Nematological Reviews: Use of the Entomogenous Nematode, Neoaplectana carpocarpsae Weiser (Steinernematidae: Rhabditida), in Latin America

Abstract

The present report was prepared to collect and analyze the literature dealing with the testing of Neoaplectana carpocapsae against insect pests of Latin America. A total of 97 species of Latin American insects from 11 orders were shown to be susceptible to N. carpocapsae. Native strains of N carpocapsae occur in Latin America and these and isolates from other parts of the world should be tested against economically important insect pests in Latin America. The infective stages of N. carpocapsae occur in the soil and will be most effective against soil-inhabiting insects. Since rapid desiccation will destroy the infective stages in a short period, application of N. carpocapsae to exposed surfaces should be done with an additive to retard water loss. Field trials show that N. carpocapsae has real potential for use as a biological control agent in pest management programs.