Beneficial Nematodes
The use of insect parasitic nematodes, and other biological control agents to manage insect pests has grown in popularity. This is primarily due to the changing problems associated with pest control. For example, many pests have developed resistance to certain pesticides, new pests have arisen to replace those successfully controlled, the effectiveness of natural control agents (predators, parasites and pathogens) has been reduced by pesticide use, pesticides are no longer inexpensive to use, and there is increased concern about pesticide safety and environmental quality. These beneficial organisms can be an important component of an integrated pest management (IPM) program for ornamental crops and turf grass sites.
What are beneficial nematodes?
Nematodes are morphologically, genetically and ecologically diverse organisms occupying more varied habitats than any other animal group except arthropods. These naturally occurring organisms are microscopic, unsegmented round worms that live in the soil and, depending on the species, infect plants and animals. The two nematode families Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae, contain the insect parasitic nematode species. The most commonly used beneficial nematodes are Steinernema carpocapsae, S. feltiae, S. glaseri, Heterorhabditisheliothidis and H bacteriophora. Nematodes that are endoparasites of insects attack a wide variety of agricultural pests.
Prepared by: Tim Abbey, Extension Educator, Nursery
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