Biocontrol Science and Technology (2016) 26, 835-848

Danica F. Dito, David I. Shapiro-Ilan, Christopher A. Dunlap, Robert W. Behle and Edwin E. Lewis (2016)
Enhanced biological control potential of the entomopathogenic nematode, Steinernema carpocapsae, applied with a protective gel formulation
Biocontrol Science and Technology 26 (6), 835-848
Abstract: Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are adapted to subterranean environments, and are prone to damage by UV light and desiccation. EPNs, Steinernema carpocapsae, combined with a protective gel, and anti-UV ingredients, have potential for above-ground pest management. We (1) ascertained whether the gel could provide protection to EPNs at low concentrations when applied in direct sun, (2) determined if other ingredients added to the gel increased efficacy, and (3) quantified retention and survival of EPNs applied to foliage with the gel. EPNs in 1% protective gel caused higher host mortality (60%) than other treatments (2–37%). UV protection provided by titanium dioxide (TD) and octyl methoxycinnamate with 1% protective gel solution was tested outdoors; these formulations resulted in higher host mortality (43% and 25%) than other treatments (2–7%). After 8 h in the greenhouse, 0.25% protective gel solution had the highest percentage of live EPNs on leaves. The gel at low concentration protects EPNs, and addition of TD enhanced the protective properties of the formulation. It is important to continually improve options for different growing systems and insect pest behaviour. TD added to a low-concentration formulation of the protective gel makes this application technique more viable for growers to use.
(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): Edwin E. Lewis, David I. Shapiro-Ilan, Robert W. Behle

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
biocontrol - natural enemies
Research topic(s) for beneficials or antagonists:
application technology
formulation/storage of bioagents

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
Steinernema carpocapsae/Xenorhabdus nematophila (entomopathogen)