Metarhizium anisopliae (Green Muscardine)
Quick Facts
- Type
- Entomopathogenic fungus
- Source
- Soil-dwelling fungus found worldwide; infects insects through cuticle contact
- OMRI Listed
- Yes ✓
- Bee Safe
- Yes
- Pet Safe
- Yes
- Residual
- Can persist in soil for months under favorable conditions
- Best For
- Soil grub control, fire ant suppression, tick management in lawns.
What Is Metarhizium anisopliae (Green Muscardine)?
Similar to Beauveria but with different host range. Spores attach to cuticle, germinate, and penetrate via enzymatic breakdown. Produces destruxin toxins inside the insect. Dead insects turn green from sporulating fungus, spreading to nearby insects.
Source: Soil-dwelling fungus found worldwide; infects insects through cuticle contact
What Pests Does Metarhizium anisopliae (Green Muscardine) Kill?
Metarhizium anisopliae (Green Muscardine) is effective against the following pests:
How to Apply Metarhizium anisopliae (Green Muscardine)
Best for: Soil grub control, fire ant suppression, tick management in lawns.
Avoid for: Fast-moving aerial pest situations. Cold soil applications.
Residual activity: Can persist in soil for months under favorable conditions
Safety Profile
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Bee Safety | 🟢 Safe for bees |
| Pet Safety | 🟢 Safe for pets |
| Overall Rating | Safe — Safe for kids, pets, and bees when used as directed |
Why Isn't Metarhizium anisopliae (Green Muscardine) Working?
If Metarhizium anisopliae (Green Muscardine) isn't delivering results, check these common failure modes:
Requires consistent soil moisture for grub applications
Slow — 5-14 days to kill depending on insect size
Chemical fungicide interference kills the biocontrol fungus
Temperature sensitive — best between 70-85°F soil temperature
Best Metarhizium anisopliae (Green Muscardine) Products
Met52 EC
Emulsifiable concentrateProfessional Metarhizium for soil and foliar
Tick Ex EC
SprayMetarhizium-based tick control for lawns