DETERMINATION OF ENTOMOPATHOGENIC NEMATODE FAUNA IN ŞIRNAK, TURKIYE

Abstract

This study focuses on the isolation, identification, and characterization of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) in Şırnak Province, Turkey. Between July and September 2023, we collected 256 soil samples, from which 11 EPN isolates were successfully recovered,representing a 4.3% of the samples. These isolates were identified using morphological examinations and molecular diagnostics, including mitochondrial COI and 18S rDNA gene regions. Our findings revealed a diverse population of EPNs, predominantly Heterorhabditis bacteriophora with five isolates, alongside four Steinernema species (one Steinernema carpocapsae, one Steinernema affine, and two Steinernema sp.). Phylogenetic analysis, employing the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COXI) and the 18S rDNA gene regions, indicated low genetic variability within H. bacteriophora and greater diversity among Steinernema species. The study contributes significant insights into the EPN biodiversity in Şırnak Province and underscores the potential of these nematodes in biological pest control, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides. The results highlight the importance of local EPN isolates in the development of effective biological control strategies and the conservation of agricultural biodiversity.