The potential of entomopathogenic nematodes to biological control of Cydalima perspectalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) as biological control agents of pests offer an environmentally safe alternative. Advances in mass-production and formulation technology of EPNs, the discovery of numerous efficacious isolates, and the desirability of reducing pesticide usage have resulted in a surge of scientific and commercial interest in these nematodes. This paper will review the successful use of EPNs for the control of insect pests above ground in the world. So, the efficacy of two native isolates of EPNs was evaluated against Cydalima perspectalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in laboratory conditions. The lethal concentration 50 (LC50) values of the Steinernema borjomiense and Oscheius myriophilus were 60.16 and 74.53 IJs/larva-1 on fifth instar larvae of C. perspectalis, respectively, after 48 hours at 25 °C and 60% relative humidity. These results revealed the good potential of EPNs in the biological control of C. perspectalis. In the field of biological pest control using EPNs in the country, in addition to the need for breakthroughs in the identification of EPNs isolates with high pathogenicity as well as formulation technology, the use of EPNs will need to be furthered through education, major changes in insecticides use pattern, legislative and further restrictions on chemical pesticides by organizations.