Status of entomopathogenic nematodes in integrated pest management strategies in Poland.

Abstract

Abstract The entomophilic nematodes (EPNs) infect many different types of soil insects, including the larval forms of butterflies, moths, beetles and flies, as well as adult crickets and grasshoppers. EPNs can be cultured easily in vitro; have a high reproductive potential; have a broad host range; are safe for plants, animal health and the environment; can be applied easily using standard spray equipment; have the potential to be recycled in the environment; are compatible with many chemical pesticides; are easy to mass produce; and have long-term efficacy. This chapter focuses on the above-mentioned attributes in relation to Polish research. It aims are to indicate the usefulness of EPNs in vegetable crops cultivated both in the field and under cover, as well as in arable crops, municipal green zones, orchards and others (e.g. against stable flies such as Musca domestica). Research on EPNs in Poland began in the 1980s, and in this short period EPNs have become widely accepted as biological agents for the control of soil-dwelling and foliage pests of many crops in glasshouses, in fields, in shelterbelt urban areas and in orchards. In Poland, ∼30% of vegetables are produced under integrated pest management. EPNs in the control of Scarabaeidae are still not proven efficacious, as noted by the Polish research centres. Additionally, new target pests have been identified, as in mushroom or poultry production.