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Updated: Nov 8, 2025

Soil Sampling and Isolation of Entomopathogenic Nematodes Steinernematidae, Heterorhabditidae
Published on: July 11, 2014
Chemical host-seeking cues of entomopathogenic nematodes
Xi Zhang1, Lu Li1, Lucie Kesner2
1Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Biology, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China.
Abstract:
Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are obligate parasites that infect a broad range of insect species. Host-seeking is a crucial step for EPN infection success and survival. Yet, the identity and ecological functions of chemicals involved in host-seeking by EPNs remain overlooked. In this review, we report known CO2, plant-derived and insect-derived cues shaping EPN host-seeking and recognition. Despite species-specific response to environmental cues, we highlight a hierarchical integration of chemicals by EPNs. We further emphasize the impact of EPN selection pressure, age, and experience on their responsiveness to infochemicals. Finally, we feature that EPN chemical ecology can translate into powerful sustainable strategies to control insect herbivores in agriculture.
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