassiana strain deposited at CNCM as 1-2961, B. bassiana strain deposited at CNCM as 1-2960, Beauveria bassiana strain ATCC-74040, Beauveria bassiana strain CNCM 1-867, Beauveria bassiana strain ATCC-74250, or combinations thereof.

[0066] In another preferred embodiment, the entomopathogenic fungus is Metarhizium. In a yet another preferred embodiment, the entomopathogenic fungus is Metarhizium selected from Metarhizium acridum, Metarhizium alvesii, Metarhizium anisopliae, Metarhizium argentinense, Metarhizium atrovirens, Metarhizium baoshanense, Metarhizium brachyspermum, Metarhizium brasiliense, Metarhizium brunneum, Metarhizium flavoviride, Metarhizium flavum, Metarhizium granulomatis, Metarhizium majus, Metarhizium rileyi, Metarhizium robertsii, Metarhizium album, and combinations thereof.

[0067] In an embodiment, the predatory insects are selected from Nesidiocoris, Macrolophus, or combinations thereof.

[0068] Another embodiment of the present invention provides an insecticidal combination comprising azadirachtin, an oil, and an additional agrochemically active agent. In an embodiment, said combination is effective in controlling pests of the Tuta genus.

[0069] Another embodiment of the present invention provides an insecticidal combination comprising azadirachtin, an oil, and an additional insecticide. In an embodiment, said combination is effective in controlling pests of the Tuta genus.

[0070] Another embodiment of the present invention provides an insecticidal combination comprising azadirachtin, an oil, and an additional insecticide, wherein said insecticide is a biological pesticide.

[0071] In an embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1:28000 to about 28000: 1. In an embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1:20000 to about 20000: 1. In an embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1: 15000 to about 15000: 1. In an embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1: 10000 to about 10000: 1. In a preferred embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1:7000 to about 7000: 1. In a preferred embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1:5000 to about 5000: 1. In a preferred embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1:4000 to about 4000:1. In a preferred embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1 : 2000 to about 2000: 1. In a preferred embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1 : 1000 to about 1000: 1. In a preferred embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1:500 to about 500: 1. In a preferred embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1:60 to about 60: 1. In a preferred embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1:45 to about 45: 1. In another preferred embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1:7 to about 7: 1. In a preferred embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 5:6 to about 6:5. In a preferred embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 2:3 to about 3:2. In a preferred embodiment, azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1: 1. In a most preferred embodiment azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of about 1:300 to about 1:600, about 1:300 to about 1:546.

[0072] In an embodiment, the azadirachtin and the additional agrochemically active agent is combined in a ratio of about 1: 100 to about 100: 1. In an embodiment, the azadirachtin and the additional agrochemically active agent is combined in a ratio of about 1:90 to about 90: 1. In an embodiment, the azadirachtin and the additional agrochemically active agent is combined in a ratio of about 1:80 to about 80: 1. In an embodiment, the azadirachtin and the additional agrochemically active agent is combined in a ratio of about 1:70 to about 70: 1. In an embodiment, the azadirachtin and the additional agrochemically active agent is combined in a ratio of about 1:60 to about 60: 1. In an embodiment, the azadirachtin and the additional agrochemically active agent is combined in a ratio of about 1:50 to about 50: 1. In a preferred embodiment, the azadirachtin and the additional agrochemically active agent is combined in a ratio of about 1 : 40 to about 40: 1. In a preferred embodiment, the azadirachtin and the additional agrochemically active agent is combined in a ratio of about 1:35 to about 35: 1. In a preferred embodiment, the azadirachtin and the additional agrochemically active agent is combined in a ratio of about 1 : 30 to about 30: 1. In a preferred embodiment, the azadirachtin and the additional agrochemically active agent is combined in a ratio of about 1:20 to about 20: 1. In a preferred embodiment, the azadirachtin and the additional agrochemically active agent is combined in a ratio of about 1: 10 to about 10: 1. In a most preferred embodiment In a preferred embodiment, the azadirachtin and the additional agrochemically active agent is combined in a ratio of about 1:6 to about 1:31.

[0073] In an embodiment, azadirachtin is present in an amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 99% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is present in an amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 50% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is present in an amount ranging from about 1% to about 30% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is present in an amount ranging from about 1% to about 20% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, azadirachtin is present in an amount ranging from about 1% to about 5% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition.

[0074] In an embodiment, the oil is present in an amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 99% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, the oil is present in an amount ranging from about 10% to about 90% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, the oil is present in an amount ranging from about 30% to about 70% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, the oil is present in an amount ranging from about 40% to about 60% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, the oil is present in an amount ranging from about 45% to about 55% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition.

[0075] In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is present in an amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 99% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is present in an amount ranging from about 1% to about 80% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is present in an amount ranging from about 1% to about 50% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is present in an amount ranging from about 2% to about 40% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is present in an amount ranging from about 5% to about 30% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent is present in an amount ranging from about 10% to about 20% w / w or w / v of the total weight or volume of the composition. In an embodiment, the additional agrochemically active agent, wherein the additional agrochemically active agent is a biological pesticide, is present in an amount ranging from about 1 x 105to about 1 x 1015CFU / ml, 1 x 109to about 1 x 1012CFU / ml.

[0076] In an embodiment, the compositions of the present invention further comprise an agrochemically acceptable excipient.

[0077] The agrochemically suitable excipient may be any one or a combination of adjuvants, cosolvents, surfactants, colorants, dispersants, emulsifiers, thickeners, antifreeze agents, biocides, anti-foam agents, stabilizers, wetting agents or a mixture thereof which may be optionally added to the compositions of the present invention.

[0078] The surfactants may be selected from non-ionic, anionic or cationic surfactants.

[0079] Examples of nonionic surfactants include polyarylphenol polyethoxy ethers, polyalkylphenol polyethoxy ethers, polyglycol ether derivatives of saturated fatty acids, polyglycol ether derivatives of unsaturated fatty acids, polyglycol ether derivatives of aliphatic alcohols, polyglycol ether derivatives of cycloaliphatic alcohols, fatty acid esters of polyoxyethylene sorbitan, alkoxylated vegetable oils, alkoxylated acetylenic diols, polyalkoxylated alkylphenols, fatty acid alkoxylates, sorbitan alkoxylates, sorbitol esters, C8-C22 alkyl or alkenyl polyglycosides, polyalkoxy styrylaryl ethers, alkylamine oxides, block copolymer ethers, polyalkoxylated fatty glyceride, poly alkylene glycol ethers, linear aliphatic or aromatic polyesters, organo silicones, polyaryl phenols, sorbitol ester alkoxylates, polyalkylene oxide block copolymers, acrylic copolymers and mono- and diesters of ethylene glycol and mixtures thereof.

[0080] Examples of anionic surfactants include alcohol sulfates, alcohol ether sulfates, alkylaryl ether sulfates, alkylaryl sulfonates such as alkylbenzene sulfonates and alkylnaphthalene sulfonates and salts thereof, alkyl sulfonates, mono- or di-phosphate esters of polyalkoxylated alkyl alcohols or alkylphenols , mono- or di- sulfo succinate esters of C12-C15 alkanols or polyalkoxylated C12-C15 alkanols, alcohol ether carboxylates, phenolic ether carboxylates, polybasic acid esters of ethoxylated polyoxyalkylene glycols consisting of oxybutylene or the residue of tetrahydrofuran, sulfoalkylamides and salts thereof such as N-methyl-N- oleoyltaurate Na salt, polyoxy alkylene alkylphenol carboxylates, polyoxy alkylene alcohol carboxylates alkyl polyglycoside / alkenyl succinic anhydride condensation products, alkyl ester sulfates, napthalene sulfonates, naphthalene formaldehyde condensates, alkyl sulfonamides, sulfonated aliphatic polyesters, sulfate esters of styrylphenyl alkoxylates, and sulfonate esters of styrylphenyl alkoxylates and their corresponding sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, ammonium, alkylammonium, diethanolammonium, or triethanolammonium salts, salts of ligninsulfonic acid such as the sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium or ammonium salt, polyarylphenol polyalkoxyether sulfates and polyarylphenol polyalkoxyether phosphates, and sulfated alkyl phenol ethoxylates and phosphated alkyl phenol ethoxylates.

[0081] Cationic surfactants include alkanol amides of Cs-Cis fatty acids and Cs-Cis fatty amine polyalkoxylates, Cio-Cis alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chlorides, coconut alkyldimethylaminoacetic acids, and phosphate esters of Cs-Cis fatty amine polyalkoxylates.

[0082] Emulsifiers which can be advantageously employed herein can be readily determined by those skilled in the art and include various non-ionic, anionic, cationic and amphoteric emulsifiers, or a blend of two or more emulsifiers. Examples of nonionic emulsifiers useful in preparing the emulsifiable concentrates include the polyalkylene glycol ethers and condensation products of alkyl and aryl phenols, aliphatic alcohols, aliphatic amines or fatty acids with ethylene oxide, propylene oxides such as the ethoxylated alkyl phenols and carboxylic esters solubilized with the polyol or polyoxyalkylene. Cationic emulsifiers include quaternary ammonium compounds and fatty amine salts. Anionic emulsifiers include the oil-soluble salts (e.g., calcium) of alkylaryl sulfonic acids, oil-soluble salts or sulfated polyglycol ethers and appropriate salts of phosphated poly glycol ether.

[0083] In an embodiment, colorants may be selected from iron oxide, titanium oxide and Prussian Blue, and organic dyestuffs, such as alizarin dyestuffs, azo dyestuffs or metal phthalocyanine dyestuffs, and trace elements, such as salts of iron, manganese, boron, copper, cobalt, molybdenum and zinc.

[0084] Another embodiment involves addition of a thickener or binder which may be selected from but not limited to molasses, granulated sugar, alginates, karaya gum, jaguar gum, tragacanth gum, polysaccharide gum, mucilage, xanthan gum or combination thereof. In another embodiment, the binder may be selected from silicates such as magnesium aluminium silicate, polyvinyl acetates, polyvinyl acetate copolymers, polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl alcohol copolymers, celluloses, including ethylcelluloses and methylcelluloses, hydroxymethyl celluloses, hydroxypropylcelluloses, hydroxymethylpropyl-celluloses, polyvinylpyrolidones, dextrins, malto-dextrins, polysaccharides, fats, oils, proteins, gum arabics, shellacs, vinylidene chloride, vinylidene chloride copolymers, calcium lignosulfonates, acrylic copolymers, starches, polyvinylacrylates, zeins, gelatin, carboxymethylcellulose, chitosan, polyethylene oxide, acrylimide polymers and copolymers, polyhydroxyethyl acrylate, methylacrylimide monomers, alginate, ethylcellulose, polychloroprene and syrups or mixtures thereof; polymers and copolymers of vinyl acetate, methyl cellulose, vinylidene chloride, acrylic, cellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone and polysaccharide; polymers and copolymers of vinylidene chloride and vinyl acetate-ethylene copolymers; combinations of polyvinyl alcohol and sucrose; plasticizers such as glycerol, propylene glycol, polyglycols.

[0085] In another embodiment, antifreeze agent(s) added to the composition may be alcohols selected from the group comprising of but not limited to ethylene glycol, 1,2-propylene glycol, 1,3- propylene glycol, 1,2-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,4-pentanediol, 3-methyl- 1,5-pentanediol, 2,3-dimethyl-2,3-butanediol, trimethylol propane, mannitol, sorbitol, glycerol, pentaerythritol, 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol, xylenol, bisphenols such as bisphenol A or the like. In addition, ether alcohols such as diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, polyoxyethylene or polyoxypropylene glycols of molecular weight up to about 4000, diethylene glycol monomethylether, diethylene glycol monoethylether, triethylene glycol monomethylether, butoxyethanol, butylene glycol monobutylether, dipentaerythritol, tripentaerythritol, tetrapentaerythritol, diglycerol, triglycerol, tetraglycerol, pentaglycerol, hexaglycerol, heptaglycerol, octaglycerol.

[0086] According to an embodiment, biocides may be selected from benzothiazoles, 1,2- benzisothiazolin-3-one, sodium dichloro-s-triazinetrione, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, l,2-phenyl-isothiazolin-3-one, inter chloroxylenol paraoxybenzoate butyl.

[0087] According to an embodiment, antifoam agent may be selected from Polydimethoxysiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane, Alkyl poly acrylates, Castor Oil, Fatty Acids, Fatty Acids Esters, Fatty Acids Sulfate, Fatty Alcohol, Fatty Alcohol Esters, Fatty Alcohol Sulfate, Foot Olive Oil, Mono & Di Glyceride, Paraffin Oil, Paraffin Wax, Poly Propylene Glycol, Silicones Oil, Vegetable Fats, Vegetable Fats Sulfate, Vegetable Oil, Vegetable Oil Sulfate, Vegetable Wax, Vegetable Wax Sulfate, agents based on silicon or magnesium stearate.

[0088] The additives to be used for the formulation include, for example, a solid carrier such as kaolinite, sericite, diatomaceous earth, slaked lime, calcium carbonate, talc, white carbon, kaoline, bentonite, clay, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, mirabilite, zeolite or starch; a solvent such as water, toluene, xylene, solvent naphtha, dioxane, dimethylsulfoxide, N,N- dimethylformamide, dimethylacetamide, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone or an alcohol; an anionic surfactant such as a salt of fatty acid, a benzoate, a polycarboxylate, a salt of alkylsulfuric acid ester, an alkyl sulfate, an alkylaryl sulfate, an alkyl diglycol ether sulfate, a salt of alcohol sulfuric acid ester, an alkyl sulfonate, an alkylaryl sulfonate, an aryl sulfonate, a lignin sulfonate, an alkyldiphenylether disulfonate, a polystyrene sulfonate, a salt of alkylphosphoric acid ester, an alkylaryl phosphate, a styrylaryl phosphate, a salt of polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfuric acid ester, a polyoxyethylene alkylaryl ether sulfate, a salt of polyoxyethylene alkylaryl ether sulfuric acid ester, a polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphate, a salt of polyoxyethylene alkylaryl phosphoric acid ester, a salt of polyoxyethylene aryl ether phosphoric acid ester, a naphthalene sulfonic acid condensed with formaldehyde or a salt of alkylnaphthalene sulfonic acid condensed with formaldehyde; a nonionic surfactant such as a sorbitan fatty acid ester, a glycerin fatty acid ester, a fatty acid polyglyceride, a fatty acid alcohol polyglycol ether, acetylene glycol, acetylene alcohol, an oxyalkylene block polymer, a polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, a polyoxyethylene alkylaryl ether, a polyoxyethylene styrylaryl ether, a polyoxyethylene glycol alkyl ether, polyethylene glycol, a polyoxyethylene fatty acid ester, a polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid ester, a polyoxyethylene glycerin fatty acid ester, a polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil or a polyoxypropylene fatty acid ester; and a vegetable oil or mineral oil such as olive oil, kapok oil, castor oil, palm oil, camellia oil, coconut oil, sesame oil, com oil, rice bran oil, peanut oil, cottonseed oil, soybean oil, rapeseed oil, linseed oil, tung oil or liquid paraffins. These additives may suitably be selected for use alone or in combination as a mixture of two or more of them, so long as the object of the present invention is met. Further, additives other than the above-mentioned may be suitably selected for use among those known in this field. For example, various additives commonly used, such as a filler, a thickener, an anti-settling agent, an anti-freezing agent, a dispersion stabilizer, a safener, an anti-mold agent, a bubble agent, a disintegrator and a binder, may be used.

[0089] The agrochemical formulation may also comprise one or more antioxidants. Preferably, the agrochemical formulation comprises an antioxidant. Antioxidants are, for example, amino acids (e.g. glycine, histidine, tyrosine, tryptophan) and derivatives thereof, imidazole and imidazole derivatives (e.g. urocanic acid), peptides, such as, for example, D,L-carnosine, D- carnosine, L-camosine and derivatives thereof (e.g. anserine), carotenoids, carotenes (e.g. a- carotene, P-carotene, lycopene) and derivatives thereof, lipoic acid and derivatives thereof (e.g. dihydrolipoic acid), aurothioglucose, propylthiouracil and further thio compounds (e.g. thioglycerol, thiosorbitol, thioglycolic acid, thioredoxin, glutathione, cysteine, cystine, cystamine and the glycosyl, N-acetyl, methyl, ethyl, propyl, amyl, butyl, lauryl, palmitoyl, oleyl, y-linoleyl, cholesteryl and glyceryl esters thereof), and salts thereof, dilauryl thiodipropionate, distearyl thiodipropionate, thiodipropionic acid and derivatives thereof (esters, ethers, peptides, lipids, nucleotides, nucleosides and salts), and sulfoximine compounds (e.g. buthionine sulfoximines, homocysteine sulfoximine, buthionine sulfones, penta-, hexa-, heptathionine sulfoximine) in very low tolerated doses (e.g. pmol / kg to pmol / kg), also metal chelating agents (e.g. a-hydroxy fatty acids, EDTA, EGTA, phytic acid, lactoferrin), a-hydroxy acids (e.g. citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid), humic acids, bile acid, bile extracts, gallic esters (e.g. propyl, octyl and dodecyl gallate), flavonoids, catechins, bilirubin, biliverdin and derivatives thereof, unsaturated fatty acids and derivatives thereof (e.g. y-linolenic acid, linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, oleic acid), folic acid and derivatives thereof, hydroquinone and derivatives thereof (e.g. arbutin), ubiquinone and ubiquinol, and derivatives thereof, vitamin C and derivatives thereof (e.g. ascorbyl palmitate, stearate, dipalmitate, acetate, Mg ascorbyl phosphates, sodium and magnesium ascorbate, disodium ascorbyl phosphate and sulfate, potassium ascorbyl tocopheryl phosphate, chitosan ascorbate), isoascorbic acid and derivatives thereof, tocopherols and derivatives thereof (e.g. tocopheryl acetate, linoleate, oleate and succinate, tocophereth-5, tocophereth-10, tocophereth-12, tocophereth-18, tocophereth-50, tocophersolan), vitamin A and derivatives (e.g. vitamin A palmitate), the coniferyl benzoate of benzoin resin, rutin, rutinic acid and derivatives thereof, disodium rutinyl disulfate, cinnamic acid and derivatives thereof (e.g. ferulic acid, ethyl ferulate, caffeeic acid), kojic acid, chitosan glycolate and salicylate, butylhydroxytoluene, butylhydroxyanisol, nordihydroguaiacic acid, nordihydroguaiaretic acid, trihydroxybutyrophenone, uric acid and derivatives thereof, mannose and derivatives thereof, selenium and selenium derivatives (e.g. selenomethionine), stilbenes and stilbene derivatives (e.g. stilbene oxide, trans-stilbene oxide). According to the invention, suitable derivatives (salts, esters, sugars, nucleotides, nucleosides, peptides and lipids) and mixtures of these specified active ingredients or plant extracts (e.g. teatree oil, rosemary extract and rosemarinic acid) which comprise these antioxidants can be used. In general, mixtures of the aforementioned antioxidants are possible.

[0090] According to an embodiment, examples of suitable solvents are water, aromatic solvents (for example, xylene), paraffins (for example mineral oil fractions such as kerosene or diesel oil), coal tar oils and oils of vegetable or animal origin, aliphatic, cyclic and aromatic hydrocarbons, for example toluene, xylene, paraffin, tetrahydronaphthalene, alkylated naphthalenes or their derivatives, alcohols (for example methanol, butanol, pentanol, benzyl alcohol, cyclohexanol), ketones (for example cyclohexanone, gamma-butyrolactone), pyrrolidones (NMP, NEP, NOP), acetates (glycol diacetate), glycols, fatty acid dimethylamides, fatty acids and fatty acid esters, isophorone and dimethylsulfoxide. In principle, solvent mixtures may also be used.

[0091] According to an embodiment, suitable surfactants are alkali metal, alkaline earth metal and ammonium salts of lignosulfonic acid, naphthalenesulfonates, phenolsulfonic acid, dibutylnaphthalenesulfonic acid, alkylarylsulfonates, alkyl sulfates, alkylsulfonates, fatty alcohol sulfates, fatty acids and sulfated fatty alcohol glycol ethers, furthermore condensates of sulfonated naphthalene and naphthalene derivatives with formaldehyde, condensates of naphthalene or of naphthalenesulfonic acid with phenol and formaldehyde, polyoxyethylene octylphenol ethers, ethoxylated isooctylphenol, octylphenol, nonylphenol, alkylphenol polyglycol ethers, tributylphenyl polyglycol ethers, tristearylphenyl polyglycol ethers, alkylaryl polyether alcohols, alcohol and fatty alcohol / ethylene oxide condensates, ethoxylated castor oil, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, ethoxylated polyoxypropylene, lauryl alcohol polyglycol ether acetal, sorbitol esters, lignosulfite waste liquors and methylcellulose.

[0092] According to an embodiment, examples of suitable carriers are mineral earths such as silica gels, silicates, talc, kaolin, attaclay, attapulgite, limestone, lime, chalk, bole, loess, clay, dolomite, diatomaceous earth, calcium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, magnesium oxide, ground synthetic materials, fertilizers, such as, for example, ammonium sulfate, ammonium phosphate, ammonium nitrate, ureas, and products of vegetable origin, such as cereal meal, tree bark meal, wood meal and nutshell meal, cellulose powders, polyvinylpyrrolidone and other solid carriers.).

[0093] Suitable preservatives are for example l,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one and / or 2-Methyl-2H- isothiazol-3-one or sodium benzoate or benzoic acid.

[0094] The combinations and compositions of the present invention comprise azadirachtin, oil and the optional additional agrochemically active agent in insecticidally effective amounts.

[0095] Thus, an embodiment of the present invention provides an insecticidal combination or a composition comprising azadirachtin, an oil, and optionally an additional agrochemically active agent.

[0096] An embodiment of the present invention provides an insecticidal combination or a composition comprising azadirachtin, an oil, and optionally a biological pesticide. An embodiment of the present invention provides an insecticidal combination or a composition comprising azadirachtin, an oil, and optionally a biological pesticide. In an embodiment, the biological pesticide is present as an oil dispersion. The oil may be selected from any of the oils embodied in the specification.

[0097] An embodiment of the present invention provides an insecticidal combination or a composition comprising azadirachtin, a mineral oil, and optionally a biological pesticide. In an embodiment, the biological pesticide is present as an oil dispersion. The oil may be selected from any of the oils embodied in the specification.

[0098] An embodiment of the present invention provides an insecticidal combination or a composition comprising azadirachtin, a mineral oil, and optionally a biological pesticide selected from Bacillus, Beauveria, and Metarhizium.

[0099] An embodiment of the present invention provides an insecticidal combination or a composition comprising azadirachtin, a mineral oil, and optionally a biological pesticide selected from Bacillus thuringiensis, Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae, Metarhizium brunneum and combinations thereof.

[0100] Said combinations and compositions are suitable for controlling pest of Tuta genus, preferably Tula absoluta. Said combinations and compositions are suitable for controlling pest of Tuta genus in tomato.

[0101] In an embodiment, the insecticidal combination or composition of the present invention may be tank mixed with agrochemically suitable excipients and applied at a locus where one or more crop is growing, or may be alternatively mixed with water, and then applied.

[0102] In an embodiment, the insecticidal compositions may be applied in a diluted or an undiluted form. The insecticidal combinations or compositions may also be applied as a ready-to-use product.

[0103] An embodiment provides a use of the combinations or the compositions of the present invention for controlling pests of Tuta genus and controlling or preventing insect damage to plants.

[0104] Another embodiment provides a kit comprising the following components: azadirachtin or a composition comprising azadirachtin, an oil, and optionally an additional component comprising an additional agrochemically active agent or a composition comprising said additional agrochemically active agent. The kit may further comprise an optional component comprising an agrochemically acceptable excipient. Optionally, the kit further comprises a set of instructions to mix, use and / or apply the components of the kit.

[0105] Synergistic effect refers to efficacy greater than additive effect of individual efficacies of the constituent active ingredients, here azadirachtin and oil. This effectiveness of all treatments can be evaluated according to Colby’s equation. In the Colby’s equation given below, E is the expected efficacy of combination of azadirachtin and oil,

[0106] X is the observed efficacy of azadirachtin and

[0107] Y is the observed efficacy of the oil.

[0108] Observed efficacy values i.e. X and Y are % mortality of Tula absoluta for azadirachtin and oil respectively. If observed efficacy of combination of azadirachtin and oil is greater than its expected efficacy, then combination is determined to be synergistic. If observed efficacy is equal to or less than expected efficacy, then combination is determined to be non- synergistic.

[0109] Colby’s equation E = X + Y - XY / 100

[0110] Synergistic effect refers to efficacy greater than additive effect of individual efficacies of the constituent active ingredients, here azadirachtin, oil and biological pesticide. This effectiveness of all treatments can be evaluated according to Colby’s equation. In the Colby’s equation given below, E is the expected efficacy of combination of azadirachtin, oil and biological pesticide,

[0111] X is the observed efficacy of azadirachtin

[0112] Y is the observed efficacy of the oil

[0113] Z is the observed efficacy of the biological pesticide

[0114] Observed efficacy values i.e. X, Y and Z are % mortality of Tuta absoluta for azadirachtin, oil and biological pesticide respectively. If observed efficacy of combination of azadirachtin, oil and biological pesticide is greater than its expected efficacy, then combination is determined to be synergistic. If observed efficacy is equal to or less than expected efficacy, then combination is determined to be non- synergistic.

[0115] Colby’s equation E = X + Y + Z - (XY / 100 + YZ / 100 + XZ / 100) + (XYZ / 10000) The results of synergistic effects of the present combinations / compositions is represented in examples. As used herein, all numerical values or numerical ranges include integers within such ranges and fractions of the values or the integers within ranges unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a range of 90- 100%, includes 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 95%, 97%, etc., as well as 91.1%, 91.2%, 91.3%, 91.4%, 91.5%, etc., 92.1%, 92.2%, 92.3%, 92.4%, 92.5%, etc., and so forth.

[0116] The invention will now be described in more details with reference to the following examples. While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above-described embodiment, method, and following examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention.

[0117] Examples

[0118] Example 1: Efficacy of azadirachtin + mineral oil on Tula absoluta in tomato

[0119] 12 g a i / ha Azadirachtin (1% EC formulation) + 8 L / ha mineral oil (45% EO formulation) was applied to potted tomato plants for control of Tuta absoluta. 2 foliar applications (A, B) were done 14 days apart. The trial was conducted in 4 replicates in the year 2021. Water volume was maintained at 400 L / ha. Efficacy (control of % eating damage by Tuta absoluta) was recorded at 21 days after second application (B). The observations are provided in the below Table 1:

[0120] Table 1: Efficacy of azadirachtin + mineral oil on eating damage by Tuta absoluta in tomato Example 2: Efficacy of azadirachtin + paraffinic oil on Tuta absoluta in tomato

[0121] 12 g a i / ha Azadirachtin (1% EC) + 12 L / ha paraffinic oil (54.6% EW) was applied to potted tomato plants for control of Tuta absoluta. 2 foliar applications (A, B) were done 14 days apart. The trial was conducted in 4 replicates in the year 2021. Water volume was 400 L / ha. Efficacy (control of % eating damage by Tuta absoluta) was recorded at 21 days after second application

[0122] (B). The observations are provided in the below Table 2:

[0123] Table 2: Efficacy of azadirachtin + paraffinic oil on eating damage by Tuta absoluta in tomato

[0124] Example 3: Efficacy of azadirachtin + mineral oil + Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki on Tuta absoluta in tomato

[0125] 12 g a i / ha Azadirachtin (1% EC) + 8 L / ha mineral oil (45% EO) + 2 L / ha Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (18.3% SC) was applied to potted tomato plants for control of Tuta absoluta. 2 foliar applications (A, B) were done 14 days apart. The trial was conducted in 4 replicates in the year 2021. Water volume was 400 L / ha. Efficacy (control of % eating damage by Tuta absoluta) was recorded at 21 days after second application (B). The observations are provided in the below Table 3:

[0126] Table 3: Efficacy of azadirachtin + mineral oil + Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki on eating damage by Tuta absoluta in tomato

[0127] Example 4: Efficacy of azadirachtin + paraffinic oil + Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki on Tula absoluta in tomato

[0128] 12 g a i / ha Azadirachtin (1% EC) + 12 L / ha paraffinic oil (54.6% EW) + 2 L / ha Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (18.3% SC) was applied to potted tomato plants for control of Tula absoluta. 2 foliar applications (A, B) were done 14 days apart. The trial was conducted in 4 replicates in the year 2021. Water volume was 400 L / ha. Efficacy (control of % eating damage by Tula absoluta) was recorded at 21 days after second application (B). The observations are provided in the below Table 4: Table 4: Efficacy of azadirachtin + paraffinic oil + Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki on eating damage by Tuta absoluta in tomato Example 5: Efficacy of azadirachtin + paraffinic oil + Beauveria bassiana on Tuta absoluta in tomato

[0129] Azadirachtin 26 EC, Beauveria bassiana (lxlO9CFU / ml) OD, and Paraffinic oil 546 EW were tank mixed and applied as a foliar spray on greenhouse potted tomato plants infested with Tuta absoluta. 2 Applications of the tank-mixed composition were made. Water volume was maintained at 800 L / ha. Solo treatments of Azadirachtin 26 EC, Beauveria bassiana (IxlO9CFU / ml) OD, and Paraffinic oil 546 EW were conducted. The experiment was conducted in 4 replicates in the year 2024 and the efficacy of controlling pest damage was reported as average of the replicates 3 days after second application. Table 5: Efficacy of azadirachtin + paraffinic oil + Beauveria bassiana on Tuta absoluta in tomato 3 days after second foliar application

[0130] Example 6: Efficacy of azadirachtin + paraffinic oil + Metarhizhium brunneum on Tuta absoluta in tomato Azadirachtin 26 EC, Metarhizium brunneum 105 OD, and Paraffinic oil 546 EW were tank mixed and applied as a foliar spray on greenhouse potted tomato plants infested with Tuta absoluta. 2 Applications of the tank-mixed composition were made. Water volume was maintained at 800 L / ha. Solo treatments of Azadirachtin 26 EC, Metarhizhium brunneum 105 OD, and Paraffinic oil 546 EW were conducted. The experiment was conducted in 4 replicates in the year 2024 and the efficacy of controlling pest damage was reported as average of the replicates 6 days after first application; 3, 7, 14 days after second application.

[0131] Table 6: Efficacy of azadirachtin + paraffinic oil + Metarhizium brunneum on Tula absoluta in tomato 3 days after second foliar application From the above tables 1 and 2, it can be noted that the binary combination of azadirachtin and oil is synergistic in controlling the Tuta absoluta. From the tables 3 - 6, it can be noted that the ternary combination of azadirachtin, oil and a biological pesticide is synergistic in controlling the Tuta absoluta. 1

Claims

We Claim:

1. A method of controlling pests of Tuta genus comprising contacting a pest of the Tuta genus with an insecticidal combination comprising azadirachtin and an oil or a composition comprising said insecticidal combination.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein said insecticidal combination or composition further comprises an additional agro chemically active agent, wherein the additional agro chemically active agent is a biological pesticide.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein said method involves applying the said insecticidal combination or a composition comprising the said insecticidal combination with an additional agrochemically active agent, and wherein the additional agrochemically active agent is a biological pesticide.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the oil is mineral oil, vegetable oil, or a combination thereof.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the mineral oil is selected from, paraffinic oil (paraffinum liquidum), petrolatum, cera microcristallina, microcrystalline wax, naphthenes, ozokerite, ceresine isoparaffin, paraffin and synthetic wax, aromatic oils, fuel oil, or combinations thereof.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein the vegetable oil may be selected from olive oil, kapok oil, castor oil, palm oil, sunflower oil, camellia oil, coconut oil, sesame oil, corn oil, rice bran oil, peanut oil, cottonseed oil, soybean oil, rapeseed oil, linseed oil, tung oil, canola oil, corn oil, or combinations thereof.

7. The method of claim 2, wherein the biological pesticide is selected from bacteria, entomopathogenic fungi, predatory insects / mites, or combinations thereof.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the bacteria is selected from Bacillus genus.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein the entomopathogenic fungi are selected from Beauveria, Metarhizium, or combinations thereof.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the azadirachtin is applied at a rate of 1 g a i / ha to 100 g a i / ha.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the oil is applied at a rate of about 1 L / ha to about 100 L / ha, or about 500 g a i / ha to about 28000 g a i / ha.

12. The method of claim 2, wherein the biological pesticide is applied at a rate of about 50 g a i / ha to about 500 g a i / ha, or about 1 x 105to about 1 x 1015CFU / ml.

13. An insecticidal combination comprising azadirachtin, an oil and optionally an additional agrochemically active agent, wherein the additional agrochemically active agent is a biological pesticide.

14. The insecticidal combination of claim 13, wherein the azadirachtin and the oil are combined in a ratio of 1:28000 to 28000: 1.

15. The insecticidal combination of claim 13, wherein the azadirachtin and the optional biological pesticide are combined in a ratio of 1: 100 to 100: 1.

16. An insecticidal composition comprising the insecticidal combination of claim 13 and an agrochemically acceptable excipient.

17. The insecticidal combination of claim 13, or a composition comprising said combination is effective in controlling pests of Tuta genus.

18. Use of insecticidal combination of claim 13, or a composition comprising said combination for controlling pests of Tuta genus.

19. Use of insecticidal combination of claim 13, or a composition comprising said combination for controlling pests of Tuta genus in tomato.

20. A kit-of-parts comprising components: a) azadirachtin; b) an oil; c) an optional component comprising an additional agrochemically active agent; d)an optional component comprising an agrochemically acceptable excipient; e)optionally, a set of instructions to mix, use and / or apply the components of the kit.

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