Tip Top Bio-Control Technical Bulletin

Heterorhabditis indica
Beneficial Nematode

Target Pest:
H. indica is a beneficial nematode that attacks citrus root weevils and is particularly suited for use in subtropical soils and environments. H. Indica is one of the very best nematodes for control of citrus root weevils. This nematode is great on weevil grubs, because it is the only one in the market place that will reproduce on the weevil and propagate itself in the field.

Description:
Is one of the very best nematodes for control of citrus root weevils.

Product information:
Heterorhabditis indica is shipped on a sponge, in a paper pouch, or in injectors. Nematodes on sponge or pouch can be easily extracted into water and can be applied using conventional spray equipment, hose-end sprayers, watering cans, or distributed through pressurized irrigation systems (not soaker hoses). Nematodes packaged in the paper pouch are especially formulated and have no carrier to clog sprayers or grow mold. The nematodes in this formulation are simply rinsed from the pouch into the spray solution to be sprayed or injecting into emitter systems. The pouch formulation has a slightly shorter shelf-life than the sponge formulation. We also pack our nematodes in small plastic injectors that can be used to inject nematodes into bore holes made by wood and stem boring insects or into flower pots and other in-door plant containers.

Release Rates:
This nematode will produce 400,000 to 700,000 infective stages in 3-4 weeks after application. These hunting stages begin immediately to search for and kill more citrus root weevils.

5 million - 2,000 sq. ft lawn - Nematodes are best released in the evening.
First - pre-water the area to be treated.
Second - apply nematodes.
Third - water after application.
Fourth - return to normal watering.

Lifespan:
The nematode enters the host and kills it within 24 to 48 hours. It then reproduces within the host and searches for new hosts. This hunt and seek cycle provides long-term control.

Strategic Considerations:
Pesticides may adversely affect nematode survival. Broad-spectrum insecticides are toxic to nematodes. H. indica are more heat tolerant, more virulent than H. bacto.