D3197: Biological control by entomopathogenic nematodes and predatory arthropods targeting western corn rootworm in continuous corn

The western corn rootworm (WCR), Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, is the most threatening pest to continuous corn in Nebraska. Integrated pest management approaches for WCR include a combination of cultural, chemical, transgenic, and biological control strategies; however, this pest has frequently evolved resistance. Therefore, biocontrol may be implemented to enhance and preserve the efficacy and longevity of existing control methods. By utilizing entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) and predatory arthropods, the damage caused by WCR may be reduced. An on-farm experiment at five sites was conducted to evaluate the effects of EPN applications on pest management. To test this, the following factors were measured: establishment and persistence of entomopathogenic nematodes in the soil; root feeding injury from WCR larvae; emergence of WCR beetles; and predatory arthropod diversity and abundance in above-ground/below-ground pitfall traps. Results determined that although WCR emergence times varied from field to field across sampling periods, there was no significant difference in populations and damage caused by WCR based on the application of EPNs. These results provide information related to potential opportunities for biological control to minimize threats from critical insect pests, ensuring sustainability and economic viability of continuous corn production.