Entomopathogenic Nematodes for Sustainable Thrips Control in Nectarine Cultivation: Efficacy, Pollinator Safety, and Integrated Pest Management Strategies
Evangelos Moutsaras | Aikaterini Gerasimatou | Athanasios Antonopoulos | Christina Panopoulou | Dimitrios Lazarakis | Antonios Tsagkarakis
The efficacy of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), <i>Steinernema feltiae</i> and <i>Heterorhabditis bacteriophora</i>, for controlling <i>Frankliniella occidentalis</i> (Thysanoptera: Thripidae, Pergande, 1895) in nectarine orchards, was evaluated, alongside their potential impact on honeybees (<i>Apis mellifera</i>, Hymenoptera: Apidae, Linnaeus, 1785). Field trials revealed that <i>S. feltiae</i> significantly reduced thrips populations and fruit damage compared to the control, while <i>H. bacteriophora</i> showed no significant effect. The reduction in feeding scars on fruits from <i>S. feltiae</i>–treated trees underscores its potential as a sustainable biocontrol agent. However, laboratory bioassays indicated that another EPN, <i>Steinernema carpocapsae</i>, induced delayed mortality in honeybees under high-exposure conditions, pinpointing the need for careful application to minimize risks to pollinators. These findings demonstrate the potential of <i>S. feltiae</i> for integrated pest management (IPM) in nectarine cultivation while emphasizing the importance of species-specific selection and pollinator safety. Future research should focus on optimizing application methods, understanding environmental influences on EPN efficacy, and assessing long-term impacts on pollinator health to ensure sustainable pest management practices.
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