Formulation of Entomopathogenic Nematodes

Abstract

Entomopathogenic nematodes in the genera Steinernema and Heterorhabditis are commercially available for the control of soil-inhabiting insects. Stable formulations have been achieved by immobilizing and/or partially desiccating infective stage (IJ) nematodes. These formulations allowed introduction of nematode products with acceptable shelf-life into various market segments. A breakthrough in nematode formulation was accomplished with the development of a unique water dispersible granular formulation that allows nematodes to enter into a hydrobiotic state extending nematode survival and pathogenicity for up to 6 months at 4-25 degrees C and up to 8 wks at 30 degrees C. This formulation is easy and quick to apply and is well suited for a wide variety of agricultural and horticulture applications.