Bio-efficacy of entomopathogenic nematodes, Steinernema feltiae and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora against the Cabbage butterfly (Pieris brassicae [L.]) under laboratory conditions

Abstract Background Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) have the potential to supersede larvicidal activity for management of various insect pests. Result Lab experiments were conducted test pathogenicity 2 EPNs local species; Steinernema feltiae and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora at different (IJs/cm ) concentrations against cabbage butterfly, Pieris brassicae (L.). The native isolate was obtained from soil samples, collected Rajgarh, Hamachi Pradesh, India. Petri dish bioassay used species ( S. HR1 H. HR2) (0, 10, 20, 40, 80, 160 IJs/cm ). Based on strains, only isolates effectively showed activity. highest (%) (72.08 67.42%), 2nd instar larval mortality recorded in treatments with at160 , respectively. At 4th larvae, respective (85.38, 69.50%) treatment respectively, . In case pupae, rates (62.12, 58.58%) ; (74 12%) both tested EPNs, 80 Percent P. treated EPN significantly higher than untreated control. Results revealed that percent increased increase time periods, being maximum 72 h. bacteriophora, strains potent low concentration even 48 h exposure. Conclusion This study found as a biocontrol agent brassicae.