Project

Development of a reliable application of entomopathogenic nematodes as a contribution to a sustainable insect control in the Flemish vegetable production

Code
179V7808
Duration
01 January 2009 → 31 December 2012
Funding
Regional and community funding: IWT/VLAIO
Research disciplines
  • Natural sciences
    • Plant biology
  • Agricultural and food sciences
    • Agricultural plant production
    • Horticultural production
Keywords
entomopathogenic nematodes
 
Project description

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are deadly pathogens for insects. These nematodes contribute to the regulation of the natural populations of insects, but can also be used by their properties as bio-insecticide. The benefits of using EPNs compared to using conventional chemical insecticides are not so clear in terms of efficiency and labor. Regarding the impact on the environment and the health of humans EPNs offer numerous advantages compared to chemical pesticides. Their operation is very specific and focused, making them harmless to beneficial insects. They can be used by the user without any health risk, no mean danger for the environment and their use can also contribute to lower pesticide residues in crops. They can also provide a solution to specific problems in organic cultivation. These advantages make it safe to invest in research into optimizing the operating efficiency of these resources. The main objective of this project is to enable the application of efficient and reliable EPNs against insect pests in the Flemish vegetable. In this way, this project contribute to sustainable and more environmentally friendly insect control in this sector.