Evaluation of Entomopathogenic nematodes against Termites

Abstract

The potential efficacy of three species of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN), Steinernema siamkayai, S. pakistanense and Heterorhabditis indica, against subterranean termites was tested under laboratory conditions. In sand assay method, S. pakistanense showed significant results revealed that cent percent mortality of both Reticulitermes flavipes and Odontotermis hornei within 24 h than S. siamkayai and H. indica occurred 48hrs at the rate of 250IJs/ml. A positive correlation was found between dosages as well as exposure time and mortality. Probit analysis indicated that S. pakistanense required less number (5IJs/termites) and less time (20h) against R. flavipes and whereas O. hornei, required less number (5.84IJs/termites) and less time (15.5h).In H. indica required less number (5IJs/termites) and less time (20h) against R. flavipes and whereas O. hornei, required less number (5IJs/termites) and less time (19.8h). S. pakistanense more predominant species in our studies both mortality, and offspring production within termites as host.