Conservation of entomopathogenic nematodes in agroecosystems

Conservation biological control (CBC) is a pest-management approach based on manipulation of the environment to promote pest suppression by naturally occurring natural enemies. This chapter reviews information relevant to factors that affect entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) as CBC agents within the framework of soil health and soil health management principles. Valuable insights for predicting where CBC with EPNs should be possible have been gained from laboratory, greenhouse and feld experiments, and from biogeographical surveys that include environmental information. Even so, a remaining challenge is the general lack of reporting on the relationship between the effect of management and environmental factors on changes in EPN prevalence, biological control services, and the suppression of target pests or improvements in crop yield, quality or proftability. New and emerging technologies offer powerful tools to elucidate and manipulate EPN and plant characteristics. Research that builds on current knowledge and combines traditional and new techniques will likely provide a fuller understanding of the complexity of interactions in soil food webs that can be used to improve our ability to use EPNs in CBC programs.