Entomopathogenic and Insect Parasitic Nematodes

Abstract

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) in the genera Steinernema and Heterorhabditis with their associated bacteria, Xenorhabdus spp. and Photorhabdus spp., are lethal parasites of different life stages of various insects, especially soil dwelling one. They inhabit most terrestrial habitats. From a historical perspective, studies on insect pathogenic nematodes in Iran were started in the late 1990s, when first attempts were done for isolation and identification of these entomopathogens. Herein, we provide a short overview of selected literature about the Iranian fauna of entomopathogenic and entomoparasitic nematodes and their application in laboratory, greenhouse and field. We discussed the possible contribution, challenges, and opportunity of these natural enemies for application in biological control of insect pest in IPM program.