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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Byron, Georgia » Fruit and Tree Nut Research » Research » Research Project #441403

Research Project: Flatheaded Borer Management in Specialty Tree Crops

Location: Fruit and Tree Nut Research

Project Number: 6042-22000-024-017-R
Project Type: Reimbursable Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Oct 1, 2021
End Date: Aug 31, 2025

Objective:
1. Determine the entomopathogenic nematode species with greatest efficacy on flatheaded borers. 2. Develop methods to improve entomopathogenic nematode persistence and efficacy through the use of improve gels formulations and pheromones.

Approach:
In laboratory trials, screen the virulence of a wide array of entomopathogenic nematodes to determine the most promising strains in terms of biocontrol potential. In field plots, test the efficacy of candidate nematodes for efficacy to flatheaded borers while incorporating novel gel formulations and or pheromone boosters.