The parasitic impact of Romanomermis iyengari Welch (Nematoda: Mermithidae) on the survival and biology of the common mosquito, Culex pipiens L. (Diptera: Culicidae)

The extensive use of chemical insecticides to control mosquitoes led the development insecticide resistance and environmental health hazards. This caused a surge in interest eco-friendly biocontrol agents. present study aimed explore susceptibility different instar larvae common mosquito, Culex pipiens Linnaeus, 1758, mermithid nematode, Romanomermis iyengari Welch, 1964. Moreover, effects R. on mosquito pupal developmental time, adult emergence, longevity, female fecundity, as well egg-hatching rate were determined after larval treatment with an LC50 quantity nematode pre-parasites. Different instars Cx. (1st–4th) exposed separately at concentrations 1–6 pre-parasites/mosquito larva. Mortality rates observed values calculated. estimated for 1st–4th 3.18, 2.73, 3.79 4 pre-parasites/larva, respectively. Mean percent mortality ranged from 10–94%, 16–100%, 4–100% 0–52%, results indicated that exposure 4th pre-parasites significantly prolonged duration development, reduced percentage emerged adults fecundity compared control. In contrast, longevity did not differ between group. conclusion, this isolate could be promising agent Egyptian pipiens. Other trials are required assess potential parasite field conditions.