Biocontrol Science and Technology (1996) 6, 389-402

Arne Peters (1996)
The natural host range of Steinernema and Heterorhabditis spp. and their impact on insect populations
Biocontrol Science and Technology 6 (3), 389-402
Abstract: The natural host range of entomopathogenic nematodes of the genera Steinernema and Heterorhabditis can be defined as the range of insects which indigenous nematode populations use for propagation. Information on the natural host range is rare. However, based on records of insects found to be naturally infected with nematodes, some conclusions regarding the natural host range of some Steinernema spp. and Heterorhabditis spp. are presented. Reports of indigenous nematode populations impacting on insect populations can be divided between relatively balanced, long-lasting nematode-host associations and unbalanced, short-lasting epizootics. Examples of the augmentation and inoculative introduction of nematodes in agriculture and forestry ecosystems are presented. Based on current knowledge, nematode reproduction strategies are discussed and indications of the risk involved in the release of non-indigenous nematodes are given.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Arne Peters

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
biocontrol - natural enemies
Research topic(s) for beneficials or antagonists:
general biology - morphology - evolution

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
Steinernema (genus - entomopathogens)
Heterorhabditis (genus - entomopathogens)