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ARS Home » Pacific West Area » Hilo, Hawaii » Daniel K. Inouye U.S. Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center » Tropical Plant Genetic Resources and Disease Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #412111
Research Project: Crop Health and Genetic Improvement of Sub-Tropical and Tropical Crops in the Pacific

Location: Tropical Plant Genetic Resources and Disease Research

Title: Injection of entomopathogenic nematodes in tropical fruit trees for xylophagous pest management

Author
item Myers, Roxana
item Mello, Cathy
item Matsumoto Brower, Tracie

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/15/2024
Publication Date: 4/10/2024
Citation: Myers, R.Y., Mello, C.L., Matsumoto Brower, T.K. 2024. Injection of entomopathogenic nematodes in tropical fruit trees for xylophagous pest management. Meeting Abstract. 67.

Interpretive Summary: N/A

Technical Abstract: Queensland long-horned beetle (QLB) is a newly introduced invasive species in Hawaii with a broad host range. The larvae, up to 5 cm in length, cause structural damage in tropical trees by feeding and tunnelling through trunks and branches. Xylophagous pests, such as QLB, are challenging to control due to the cryptic habitats where they reside. Whereas chemical and biological insecticides are unable to directly target these pests within their galleries, entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) can effectively navigate the tunnels and hunt down beetle larvae. A compounded benefit is observed when subsequent generations of nematodes emerge from infected cadavers to hunt additional larvae within the tree. This discussion will focus on the treatment of tropical fruit trees by injection of a local isolate of Heterorhabditis indica. EPNs were injected with a syringe and needle into galleries through openings exuding frass, sawdust, or sap and through areas of spongy bark. The treated tree species included citrus, avocado, cacao, breadfruit, passionfruit, and kukui. The treatment efficacy ranged from slightly effective to highly effective depending on environmental conditions. On days with high humidity, extensive cloud cover, and high moisture levels, treatments were most effective and required no additional reapplication. We will review the best management practices for effective delivery of this technology. As this is the only existing control option for QLB and commercial EPNs are not available in the State of Hawaii, growers are adopting this approach by using EPNs reared by the local invasive species committee or rearing their own from starter cultures.