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Isolation and Selection of Entomopathogenic Fungi from Soil Samples and Evaluation of Fungal Virulence against Insect Pests
Published on: September 28, 2021
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Entomopathogenic Nematode Compatibility with Vineyard Fungicides
Raquel Campos-Herrera1, Elizabeth Carpentero1, Miguel Puelles1
1Departamento de Viticultura, Instituto de Ciencias de la Vid y del Vino (CSIC, Gobierno de La Rioja, Universidad de La Rioja), Finca La Grajera, Logroño, Spain.
Journal of Nematology
|November 29, 2023
Summary
Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are vital for sustainable vineyards. While some fungicides harm EPNs, one species showed full compatibility, suggesting potential for integrated pest management in viticulture.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Entomology
- Nematology
- Sustainable Viticulture
Background:
- Vineyards face environmental challenges from conventional agrochemical use.
- Biological control agents like entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are crucial for sustainable viticulture.
- EPN efficacy depends on compatibility with commonly used vineyard fungicides.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of authorized grapevine fungicides on EPN survival and virulence.
- To determine compatibility between two EPN populations and five different fungicides.
Main Methods:
- Tested two EPN populations (Steinernema feltiae 107 and S. carpocapsae 'All').
- Evaluated compatibility with three organic (Bacillus pumilus, sulfur, copper oxychloride) and two synthetic fungicides (Trifloxystrobin, Mancozeb).
- Assessed EPN viability and sublethal effects on virulence post-fungicide exposure.
Main Results:
- Steinernema feltiae 107 viability reduced by sulfur and copper oxychloride; virulence affected by copper oxychloride and Mancozeb.
- S. carpocapsae 'All' showed full compatibility with all tested fungicides, with no impact on viability or virulence.
- Fungicides could potentially be co-applied with EPNs if applied on the same day.
Conclusions:
- Fungicide choice is critical for maintaining EPN efficacy in vineyards.
- Steinernema carpocapsae 'All' is a compatible biological control agent with tested fungicides.
- Further research on multi-target interactions is needed for successful co-application strategies.

