Larvanem Beneficial Nematode

Scientific name: Heterorhabditis bacteriophora.

Heterorhabditis bacteriophora is a microscopic species of beneficial nematode, or roundworm, that forms symbiotic relationships Photorhabdus bacteria, known to be pathogenic to a wide range of insects.
The entomopathogenic nematodes, or thread worms, enter soil dwelling insects and larvae through natural openings to deposit the bacteria which feed on the rich lifeblood medium of the host. The bacteria multiply, grow and release toxins and exoenzymes, effectively infecting and killing the insect or larva host within 48 hours. 
The nematodes feed on the bacteria and the remains of the host converted into a nutrient source by the Photorhabdus bacteria, which facilitates reproduction.
When there is insufficient nutrient, the nematodes enter a non feeding, suppressed developmental stage in which they can survive in the soil until they find a new host.
The mutualistic insecticidal complex is efficient in the biological control of ants, fleas, moths, beetles, flies, weevils, amongst other agricultural pests in field or greenhouse crops as a natural enemy.

*Exercise educated caution so beneficial and endemic insects and their larvae are not affected.

Use for:

• Biocontrol of larvae of weevils and other beetles in a wide range of crops.
• Beetles (Coleoptera).
• Weevils (Curculionidae): Black vine weevil (Otiorhynchus sulcatus) and other Otiorhynchus spp.
• White grubs (Scarabaeidae): European chafer (Amphimallon majale), Summer chafer/ June beetle (Amphimallon solstitialis), Amphimallon aestivus, Common cockchafer (Melolontha melolontha), Common garden chafer (Phyllopertha horticola), Phyllophaga spp., Welsh chafer (Hoplia philanthus) and other Hoplia spp., Japanese beetle (Popilia japonica), Oriental beetle (Anomala orientalis), Asiatic garden beetle (Autoserica castanea), Dune chafer (Anomala dubia), Brown chafer (Serica brunnea), Anoxia villosa.
• Dung beetles (Aphodius spp.).
• Leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae).
• Flea beetles (Phyllotreta spp.).
• Caterpillars (Lepidoptera).
• Common swift moth (Korscheltellus lupulina).

Mode of action:

The nematodes enter the pest and release symbiotic bacteria into its body cavity. These bacteria convert the host tissue into a food source, on which nematodes feed, develop and reproduce. This kills the pest within a few hours to days after infection.
Visually, successful control results in infected pest insects in the root zone turning red to brown but may be difficult to find, due to rapid degradation.

Product specifications:

Preparation for use:

• Remove the sachets from the box and keep them at room temperature for 30 minutes.
• Empty the contents of the sachets into a bucket containing at least 2 litres of water per sachet (water temperature: 15°C to 20°C / 59°F to 68°F).
• Stir well and leave the contents to soak for five minutes.
• Stir again and pour the contents of the bucket into the half filled spray tank (except when tank mixing with a compatible product).
• Maintain agitation of mixture in the tank (e.g. with a recirculation pump).
• Fill the spray tank with the required amount of water.
• If tank mixing with a compatible product, add Larvanem at the end to a fully filled tank.
• Apply directly after preparation of spray solution.

Application:

• Nematodes can be applied using a watering can, an air blast sprayer, a vehicle mounted spray unit, a backpack sprayer or through a sprinkler system.
• To avoid blockage, all filters should be removed, especially if finer than 0.3 mm (50 mesh).
• Use a maximum pressure of 20 bar / 290 psi (on nozzle).
• The spray nozzle opening should be at least 0.5 mm (500 microns – 35 mesh) - preferably high flow rate cone nozzle types.
• Continuous mixing should take place to prevent nematodes sinking to the bottom of the spray tank.
• Avoid sprayers equipped with centrifugal or piston pumps.
• Water tank temperature must not exceed 25°C / 77°F and pH must be between 4 and 8.
• Distribute the spraying solution evenly over the soil/ medium surface.

Application through irrigation systems:

• Pressure compensated irrigation systems are recommended. If not available, spray or drench applications are recommended.
• Spray the solution as soon as it is prepared and within a short timeframe. Do not store mixed suspensions.

Dosage:

Larvanem is typically applied at a rate of 250 000 to 500 000 nematodes per m² (2.5 to 5 billion/ha). 

Environmental conditions:

• Heterorhabditis bacteriophora is active between 16°C and 35°C / 61°F and 95°F but performs best at temperatures between 19°C and 33°C/66°F and 91°F.
• Soil temperature below 5°C / 41°F and above 35°C / 95°F can be lethal.
• Nematodes are susceptible to ultraviolet light (UV): do not use them in direct sunlight.
• The moisture content of the soil must be kept high for several days after application. When possible, irrigate the crop before and right after application.
• Adding an adjuvant and/ or an anti desiccant/ humectant can be beneficial.
• Spray in the evening (or morning in some cases) allowing nematodes to work for several hours within the optimal range of temperature and humidity, as described above.
• Highly soluble biodegradable formulation.
• Timing and frequency of control application depend on the pest species and the crop environment (relative humidity, soil moisture and temperature).

Storage:

• See expiry date on the box. On average product can be stored for 6 weeks.
• Refrigerate at a temperature of 2°C to 6°C / 35°F to 43°F in a ventilated refrigerator or cold room.
• Upon receipt, take boxes out of the insulating shipment packaging. Keep in a dark, temperature adjusted room until use.

Caution:

• Pesticides can have direct or indirect effects on biological solutions.
• As a general rule for tank mixing, always add the nematodes to a fully filled tank containing the compatible product.
• The product is safe for most beneficial insects and mites, but can have some effect on a few when in direct contact with foliar applied nematodes.
• Only use products that are permitted in your country or state and crop.