Survey of 15 sites over 28 months for entomopathogenic nematodes (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae)

Abstract

SUMMARY The presence of entomopathogenic nematodes in soil from 15 sites on 10 sampling occasions over a period of 28 months was documented. Sites were chosen to represent habitats classified as heathland, hedgerow, roadside verge, pasture or woodland. Bioassays utilized Galleria larvae and most of the nematodes obtained were identified as Steinernema (= Neoaplectana) bibionis (Bovien). A sibling species which fails to interbreed with S. bibionis was also found at 2 of the sites. Bioassays were at 15 and 20°C and there was no significant difference in the results at these temperatures. There was no evidence for seasonality in the presence of the nematodes and at 2 sites they were found on every sampling occasion. Otherwise, sites converted unpredictably from positive to negative or negative to positive over the 28-month sampling period.