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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Byron, Georgia » Fruit and Tree Nut Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #423073
Research Project: Novel Approaches for Managing Key Pests of Peach and Pecan

Location: Fruit and Tree Nut Research

Title: Semiochemicals enhancing entomopathogenic nematodes efficacy in pest management

Author
item PERIER, JERMAINE - University Of Georgia
item KAPLAN, FATMA - Pheronym, Inc
item LEWIS, EDWIN - University Of Idaho
item Kropf, Abigail
item Elsensohn, Johanna
item TOEWS, MICHEAL - University Of Georgia
item Shapiro Ilan, David

Submitted to: Green Chemistry
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/3/2025
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) in the families Steinernematidae and Heterohabditidae are commonly used as biological control agents in pest management programs. EPNs can reduce grower reliance on conventional insecticide applications and are not considered to negatively impact the ecosystems in which they are deployed. Recent advances in the ability of semiochemicals to enhance the efficacy and consistency of commercial EPN strains may encourage wider adoption of EPNs in integrated pest management programs. This chapter highlights the role of biochemical stimuli in EPN ecology and discusses their potential to increase nematode dispersal, survival, and infectivity of target pests, ultimately enhancing their effectiveness as a biocontrol agent.