title: In Vivo Production of Entomopathogenic Nematodes.
abstract: In nature, entomopathogenic nematodes in the genera Heterorhabditis and Steinernema are obligate parasites of insects. The nematodes are used widely as biopesticides for suppression of insect pests. More than a dozen entomopathogenic nematode species have been commercialized for use in biological control. Most nematodes intended for commercial application are produced in artificial media via solid or liquid fermentation. However, for laboratory research and small greenhouse or field trials, in vivo production of entomopathogenic nematodes is the common method of propagation. Additionally, small companies continue to produce nematodes using in vivo methods for application in niche markets. Advances in mechanization and alternative production routes (e.g., production geared toward application of nematodes in infected host cadavers) can improve efficiency and economy of scale. The objective of this chapter is to describe basic and advanced procedures for in vivo production of entomopathogenic nematodes.
authors: Agriculture Research Service, Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Laboratory, United States Department of Agriculture, 21 Dunbar Rd, Byron, GA, USA. David.Shapiro@ars.usda.gov.
authors: David I
authors: DI
authors: Shapiro-Ilan
authors: Biological Control of Pests Research Unit, USDA-ARS NBCL, Stoneville, MS, 38776, USA.
authors: Juan A
authors: JA
authors: Morales-Ramos
authors: Biological Control of Pests Research Unit, USDA-ARS NBCL, Stoneville, MS, 38776, USA.
authors: M Guadalupe
authors: MG
authors: Rojas
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D061046:Biological Control Agents; D007313:Insecta; D009348:Nematoda; D012098:Reproduction
chemical_list: D061046:Biological Control Agents
keywords: Entomopathogenic nematode; Heterorhabditis; In vivo; Production; Steinernema