Research and commercialization progress on entomopathogenic nematodes in China
Author of the article:YAN Xun1** GUO Wen-Xiu2 TIAN Cheng-Li3, 4 LI Xing-Yue5 CHEN Shu-Long6 JIN Yong-Ling7 LI Li-Yi
Author's Workplace:1. Key Laboratory of Green Prevention and Control on Fruits and Vegetables in South China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Agriculture & Biology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China; 2. Shandong Key Laboratory for Green Prevention and Control of Agricultural Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China; 3. Institute of Agricultural Resource and Environment, Jilin Academy of Agricultural Sciences (Northeast Agricultural Research Center of China), Changchun 130033, China; 4. College of Biological Sciences, Liaoning University, Shenyang 110136, China; 5. Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management on Crops in Southwest, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Plant Protection, Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu 610066, China; 6. Institute of Plant Protection, Hebei Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Baoding 071000, China; 7. Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing 163319, China; 8. Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510260, China
Key Words:entomopathogenic nematodes; symbiotic bacteria; identification and classification; commercial production; formulation; field application
Abstract:
Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs),
as parasitic natural enemies of insects that have been commercially applied
internationally and are highly effective against soil-borne and both-boring
pests, have played a significant role in the green management of important
pests in agriculture, forestry, and health since their introduction to China
since the 1960s. Globally, over 150 species of EPNs have been isolated and
identified. In China, 27 species of Steinernema and 6 species of Heterorhabditis have been discovered, including 19 new species of Steinernema and 2 new
species of Heterorhabditis. Research on the symbiotic bacteria of EPNs
has clarified the symbiotic specificity between these bacteria and the
nematodes. Numerous toxins and secondary metabolites with insecticidal,
antibacterial, and nematicidal activities have been identified from these
symbiotic bacteria, demonstrating broad application prospects. The
effectiveness of EPNs in field applications is influenced by environmental
factors. Studies on the environmental tolerance and underlying mechanisms of
EPNs have led to the selection of strains adapted to environmental pressures,
which are being used to control specific pests in different regions. Research
and technological innovations in the cultivation, formulation, preservation,
and application techniques of EPNs have enabled their industrial production in
China. Currently, EPNs have been widely adopted in China for pest control,
achieving remarkable results in managing pests such as the peach fruit moth (Carposina
nipponensis), grubs, and chive maggots (Bradysia odoriphaga) in
Chinese chives. This paper comprehensively reviews the research and development
progress of these nematodes in China on their identification
and classification, industrialization and formulation, symbiotic bacteria,
association with the symbiotic bacteria, applications, environmental tolerance,
and the relationship with abiotic environmental factors.