Production of entomopathogenic nematodes

Authors: Shapiro Ilan, David; HAN, RICHOU - Guangdong University; XUEHONG, QIU - Guangdong University

Submitted to: Mass Production of Beneficial Organisms: Invertebrates and Entomopathogens
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/20/2012
Publication Date: 1/2/2014
Citation: Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Han, R., Xuehong, Q. 2014. Production of entomopathogenic nematodes. Mass Production of Beneficial Organisms: Invertebrates and Entomopathogens. Pp., 321-356.

Interpretive Summary: Due to environmental and regulatory pressures, environmentally safe alternatives to broad spectrum chemical insecticides are needed. Entomopathogenic nematodes (also called beneficial nematodes) are safe environmentally friendly natural insecticides. These small round worms are commercially produced and applied to control a variety of insect pests. Production technology is a critical component for the success of these nematodes in biological pest control. Production approaches include in vivo (in insects), and in vitro methods (solid or liquid fermentation on artificial media). For laboratory use and small scale field experiments, in vivo production of appears to be the appropriate method. In vivo production is also appropriate for niche markets and small growers where a lack of capital, scientific expertise or infrastructure cannot justify large investments into in vitro culture technology. In vivo production has been improved through mechanization of the process. Advances have also been made by applying the in vivo produced host cadavers to the target site (thereby forgoing expensive harvesting steps). In vitro technology is used when large scale production is needed at reasonable quality and cost. In vitro production can be improved through diet optimization and bioreactor parameters. The nematodes are currently suited to application in various arenas such as orchards, vegetable crops, and home gardens. Information in this chapter provides analysis to facilitate expansion of the nematode's utility in biological pest control.

Technical Abstract: Production technology is critical for the success of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) in biological control. Production approaches include in vivo and in vitro methods (solid or liquid fermentation). For laboratory use and small scale field experiments, in vivo production of EPNs appears to be the appropriate method. In vivo production is also appropriate for niche markets and small growers where a lack of capital, scientific expertise or infrastructure cannot justify large investments into in vitro culture technology. Advances have been made by applying the in vivo produced host cadavers to the target site (thereby forgoing expensive harvesting steps). Moreover, in vivo production has been greatly enhanced by developing mechanized equipment for insect production, nematode inoculation, harvest and packaging. In vitro technology is used when large scale production is needed at reasonable quality and cost. In vitro production can be improved through diet optimization and bioreactor parameters. The nematodes are currently suited to application in various arenas such as orchards, vegetable crops, and home gardens. Information in this chapter provides analysis to facilitate expansion of the nematode's utility in biological pest control.