Pathogenicity of entomopathogenic nematodes to dipteran leaf miners, house flies and mushroom flies

Abstract Background The entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), especially in the 2 families Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae, are important biocontrol agents against insect pests. leaf miners (Fam.: Agromyzidae) cosmopolitan There more than 330 Liriomyza spp. including 20 species that have been reported as economically pests of field crops, ornamentals vegetables. house flies serious for human animals. More 100 animal diseases associated with flies. Mushroom (phorid sciarid families) among main arthropod affecting cultivation mushroom throughout world. Results Virulence EPNs differed clearly even on same and/or by nematode species. Such differences might be attributed to method treatment, age stage well concentrations tested nematodes. Laboratory studies revealed proved moderate highly virulent larvae percentage mortality reached 100%. As pupae, some their or high susceptibility nematodes, whereas others showed low resistance infection. Treated adults, those emerged from treated also susceptible Conclusion virulence 3 dipteran families. Semi-field trials indicated they could successfully reduce populations insects without affect others.