The virulence and invading efficiencyof three Steinernema nematode species
on the last larval instar of Spodoptera littoraiis (Boisd.) as well as, average number of
damaged leaves and consumed leaf area were investigated in laboratory and
greenhouse experiments... The results proved that the indigenous, Mediterranean
species, Steinernema. apuliae, at 5003nd 1500 lfpot was the most virulent species
in . laboratory and greenhouse experiments respectively. It also showed significantly
higher invading efficiency than did other nematode species. except that when used
at a high concentration of 2700 lJpot. In green house. in the greenhouse. The
numbers of adult nematodes found in the cadavers of S. littoraiis larvae were
significantly different among nematode species at 500 lidish in the laboratory and
1500 lipot concentration in the greenhouse The number of adult females found in
the cadavers of this insect larvae was always higher than the number of males.
Foliage application of S. apuiiae resulted in a significant reduction in the number of
damaged leaves and revealed a lower index of damage as compared with that in the
control As conclusion, 8. apuiiae has significant the capability of controlling
potentiality in the management of the Mediterranean climbing cutworm SJii‘toraiis in
Egyptian and European greenhouses.