title: Simulated roots and host feeding enhance infection of subterranean insects by the entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema carpocapsae.
abstract: Steinernema carpocapsae can be effective against root-feeding insects despite its reputation as a sedentary ambusher. In pot experiments, using twigs as surrogate roots and pine weevil larvae as targets, we tested the hypothesis that roots serve as physical routeways and conduits of feeding-associated stimuli, thus enhancing the success of S. carpocapsae applied at the surface against subterranean hosts. Insect mortality was lowest (25%) in the absence of plant material, increased to 48% when twigs linked nematodes and insects, and further increased to 69% when the insects were allowed feed on the twigs. This is the first experimental support for the root-routeway hypothesis.
authors.affiliation: Department of Biology, National University of Ireland Maynooth, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland. darraghennis@gmail.com
authors.forename: D E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Ennis
authors.forename: A B
authors.initials: AB
authors.lastname: Dillon
authors.forename: C T
authors.initials: CT
authors.lastname: Griffin
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D005247:Feeding Behavior / Q000502:physiology*; D006790:Host-Parasite Interactions / Q000502:physiology; D009348:Nematoda / Q000472:pathogenicity* / Q000502:physiology; D018517:Plant Roots; D048889:Weevils / Q000469:parasitology* / Q000502:physiology*