Publication Type: | Journal Article |
: | 2010 |
Authors: | D. E. Ennis, Dillon, A. B., Griffin, C. T. |
Journal: | Journal of Invertebrate Pathology |
Volume: | 103 |
Pagination: | 140-143 |
Date Published: | February |
: | 0022-2011 |
: | Steinernema carpocapsae can be effective against root-feeding insects despite its reputation as a sedentary ambusher. In pot experiments, using twigs as surrogate roots and pine weevil larvae as targets, we tested the hypothesis that roots serve as physical routeways and conduits of feeding-associated stimuli, thus enhancing the success of S. carpocapsae applied at the surface against subterranean hosts. Insect mortality was lowest (25%) in the absence of plant material, increased to 48% when twigs linked nematodes and insects, and further increased to 69% when the insects were allowed feed on the twigs. This is the first experimental support for the root-routeway hypothesis. |