Efficacy of entomopathogenic nematodes against the tomato leafminer Tuta absoluta in laboratory and greenhouse conditions

摘要: The tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) is an important pest of crops in South America and it has recently arrived Europe affecting plantations. susceptibility T. larvae pupae to three species entomopathogenic nematodes (Steinernema carpocapsae, Steinernema feltiae Heterorhabditis bacteriophora) was examined under laboratory conditions. Leaf bioassays were conducted evaluate the nematode’s capability reach kill them within galleries. efficacy nematode after foliar application potted plants evaluated greenhouse High larval mortality (78.6–100%) low (<10%) determined experiments. In leaf bioassay a high level parasitation (77.1–91.7%) recorded revealing capacity inside pot experiments treatment reduced insect infection by 87–95%. results demonstrate suitability for controlling absoluta.