Native entomopathogenic nematodes for agriculture insect pest management in Nebraska: Identity, phylogeny, persistence, and efficacy

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) can serve as biocontrol tools for pest management in agronomic crops. While testing commercial persistent EPNs for corn root worm management, several native EPNs were found in Nebraska corn fields. This project built upon those findings to investigate what native EPNs present in various Nebraska crop land, whether native EPNs adapt to hosts and environment hence persist in the agroecosystem, and how native EPNs interact with commercial EPNs. In addition, this study aims to culture native EPNs for testing host range and efficacy. Survey of native EPNs were conducted through waxworm baiting and metabarcoding technique. Phylogeny of all EPNs collected in crop land was established. Identifying efficacious native EPNs against key agronomic pests such as corn root worm is in progress.