Efficacy of entomopathogenic nematode strains against engorged Boophilus annulatus females (Acari : Ixodidae) under simulated field conditions

The biocidal efficacy of entompathogenic nematodes against engorged females of Boophilus annulatus (Say) was evaluated in soil-filled buckets in a gre enhouse, where conditions resemble nature. The 9 tested nematode strains di ffered markedly in their effect upon tick mortality. The Mexican strain of Steinernema carpocapae was most efficient, inducing 100% tick mortality at a concentration of 50 nematodes per square centimeter. An increase in the c oncentration of the S. carpocapsae DT strain to >200 IJ/cm(2) failed to kil l more ticks. It appears that entomopathogenic nematodes show promise as ti ck control agents.