ENTOMOPATHOGENIC NEMATODES AS BICONTROL AGENTS

Abstract

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) are used for management of insect pest. Parasitic relationship is based on symbiotic acting of the nematodes from genera Steinernema and Heterorhabditis and bacteria Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus.  They occur naturally in soil environment, but their natural populations mostly are not able to control pests at the level required by farmers. Mass production in liquid fer mentors can provide production for large scale application at competitive price compared to synthetic insecticides. Application is done by common application equipment for pesticides considering some specificity of bicontrol agents and by irrigation equipment. The major challenge for EPN efficacy is moisture. Provided enough moisture during searching and parasiting hosts can provide successful control Adjusting application to specificity of the EPN and the host is often necesary. They are he most efficent against soil stages of the insects. They found place in come rial application in fruit and vegetable production, ornamental, mushrooms. They are among the safest biological control agents what makes the desirable biocontrol agents. EPN's are often exempted from registration when it is scientificaly confirmed presence of natural populations within the country.