A review of insect-parasitic nematodes research in India: 1927-1997

In the last 70 years, over 100 articles have been published on mermithid nematodes from a wide range of insects. More than 16 species of allantonematids have been reported from insects within the orders Coleoptera, Thysanoptera, Lepidoptera and Hymenoptera. Howardula species have been studied in detail on thrips and beetles, but the data obtained are insufficient to allow us to conclude whether or not these nematodes are potential biocontrol agents. Research on entomopathogenic nematodes started in 1966 and much of the available information is on the DD 136 strain of Steinernema carpocapsae. Critical information on the entomopathogenic nematode fauna of India, and on their efficacy under field conditions, is not available. A review of the overall progress made in India on nematodes as biocontrol agents of insects reveals a lack of research focus and direction. This paper summarizes progress to date and suggests ways of encouraging the use of nematodes as bioinsecticides in India.

Keywords:

• Insect Pests
• Biological Control
• Nematodes
• India