Scia Rid Beneficial Nematode

Scientific name: Steinernema feltiae.

Nematode species of the genus Steinernema form symbiotic relationships with Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus bacteria. Xenorhabdus bacteria are crucial to the nematode establishing within the host. Photorhabdus bacteria are known to be pathogenic to a wide range of insects.
The entomopathogenic nematodes 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 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 for months in the soil until they find a new host.
The mutualistic insecticidal complex is efficient in the biological pest control of the beet armyworm (small mottled willow moth or asparagus fern caterpillar), codling moth (apple worm), Colorado potato beetle (ten striped spearman, ten lined potato beetle or potato bug), large crane flies, Asian corn borer, tobacco hornworm (Carolina sphinx moth, tobacco hawk moth or Goliath worm), cabbage large white butterfly, mango mealy bug and diamond back cabbage moth, amongst others in agricultural open field crops, indoor cultivation greenhouses, landscaping trees and greens and mushroom culture.

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

Use for:

• Biological control of fly larvae in mushroom cultivation, cuttings and young plant material.
  
• Larvae of sciarid mushroom fly (Sciaridae).
• Other species of flies (e.g. Phorid flies).

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 yellow 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.
  
• Apply directly after preparation of spray solution.

Application:

• Nematodes can be applied using an airblast 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:

Scia Rid is typically applied at a rate of 2 000 000 nematodes per m². 

Environmental conditions:

• Steinernema feltiae is active between 10°C to 31°C / 50°F to 88°F but performs best at temperatures between 14°C and 26°C / 57°F and 79°F.
• Soil or air 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 growing medium must be kept high for several days after application. When possible, irrigate the crop before and right after application.
• Can be applied with regular spray equipment.
• Apply during the last irrigation after casing mushroom spawn and substrate.

Storage:

• See expiry date on the box. On average product can be stored for 2 to 3 months.
• 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.