Development of a new application apparatus for entomopathogenic nematodes

This paper describes the assessment of nematode spray application methods and details the redesign of a spinning disc applicator for the improved application of the infective juveniles of entomopathogenic nematodes to foliage. The assessment highlighted fundamental design features that prevent efficient and accurate nematode application and these are dealt with in turn specifically to enable improved nematode application. The redesigned or prototype spinning disc was shown to improve nematode carriage in droplets, leading to greater deposition of nematodes per unit area. There is a trade-off between spray droplet coverage of the target surface and the production of a suitable droplet spectrum for nematode carriage.