This page is optimized for Netscape 1.2N

Nematodes as Biological Control Agents of Insects

Nematodes are considered one of the most abundant groups of living animals, and although morphologicall they are very simple, they have exploited a wide range of diverse habitats including invertebrates (Poinar, 1979). Nematodes can parasitize spiders, leeches, annelids, crustaceans, molluscs, and insects. If the entomopathogenic (insect-parasitic) nematode attacks insect pest; kills or hampers the development of the insect host; and is capable of mass production it can be used as an effective biological control agent (Poinar 1979).

In this home page, we will present information on how entomopathogenic nematodes can be used as biological agents of insects and the taxonomy and systematics of these nematodes.

Bibliography of Insect Parasitic Nematodes

Nematodes as Biological Control Agents of Insects

Part 1. Mermithidae

Part 2. Steinernema and Heterorhabditis These nematodes can be used to control garden and lawn insect pests

Send all your questions and comments to: Byron Adams bjadams@crcvms.unl.edu

Plant and Insect Parasitic Nematodes Home Page