Isolation, preservation, characterization and identification of entomopathogenic nematodes

Abstract

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) in the families Heterorhabditidae and Steinernematidae have considerable potential as biological control agents of soil-inhabiting insect pests. EPNs can be one alternative to chemical insecticide for control of some important pests. EPNs containing the mutualistic bacteria are extraordinarily lethal to many insect soil-dwelling pests. Infective stage juvenile nematodes that also called dauer larvae (DL) enter insects through the mouth, anus, spiracles, or areas of thin cuticle. After penetrating to the haemocoel the nematodes release their bacteria, which quickly multiply and overwhelm the hosts, usually within 24 to 48 hr. In order to obtain current and important studies related with EPNs, some important methods have to be correctly done. Correct and complete application of the methods has a key role on success of a study. Therefore, in this chapter, the important methods of EPN experiments; isolation, preservation, characterization and identification of EPNs were summarised with many details, photographs and examples. It is thought that this chapter can give very useful and basic information to BSc, MSc or PhD students and scientists studying with EPNs. © 2011 Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.