ARS | Publication request: Group dynamics of entomopathogenic nematodes: What we can learn from the slithering herd?

Submitted to: National Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: September 15, 2007
Publication Date: December 7, 2007
Citation: Lewis, E.E., Heish, F., Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Stevens, G., Campbell, J.F. 2007. Group dynamics of entomopathogenic nematodes: What we can learn from the slithering herd? (abstract). National Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting, San Diego, CA, December 7-12, 2007.

Technical Abstract: We employed logistical regression modeling and a group-event history model to describe the group dynamics of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) in the context of risk sensitive foraging. When confronted with the decision of whether or not to invade hosts of varying quality, we argue that to invade a host that is not already infected is a “risk-prone” foraging decision. We will discuss the risks and rewards of various infection decisions by EPNs. Further, it is likely that infection decisions have great influence on the distribution of EPNs in the field.