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entomopathogenic nematodes

Management of lepidopteran insects using entomopathogenic nematodes

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/agriculture/agri-inputs/bio-inputs/entomopathogenic-nematodes/management-of-lepidopteran-insects-using-entomopathogenic-nematodes

provides detailed information on management of lepidopteran insect pests using EPN

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Management of lepidopteran insects using entomopathogenic nematodes
K. Pranahitha1., K. Sankari Meena2, Ch. Akhila1, M.V. Deborah1 and P. Manju3
1. Professor Jayashankar Telangana Agricultural University, Hyderabad
2. ICAR-Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research, Hyderabad
3. Kumaraguru Institute of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu
Introduction
Lepidopteran pests such as Spodoptera litura, Helicoverpa armigera and Plutella xylostella cause serious crop losses in vegetables, oilseeds, pulses and cotton. Intensive insecticide use can promote resistance and affect beneficial organisms, highlighting the importance of biological control within integrated pest management (IPM). Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are promising biocontrol agents because their infective juveniles actively seek insect hosts and deliver lethal bacterial symbionts (Kaya and Gaugler, 1993; Lacey and Georgis, 2012). The major EPN genera, Steinernema and Heterorhabditis, are associated with Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus, respectively. Infective juveniles enter insects and release these bacteria, which multiply and produce toxins, causing rapid host mortality. The nematodes subsequently reproduce within the cadaver and generate new infective juveniles (Tarasco et al., 2023).&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
How EPNs control lepidopteran pests Infective juveniles (IJs) locate susceptible larvae through host cues and enter through natural openings or directly through the cuticle in Heterorhabditis. They release their bacterial symbionts, which multiply rapidly and produce virulence factors, causing host mortality within a few days under favourable conditions. The nematodes feed and reproduce in the cadaver, producing new IJs for subsequent infection.
Important lepidopteran targets Spodoptera litura is a major polyphagous pest and an important target of EPNs. Heterorhabditis indica and several Steinernema spp. have shown efficacy against S. litura, while Helicoverpa armigera and Plutella xylostella are also susceptible. Biogel formulation of S. thermophilum has demonstrated potential against lepidopteran pests (Kour et al., 2021).
 Application methods and formulations EPNs can be applied through soil drenching or irrigation against soil-dwelling pest stages, while foliar application targets exposed caterpillars. Because infective juveniles (IJs) are sensitive to ultraviolet radiation and desiccation, applications during early morning or evening, with adequate post-application moisture, can improve survival. Formulations such as sponge, clay, kaolin, alginate beads, hydrogels, biogels and emulsions have been developed to enhance handling, storage and delivery (Shapiro-Ilan et al., 2012; Koppenhofer et al., 2020).
An effective formulation should protect IJs while maintaining their viability, mobility and infectivity. Encapsulation and hydrogel systems can improve protection, whereas clay-based formulations may reduce desiccation losses. Such technologies are particularly valuable under hot and dry field conditions (Cruz-Mart&iacute;nez et al., 2017; Perry et al., 2012).
Factors affecting field performance EPN efficacy is influenced by temperature, soil moisture, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, soil texture, crop canopy and host stage. Adequate moisture is essential for nematode movement, while drought and direct sunlight can reduce survival and infectivity. Therefore, selection of locally adapted strains, appropriate application rates and proper timing against susceptible pest stages are important for effective control (Shapiro-Ilan et al., 2015).
EPNs in Integrated Pest Management &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; EPNs are valuable components of integrated pest management (IPM) rather than complete substitutes for insecticides. Effective use involves pest monitoring, targeting susceptible stages and integrating EPNs with cultural practices, resistant cultivars, pheromone-based monitoring and conservation of natural enemies. Where chemical control is necessary, selective insecticides compatible with EPNs and other biological control agents should be considered (Koppenhofer et al., 2020; Tarasco et al., 2023).
Advantages and limitations
Advantages Limitations &bull; Rapid mortality of susceptible insects &bull; Sensitive to desiccation and UV radiation &bull; Useful in IPM programmes &bull; Performance varies with environment &bull; Low conventional pesticide-residue concern &bull; Storage/formulation can be difficult &bull; Can be mass-produced and formulated &bull; Field rates must be optimized economically Future prospects Future research should focus on locally adapted EPN strains, cost-effective mass production, improved formulations and precise delivery. Encapsulation, hydrogels and controlled-release systems may enhance IJ survival under adverse conditions. Studies on compatibility with insecticides and beneficial organisms, along with farmer-field validation and economic assessment, are essential for wider adoption. Molecular tools can further support accurate identification and selection of promising strains.
Conclusion Entomopathogenic nematodes are effective biological agents with potential for managing destructive lepidopteran pests. Their host-seeking ability and symbiosis with bacteria provide a distinctive mode of action. Field success depends on appropriate strain selection, dose, target pest stage, formulation and application timing. Integration with other IPM practices can enhance their reliability and contribute to sustainable and environmentally safer crop protection.
References
Lacey, L.A. and Georgis, R. 2012. Entomopathogenic nematodes for control of insect pests above and below ground with comments on commercial production. Journal of Nematology 44: 218&ndash;225.
Shapiro-Ilan, D.I., Han, R. and Dolinski, C. 2012. Entomopathogenic nematode production and application technology. Journal of Nematology 44: 206&ndash;217.
Shapiro-Ilan, D.I., Hazir, S. and Lete, L. 2015. Viability and virulence of entomopathogenic nematodes &nbsp; &nbsp;exposed to ultraviolet radiation. Journal of Nematology 47: 184&ndash;189.
Kour, S., Singh, R. and Ohri, P. 2021. Evaluation of biocontrol potential of Steinernema thermophilum formulation (Biogel) against some important lepidopteran crop pests. Indian Journal of Nematology 51: 61&ndash;66.