Efficacy of the entomopathogenic nematode isolates against Spodoptera littoralis (Boisduval) and Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Abstract Background Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), as biological control agents, have been isolated from many regions throughout the world. Local isolates of EPNs are usually more effective for controlling indigenous insect pests they adapted to local environmental conditions and pest species. Results In present work, EPN were searched in soil under citrus guava trees, Egyptian clover at Noubaria region, Elbhaira governorate, Egypt, within two consecutive years. The positive samples ( Trifolium alexandrinum ) (TAN5) trees Psidium guajava (PGN6), while not existent citrus. Laboratory applications against cotton leafworm, Spodoptera littoralis Boisd.), black cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon (Hufn.) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), recorded. Nematodes naturally occurring trapped by full-grown larvae greater wax moth Galleria mellonella L.). Infected turned whitish beige dark reddish color, proofed that these belong genus Heterorhabditis. results revealed mortality rate ranges 24 100% with TAN5 18 96% PGN6 A. larvae. LC 50 values 1285.527 1560.747 IJs/cup, those S. 1339.099 2531.605 IJs/cup pupae, respectively. 3 rd instar sensitive than pupae. Production Heterorhabditis sp. strain was highest reproduction infective juveniles all concentrations. Conclusions belonged . collected region most both tested pests, species would serve an alternative chemical pesticides fit well integrated management program adults pupae economic which inhabit soil.