Ennis, D.P. and Dillon, A.B. and Griffin, Christine (2010) Simulated roots and host feeding enhance infection of subterranean insects by the entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema carpocapsae. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology, 103 (2). pp. 140-143. ISSN 0022-2011

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Abstract

Steinernema carpocapsae can be effective against root-feeding insects despite its reputation as a sedentary ambusher. In pot experiments, using twigs as surrogate roots and pine weevil larvae as targets, we tested the hypothesis that roots serve as physical routeways and conduits of feeding-associated stimuli, thus enhancing the success of S. carpocapsae applied at the surface against subterranean hosts. Insect mortality was lowest (25%) in the absence of plant material, increased to 48% when twigs linked nematodes and insects, and further increased to 69% when the insects were allowed feed on the twigs. This is the first experimental support for the root-routeway hypothesis.

Item Type:	Article
Keywords:	Steinernema carpocapsae; Hylobius abietis; Entomopathogenic nematodes; Foraging strategy; Host-finding; Vibrations; Roots; Subterranean; Insect feeding;
Academic Unit:	Faculty of Science and Engineering > Biology
Item ID:	7521
Identification Number:	https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2009.11.004
Depositing User:	Dr. Christine Griffin
Date Deposited:	18 Oct 2016 15:00
Journal or Publication Title:	Journal of Invertebrate Pathology
Publisher:	Elsevier
Refereed:	Yes
Funders:	European Regional Development Fund (INTERREG IIIA), National Council for Forest Research and Development (COFORD)
URI:	http://www.sciencedirect.com
Use Licence:	This item is available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Licence (CC BY-NC-SA). Details of this licence are available here

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