Abstract
Combined effect of substerilizing doses of gamma radiation (40 and 100 Gy) and different concentrations of the entomopathogenic nematode, Steinernema carpocapsae BA2 (20 and 40 IJs/ml) on the hemocyte count of the greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella (L.) larvae was studied. Eight types of hemocytes were described in the hemolymph of the normal larvae of G. mellonella. Prohemocytes were the predominant type, while the cystocytes were the rare ones. Morphological malformations and changes in the number of each hemocyte type were observed in F1 larvae (of irradiated male parent pupae with 40 or 100 Gy) or larvae treated with different concentrations of the S. carpocapsae BA2 (normal or F1 larvae); these alterations were increased by increasing the radiation dose or the nematode concentration that led to increase the susceptibility of the larvae to the nematode. Therefore, it could be concluded that integration of entomopathogenic nematodes and gamma radiation may serve as integrated control program for G. mellonella.
Highlights
Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are a welcome addition to the natural-enemy arsenal
Total hemocyte count (THC) Total number of hemocytes of G. mellonella larvae decreased gradually by increasing the dose of radiation applied to parent male pupae as compared to the control (Table 1)
After nematode treatments (20 and 40 Infective juveniles of S. carpocapsae (IJs)/ml), the total hemocyte counts decreased significantly and more decreases occurred when they applied to First progeny from irradiated male parent pupae (F1) larvae of irradiated parent male pupae (40 and 100 Gy)
Summary
Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are a welcome addition to the natural-enemy arsenal. They are generally specific on insects, not environmentally hazardous, compatible with other biological and chemical agents, can seek pests in cryptic habitats, and can be commercially produced in large quantities (Gaugler and Kaya 1990, Laznik et al 2012, Laznik and Trdan 2017). The use of irradiation technique as a Combining EPNs with gamma radiation has resulted in successful control strategies (Salem et al 2008; Sayed 2008, 2011; and Sayed et al 2015). Salem et al Egyptian Journal of Biological Pest Control (2020) 30:48 The hemocytes of insects have been reported to play a role in cellular defense against foreign materials by phagocytosis or encapsulation; they may be concerned in the formation of connective tissue and activation of prothoracic gland before molting (Charles 1971).
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