Biological Control Management

Label Making

  • Suggested use of a template for creating consistent labels.

    • Font size is indicated to be six or seven point.

    • Printing with grid lines recommended for neat cutting.

  • Emphasis on the benefits of using this label template to streamline label-making process.

Homework and Quiz Schedule

  • Homework two was posted recently.

    • Many questions have been previously discussed in lectures.

    • Purpose of homework: preparation for quiz two.

  • Due date for homework two: October 3.

    • Early submissions encouraged for feedback.

    • Plans to schedule future homework submissions three to five days prior to quizzes.

  • Quiz two scheduled for October 3 (next Friday).

  • First exam is planned for October 10.

  • Insect collection due dates:

    • Midway check was previously noted as October 8 (handout).

    • Syllabus lists it as October 17; adhering to syllabus date.

    • Midterm check for the insect collection due October 17.

    • Students encouraged to bring collections in before the deadline, with grading provided for those with 25 properly preserved insects.

  • Upcoming midterm practical scheduled for October 20.

  • Note of fall break on October 13 and 14.

Review of Entomopathogenic Nematodes (EPNs)

  • EPNs are nematodes that infect insects, distinct from soil-dwelling, beneficial nematodes.

  • Focus on biological control strategies utilizing EPNs to combat pest insects.

  • “Mutualistic relationship” with certain bacteria enhances nematode effectiveness.

  • EPN life cycle includes:

    • Egg stage

    • Four juvenile stages

    • Adult stage

  • Significant genera include:

    • Steinernema: Targets pests like boll weevil larvae and cutworms.

    • Heterorhabditis: Typically larger, more active and effective against soil insects.

    • Specificity in targeting specific insect species is noted for both genera.

EPN Research Findings

  • Doctor Kopen Hofer's research on EPNs, noting specificity to various insect targets.

  • EPNs exhibit