| abstract |
A germination promoter for Nomuraea rileyi which comprises, as the active ingredient, a sphingosine capable of promoting the germination of N. rileyi, more specifically, at least one sphingosine selected from the group consisting of sphingosines having 12 to 18 carbon atoms. It is preferred that said germination promoter contains at least D-erythro-C14-sphingosine as the active ingredient. It is also preferred that said germination promoter further contains a peptidic nitrogen component. Thus, the germination of an entomopathogenic fungus N. rileyi can be promoted and a natural enemy/microbial pesticide containing N. rileyi can be obtained. This pesticide is useful, in particular, for controlling insects belonging to Lepidoptera, Orthoptera, Hemiptera, Coleoptera and so on. |