Biological control of slugs with the rhabditid nematode Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita

Abstract

This literature review is based on the biological control of slugs using the nematode Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita. It describe the effectiveness and mode of action according to its environment. Also the method of application and doses, compared to chemical molluscicides and the study of the bacteria associated to the nematode. P. hermaphrodita seems to prefer soil moisture and infect young slugs of the Deroceras species. Partial nematode applications are less expensive and should be done in slug resting áreas.There are other nematodes species for slug control but with no effectiveness. More research is still needed to prove when nematode P. hermaphrodita's action stage is, because it has not been so effective for the control of many other slug species.