Entomopathogenic nematodes and fungi to control Hyalesthes obsoletus (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Cixiidae)

Abstract Hyalesthes obsoletus Signoret (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Cixiidae) is a univoltine, polyphagous planthopper that completes its life cycle, including the subterranean nymph cryptic stage, on herbaceous weeds. In vineyards, it can transmit ‘ Candidatus Phytoplasma solani’, an obligate parasitic bacterium associated with bois noir (BN) disease of grapevine, from host plants to grapevine when occasionally feeding latter. The main management strategies are based vector(s) control. Insecticide treatments canopy completely inefficient H. , due cycle. Consequently, control this focuses nymphs living roots their plants. Such practices, herbicide application and/or weed management, reduce vector density in vineyard but impact environment or may not be applicable, highlighting necessity for alternative strategies. study, efficacy entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs; Steinernema carpocapsae S. feltiae Heterorhabditis bacteriophora ) and fungi (EPFs; Beauveria bassiana Metarhizium anisopliae Isaria fumosorosea Lecanicillium muscarium against (EPNs) adults (EPNs EPFs) was assessed under laboratory greenhouse conditions. majority examined EPNs EPFs were able kill exhibiting range effectiveness. (among EPNs) I. found most effective biocontrol agents all trials carried out. Advantages limitations such promising discussed. Ecological competency conditions impede enhance performance should investigated optimize field