Potentialities of mermithid nematodes for the biocontrol of blackflies (Diptera: Simuliidae)—A review

Abstract

Mermithids comprise a family of nematodes which invariably kill/sterilize their insect host(s). These nematodes have considerable potential as biocontrol agents of agricultural insect pests and medically important insect vectors. More specifically, mermithid nematodes appear to regulate natural population of blackflies. The taxonomy of the Mermithidae has been only partially evaluated and the taxonomic status of many representatives is uncertain. At least three mermithid genera and species parasitize North American blackflies, although a more varied mermithid fauna probably exists. The host specificity of mermithid parasites of simuliids is variable, but these nematodes do not appear to infect other stream fauna. The sporadic distribution of mermithid parasites of simuliids among potential biotopes may be associated with a relatively inefficient mode of dispersal for such nematodes. Detailed information is lacking concerning stages in the life cycles of these pathogens and their synchronization with the simuliid host. Mermithids cause pathogenic effects upon several blackfly tissues, although no information is available concerning physiological manifestations of mermithid parasitism in blackflies. A brief review of the present state of knowledge of simuliid taxonomy and bionomics is presented. The physiology of blackflies and their mermithid parasites has been largely ignored. The potentialities of mermithid nematodes for the biocontrol of blackflies are assessed and a feasible research programme presented, in relation to the present state of knowledge of mermithid-simuliid interrelationships and related areas of insect nematology.