This book describes entomopathogenic and slug parasitic nematodes as potential biocontrol agents in crop insect and slug pest management. Addressing research on these two nematodes from tropical, subtropical and temperate countries, it covers the new techniques and major developments regarding mass production, formulation, application, commercialization and safety measures. Plans for future strategies to make these beneficial nematodes cost-effective and expand their use by including them in integrated pest management programmes in different agro-ecosystems are also discussed. Biocontrol Agents: Entomopathogenic and Slug Parasitic Nematodes provides a comprehensive review of the topic and is an essential resource for researchers, industry practitioners and advanced students in the fields of biological control and integrated pest management.

Plant-parasitic nematodes are recognized as one of the limiting factors in crop production all over the world. They impair the quality of crops and cause significant yield losses, seriously threatening global food security. Management of these creatures is a vital aspect of the agricultural process and has often depended upon the use of hazardous chemical nematicides, but the disadvantages of these substances have created interest in searching for alternate safe methods of phytonematode management. This book highlights the use of biocontrol agents as a novel, eco-friendly approach in the management of plant-parasitic nematodes. Besides covering the ecology, diversity and geographical distribution, survival biology and virulence mechanisms of potential biocontrol agents, their limitations have also been described. Reviewing biocontrol agents such as nematophafous fungi, parasitic bacteria, predaceous mites, rhizobacteria, mycorrhiza and predaceous nematodes, the book discusses future research needs in detail. Written in a clear and informative style by eminent nematologists from around the world, this book provides a source of valuable information for researchers, teachers, students of plant nematologym enabling them to plan better strategies for managing plant-parasitic nematodes.