In vitro infection of Beauveria spp. on Globodera rostochiensis Wollenweber (1923)

Abstract

The golden nematode Globodera rostochiensis is one of the main problems in the potato crop (Solanum tuberosum L.); its cysts can remain viable in the soil for up to 30 years. Chemical nematicides are used for its control; however, biopesticides are an effective alternative in the control of agricultural pests.  Four strains of the fungus Beauveria spp. were isolated and evaluated at concentrations of 1 × 10⁴, 1 × 10⁵, 1 × 10⁶ on cysts of G. rostochiensis. 72 h since the process began, the infection was observed on the cysts in all dilutions and all strains, but RH4 strain was the only one that infected the nematode in the egg stage at all concentrations. After 96 hours, infection was observed in the different strains on the juveniles, except the U9 that presented infection after 120 h. This proves that Beauveria spp. can be used for the control of G. rostochiensis.