Mass culture and formulation of entomopathogenic nematodes for improved field application against key insect pests in vineyards
PROJECT TITLE: Mass culture and formulation of entomopathogenic nematodes for improved field application against key insect pests in vineyards
Project leader: Antoinette Malan (Stellenbosch University)
Contact: apm@sun.ac.za
Duration: 1 January 2020 – 31 July 2023
Problem identification and project objectives:
Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) have globally proved to be an attractive biological control agent against pest insects, because of their safety and mass culture potential. Significant financial investments into research on EPNs, supported by our main industries in South Africa, have been made during the past decade. Exciting research results have shown the potential of such nematodes against key pests, like false codling moth, codling moth and the banded fruit weevil. However, without continuous research and the training of students on the mass culture and formulation of the biocontrol agents concerned, its future successful implementation, in terms of an integrated pest management system for our different industries, will be compromised. For example, EPNs have been shown to be exceptionally effective against false codling moth, which has recently become a problem in stone fruit and grapevine, with related phytosanitary problems. EPNs are currently commercially cultured in high-volume fermenters, with the formulated product being sold in both Europe and the USA. However, problems experienced with regard to the import of exotic organisms, the retraction of import permits and the cost involved in EPN imports have closed this avenue as an alternative option for the use of EPNs in South Africa. To undertake research in the form of both small and large-scale field trials, large numbers of formulated local nematodes need to be available. The overall aim of the current study will be to find secure techniques for the mass culture and formulation of endemic nematodes, and for delivering the formulated product to other projects for research and field trials.