Ecology, Adaptation, and Parasitism of Entomopathogenic Nematodes

Abstract

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are a distinct group of insect parasitic nematodes widely used in biological pest control. Nematodes in Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae have a mutual association with pathogenic bacteria of Enterobacteriaceae family to kill insect hosts rapidly. In this book chapter, we would like to address the effect of ecology, behavior, symbiosis, and parasitism of EPNs for their entomopathogenic potential under field conditions in positive and negative way. Hence, this chapter will focus on four objectives—(1) The impact of biotic and abiotic factors in abundance, dispersal and persistence of EPNs, (2) the finding behavior of EPNs, (3) EPN adaptation strategies for survival during stress conditions, and (4) nature of nematode-bacterium symbiotic relationship and their role in killing insect pests. Through a comprehensive literature review and analysis, this chapter will contribute much to the existing knowledge on EPNs, emphasizing their ecological significance and the potential implications for sustainable pest control practices.