Mechanized in vivo Production of Entomopathogenic Nematodes: Expanding Biocontrol Utility

Due to environmental and regulatory concerns, research and development of non-chemical alternatives for pest suppression is necessary. Entomopathogenic nematodes are environmentally friendly biocontrol agents that can suppress a wide variety of economically important insect pests including white grubs, root weevils, and clearwing moth borers. Commercialization of these nematodes, however, has not reached its potential. Our challenge is to overcome two critical barriers: 1) excessive production costs, and 2) variable efficacy in field applications. In vivo production technology is a well-suited approach for small businesses to produce quality nematode products. The costs of producing in vivo however, are high relative to in vitro approaches due to the expense of insect hosts and labor. In response, we propose developing a completely automated processes including production of improved insect host media, host inoculation, nematode harvest and packaging. The project is focused on producing nematodes in mealworms. In Phase I, we determined the basic requirements for mechanized production and established feasibility of the process. The next steps (in Phase II) will be to refine and further optimize nutritional aspects of insect and nematode production, development of scaled up prototypes for mechanization, and expanded pest control efficacy testing. This research will lead to development of a powerful biocontrol technology for suppression of arthropod pests. Nematode production costs will decrease and product utility will be expanded in various crops. Once proven successful, the system can be adapted to use with other insect hosts or production of other microbial or arthropod biocontrol agents, the potential is vast.