Virulence of new strain of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora from Croatia against Lasioptera rubi

Abstract

Soil samples from 100 cultivated and natural sites were assessed for the presence of entomopathogenic nematodes. Heterorhabditid nematodes were recovered from three soil samples during spring months, with the overall positive sample rate of 3%. The isolates of entomopathogenic nematodes were identified as three different strains conspecific with Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (Heterorhabditidae). They were found from natural sites and vineyard, while no recovery occurred from intensively cultivated agricultural fields. The morphometrical characteristics of infective juveniles and males showed differences between all Croatian strains and from the original description. Heterorhabditis bacteriophora ISO9 was bioassayed on Lasioptera rubi (Cecidomyiidae) (the raspberry gall midge) larvae at different nematode concentrations under laboratory conditions. The significantly highest mortality was observed in treatments with 50 and 200 infective juveniles per insect larvae within 8 days after inoculation. This is the first report of entomopathogenic nematodes of the family Heterorhabditidae from Croatia, and susceptibility of L. rubi larvae to entomopathogenic nematodes. The Croatian strain H. bacteriophora ISO9 was proved to possess strong insecticidal properties against L. rubi larvae.

Comparison of virulence, reproductive potential, and persistence among local Heterorhabditis indica populations for the control of Temnorhynchus baal (Reiche & Saulcy) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in Egypt

“…In order to avoid anoxic conditions for the IJs, their suspensions were aerated almost weekly by an aquarium oxygenator. The IJs were used within a week after harvesting of the last cycle, when the nematode survival was checked first by observing their mobility under stereomicroscope (Majić et al 2019).…”

Isolation, identification, and pathogenicity of entomopathogenic nematodes occurring in Cappadocia Region, Central Turkey

“…Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) from the families Heterorhabditidae and Steinernematidae possess many features that distinguish them from other EPNs and enable them to provide a more successful control against insect pests that live in both soil and cryptic habitats (Hazir et al 2004;Kaya et al 2006 andLacey andGeorgis 2012). Recently, EPNs as biological control agents proved to be successful in the management of major insect pests in agriculture Majić et al 2019).…”

Molecular Characterization of Several Isolates of Entomopathogenic Nematode Heterorhabditisbacteriophora Poinar (Rhabditida, Heterorhabditidae) from Soil of Citrus Orchards in Latakia, Syria

“…Species H. georgiana, placed in the same clad of bacteriophora, the close relationship of H. bacteriophora strain with H. georgiana was reported [13]. It is very difficult to distinguish these two species;also, H. georgiana is an American species with no more information about its occurrence from Europe [8].While other related species under the genus Heterorhabditisare separated in two clads supporting the division of the genus into three clads [13], [21].…”