Entomopathogenic Nematode- Heterorhabditis indica and its Compatibility with other Biopesticides on the Greater Wax Moth- Galleria mellonella (L.)

Pathogenic effect of an indigenous entomopathogenic nematode, Heterorhabditis indica and commercial biopesticides of three fungal pathogens (M. anisopliae, B. bassiana and T. viride), one antagonistic bacteria (P. fluorescence), and two neem based biopesticides (Neem and Nimor) were tested on the Greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella larva under laboratory condition. The efficacy of the biopesticides was tested individually or in combination with H. indica. Pathogenic interaction on G. mellonella larva by H. indica and biopesticides was assessed at every twelve hour interval after storage. Significant differences in the percentage of larval mortality were determined among the biopesticide treatments. When tested in isolation, B. bassiana imposed greater mortality on host larva (40%) when compared to other biopesticides; while P. fluorescence and H. indica combination proved to be the most efficient causing 100% mortality on G. mellonella after 24 h of storage. Progeny produced by H. indica on single G. mellonella was found to be more (140108 IJs/larva) in the combination treatment with T. viride. Pathogenicity influence of H. indica when exposed with other biopesticides on host larva, have proved to be more virulent and compatible. The results on pathogenicity of entomopathogenic nematode- H. indica on G. mellonella larvae are a novelty in the field of biological control. Understanding the interactions between entomopathogenic nematodes and other soil microorganisms may be the key for success in IPM programme.