Effects of Entomopathogenic Nematodes and Symbiotic Bacteria on Non-target Arthropods
- Sandhi, Ramandeep K. [ Montana State University: Research Centers ]
The concerns over environmental risks of chemical pesticides and their consequences for insect pest control have stimulated the search for alternative control measures such as biological control by entomopathogens. Nematodes of the families Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae are biological control agents that are non-toxic to humans, safer to environment than chemical pesticides, and can easily combined with other control tactics. However, there has always been concern regarding potential non-target effects of these parasitic nematodes. Only a few studies have examined the action of entomopathogenic nematodes on non-target organisms and these cases have shown effects ranging from negligible to harmful. In some cases, these nematodes can cause mortality to non-target organisms, usually on a temporary and restricted area basis. We review herein the direct and indirect effects of entomopathogenic nematodes on non-target organisms, from both laboratory and field studies.