First assessment of entomopathogenic fungi and nematodes in hot springs in central Italy and first record of Pristionchus uniformis for the country

Geothermal soils in Central Italy are characterized by high temperatures (up to 60°C), low pH values, and sparse vegetation. The biodiversity of entomopathogenic soil fungi nematodes has never been assessed these areas. Soil samples (N = 12) separated from each other at least 100 meters were collected the areas Le Biancane Natural Park (Grosseto) Sasso Pisano (Pisa). Galleria bait method was used assess presence nematodes. A total nine species one nematode isolated molecularly identified. All came immediate surroundings geothermal spring, apart Beauveria pseudobassiana about 16 nearest spring. Moreover, Pristionchus uniformis previously reported only North America few European countries is recorded for first time Italy.