Entomopathogenic nematodes for insect control, distribution and applicability in South Africa

Abstract

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) have long been recognized as pathogens that are killers of soil-dwelling insects. They are found in a variety of soil habitats where other nematodes such as; free-living, predaceous and/or parasitic are found. The effect of EPNs as parasites of insects has been documented since the 17th century however; these insect pathogenic organisms were only seriously considered as biological control agents in the early 1930s. In South Africa, the work published by Heyns did aid in the recognition and identification of nematode genera occurring in the soil or as plant parasites. Meanwhile, the several papers published by Spaull have resulted in isolation of EPNs in the KwaZulu-Natal sugarcane plantations. Until now five Steinernema and two Heterorhabditis new species have been recorded in different parts of South Africa. With emphasis being placed on the disadvantages regarding the use of chemical pesticides, use of EPNs should be an alternative successful strategy for insect pest control in numerous cases. They can be applied easily alongside with many types of chemical and/or biological pesticides. Their effects are non-detrimental to non-target organisms. But no surveys documenting the distribution of EPNs found in some provinces of South Africa have been published and the paucity of knowledge regarding these beneficial organisms is dismal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]