Effectiveness of the Entomopathogenic Nematodes Heterorhabditis bacteriophora and Steinernema feltiae against Tenebrio molitor (Yellow Mealworm) Larvae in Different Soil Types at Different Temperatures

Authors: ALPER SUSURLUK

Abstract: The efficiency of the entomopathogenic nematodes Steinernema feltiae Tur-S3 and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora Tur-H2, isolated in Turkey, against larvae of Tenebrio molitor L. was investigated in different soil type and temperature conditions. Sterilized and non-sterilized silver sand, clay-loam soil, and compost soil were tested, each at 12, 18, and 24 ºC. Temperature had the greatest effect on the mortality of T. molitor larvae caused by both nematode species. The efficiency of the 2 nematodes was greater in sterile than in nonsterile conditions, and was greater in sandy soils than in clay soils. The results showed that Steinernema feltiae was more efficient than H. bacteriophora at all temperatures tested, especially at 12 ºC.

Keywords: Biological control, Entomopathogenic nematodes, Tenebrio molitor, Soil type, Temperature

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