nematop®

NEMATODES AGAINST WEEVIL LARVAE

The product nematop® contains entomopathogenic nematodes of the species Heterorhabditis bacteriophora for effective and biological control of weevil larvae (Otiorhynchus spp.) in the soil.

Active ingredient	Heterorhabditis bacteriophora
Formulation	Wettable powder
Package sizes	50, 100, 250, 500 mio.
Shelf life	6 weeks
Listings	OMRI, FiBL

APPLICATION OF NEMATOP®

nematop® is effective against weevil larvae and pupae. The application timing for should therefore be chosen in accordance to the relevant life cycle of the pest. For the control of black vine weevil in Europe this would be April/May and from August until October. Soil temperatures should stay above 12°C at daytime.

nematop® can be applied using conventional spraying equipment, as a drench by dipping or through drip irrigation. Apply 500,000 nematodes per m² for soil, 10,000 nematodes per liter of substrate for container cultures and 25,000 nematodes per plant for strawberries.

In times with lower temperatures nemamax® can be used, which contains the cold-active nematode species Heterorhabditis downesi.

EPN application via drip irrigation in nurseries

MODE OF ACTION

The active ingredient is the entomopathogenic nematode Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, a naturally occurring enemy of weevil larvae. The nematodes enter the larva through natural body openings and invade the insect body cavity. They release symbiotic bacteria that multiply and kill the larva. While feeding on the bacteria, the nematodes reproduce. After two weeks, thousands of new nematodes emerge and search for further prey. This creates a lasting effect of the nematodes in the soil.

Black vine weevil larvae in the soil

EFFICACY OF NEMATOP®

In several trials carried out by research stations in France, Germany and UK using nematop® to control Black vine weevil in yews, rhododendron and strawberries efficacy of > 80% on average have been achieved. Infected larvae turn red and are easy to distinguish from living ones.

nematop® is compatible with most chemical plant protection compounds, fertilizers and other beneficial insects. More information about the compatibility of nematodes can be found here:

EPN Compatibility