Field Application of Entomopathogenic Nematodes Against White Grubs Pentodon algerinum on Strawberry Plants in Egypt

Abstract

Hammad, M.S., M. H. Mowafi, A.A. Abdallah and M.I. Hassan. 2026. Field Application of Entomopathogenic Nematodes Against White Grubs Pentodon algerinum on Strawberry Plants in Egypt. Arab Journal of Plant Protection, 44(3):377- 381. https://doi.org/10.22268/AJPP-001409 This study aimed to assess the ability of four entomopathogenic nematode strains (two Steinernematid and two Heterorhabditid) to control white grubs, Pentodon algerinum (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) on strawberry plants in the field, by releasing them through the irrigation water system during 2021 in El-Qualiobia and El-Behera Governorates. Results obtained revealed that nematode application had a significant effect against the white grubs by reducing the number of infested plants. All strains used significantly reduced the number of infested plants after the 2nd week of application, and the effect was increased further three weeks after the treatment, and the EGAZ10 strain was significantly the most effective. Results obtained should encourage workers to further investigate biocontrol agents as potential safe components in pest management. Keywords: Strawberry, white grubs, entomopathogenic nematodes, field applications.