Sportnem T Beneficial Nematode

Scientific name: Steinernema carpocapsae.

Nematode species of the genus Steinernema form symbiotic relationships with bacteria that are crucial to the survival of the nematodes for food and reproductive life cycles. The 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 24 to 48 hours. 
The nematodes feed on the multiplying and growing bacteria and the remains of the host converted into a nutrient source by the bacteria and reproduce themselves and grow.
When there is insufficient nutrient, the nematodes enter a non feeding, developmentally arrested, free living stage in which they can survive in the soil environment until they find a new host.
Steinernema carpocapsae is a generalist parasite and an ambush forager, standing on its tail in an upright position near the soil surface and attaching to passing hosts, even capable of jumping. This species of nematode is thought to be especially effective when applied against highly mobile surface adapted insects though some below ground insects are also controlled by this nematode.
Because nematodes and their bacterial complex kill and eliminate plant pests quickly, they have been widely adapted for use as a biological control agent in agricultural open field and greenhouse crops.

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

Use for:

• Biological control of crane fly larvae, Noctuids, mole crickets and caterpillars in lawns.
  
• Natural enemy of larvae of crane flies (Tipulidae), owlet moths/ cutworms (Noctuidae), mole crickets (Gryllotalpa spp.) (usually of no or little significance as a pest and only a problem if it occurs in large numbers. Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa is classified as endangered or threatened in several European countries where it is now protected by law) and various other species.
• Effective in a wide temperature range.

• Highly soluble biodegradable formulation with long shelf life.
  

Mode of action:

The nematodes enter the pest and release symbiotic bacteria into the pest body cavity. These bacteria convert the host tissue into a food source, on which nematodes feed and develop then reproduce inside the host. This kills the pest within a few hours to days after infection.

Visually, infected pest insects in the root zone turn 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.
• If tank mixing with a compatible product, add Sportnem T 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 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 or growing 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:

Sportnem T is typically applied at a rate of 2.5 billion nematodes per hectare. In general, two applications are required.

Timing and frequency depend on the pest species and the crop environment (relative humidity, soil moisture and temperature).

Environmental conditions:

• Steinernema carpocapsae is active between 14°C and 34°C / 57°F and 93°F but performs best at temperatures between 19°C and 31°C / 66°F and 88°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 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.

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.