The Isolation, Identification, and Insecticidal Activities of Indigenous Entomopathogenic Nematodes (Steinernema carpocapsae) and Their Symbiotic Bacteria (Xenorhabdus nematophila) against the Larvae of Pieris brassicae

The cabbage butterfly, Pieris brassicae Linnaeus (Lepidoptera: Pieridae), is an oligophagous and invasive insect pest of various economically important cole crops. Recently, there have been reports about increase in the incidence damaging activities butterflies, signifying that existing control methods fail to meet grower’s expectations. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) their endosymbiotic bacteria immense potential for a wide range pests. In this investigation, EPN species Steinernema carpocapsae its associated bacterial species, Xenorhabdus nematophila, were isolated identified through morphological molecular techniques. laboratory bioassay experiment was performed using S. X. nematophila against 3rd instar larvae P. (25 ± 1 °C; RH = 60%). efficacy suspension (30, 60, 90, 120, 150 IJs/mL) (1 × 104, 2 3 4 5 104 CFU/mL) via contact oral routes showed significant mortality among larvae. Surprisingly, 100% within 48 h recorded inoculum CFU/mL. However, case EPNs (S. carpocapsae), IJs/mL caused highest, 92%, larval rate after 96 h. results signify both indigenous can provide efficient could effectively contribute IPM programs. further analyses are required authenticate effectiveness field conditions.