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Enhanced alginate capsule properties as a formulation of entomopathogenic nematodes

Kim, Jinwon ; Jaffuel, Geoffrey ; Turlings, Ted

In: BioControl, 2015, vol. 60, no. 4, p. 527-535

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    Title
    • Enhanced alginate capsule properties as a formulation of entomopathogenic nematodes
    Author
    • Kim, Jinwon. Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Rue Emile-Argand 11, 2000, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
    • Jaffuel, Geoffrey. Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Rue Emile-Argand 11, 2000, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
    • Turlings, Ted. Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Rue Emile-Argand 11, 2000, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
    Document Type
    • Postprint
    OAI-PMH Identifier
    • oai:doc.rero.ch:332230
    Summary
    Despite many advantages of employing entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) as biocontrol agents against soil-dwelling insect pests, their use is still limited to home gardening or small-scale farming. Lack of cost-effective, durable formulations, as well as appropriate application methods have so far prevented the use of EPN in large-scale farming. A recent report on alginate capsules as a novel EPN formulation for application into the soil shows promise. However, EPNs often readily escaped from these capsules within a few days especially when they are not refrigerated. To improve EPN retainment, we adjusted capsule properties by changing the reaction temperature for capsule formation and by adopting post-treatment of alginate capsules with excessive Ca2+, and then evaluated EPN escape from the capsules manufactured under different conditions. While capsules with the hardest capsule shell were produced at 4°C with the Ca2+ post-treatment, the 40% enhanced EPN retainment was achieved only by lowering the reaction temperature.