Bio-efficacy of entomopathogenic nematodes (Heterorhabditis indica) against the termite, Odontotermes obesus

AbstractThis study evaluated the bio-efficacy of the entomopathogenic nematode Heterorhabditis indica against O. obesus under laboratory conditions. Infective juveniles (IJs) of H. indica were isolated from soil samples collected in Meerut, India and identified morphologically. Laboratory bioassays were conducted using varying concentrations of IJs (0-600 IJs/larva) applied to termite larvae and mortality was recorded at 24, 48, 72 and 96 h post-application. Results indicated a significant dose- and time-dependent increase in termite mortality, with 100% mortality achieved at 500 and 600 IJs/larva within 48 h. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences among treatments (P < 0.05). These findings demonstrate that H. indica possesses high virulence against O. obesus.