ARS | Publication request: Stability issues: maintenance of beneficial traits in entomopathogenic nematodes

Submitted to: International Congress of Nematology
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: September 1, 2008
Publication Date: September 1, 2008
Citation: Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Gaugler, R., Adams, B. 2008. Stability issues: maintenance of beneficial traits in entomopathogenic nematodes [abstract]. 5th International Congress of Nematology, July 13-18, 2008, Brisbane, Australia. p. 167. Available: http://www.ifns.org/pdf/ABSTRACTS_for_51CN_2008.pdf.

Interpretive Summary: In this paper we summarize our research on understanding and overcoming a key problem in biological pest control, i.e., the loss of beneficial traits during mass culture. A number of beneficial traits such as virulence, reproductive potential, and environmental tolerance are key factors in determining an organism’s ability to produce high levels of efficacy in biological pest control. Deterioration or loss of beneficial traits during laboratory or industrial culture production is detrimental to biocontrol efficacy. Entomopathogenic nematodes (also known as beneficial nematodes) are useful organisms that are used as environmentally friendly natural bio-pesticides for controlling insect pests. During mass production, entomopathogenic nematodes and their bacteria partners can undergo change, which contributes to reduction in beneficial traits. Changes in nematode beneficial traits may be due to genetic or non-genetic (e.g., nutritional) causes. Methods to deter trait deterioration include maintenance or improvement of media, creation of selected inbred lines, or improved cryopreservation techniques.

Technical Abstract: A number of beneficial traits such as virulence, reproductive potential, and environmental tolerance are key factors in determining an organism’s ability to produce high levels of efficacy in biological control. Deterioration or loss of beneficial traits during laboratory or industrial culture production is detrimental to biocontrol efficacy. During in vivo production, both partners in the nematode-bacterium complex can undergo change, which contributes to reduction in beneficial traits. The nematode’s bacterial symbiont also deteriorates when repeatedly cultured in vitro. Changes in nematode beneficial traits may be due to genetic or non-genetic (e.g., nutritional) causes. Methods to deter trait deterioration include maintenance or improvement of media, creation of selected inbred lines, or improved cryopreservation techniques.