Recent Advancements in the Use of Entomopathogens and Nematophagous Mites for the Management of Plant Parasitic Nematodes

Plant-parasitic nematodes (PPN) are one of the most damaging crop pests with broad host ranges and can cause billions of dollars of crop losses, worldwide. Different control measures, including soil organic amendments, green manure, resistant varieties, crop rotation, chemical nematicides, and biological control agents, have been evaluated for the management of PPN, all with low to moderate success. Concerns regarding the deleterious effects of synthetic nematicides on non-target soil organisms or the environment are increasing, leading to enhanced interest in alternative control strategies. In this chapter we review and discuss potential PPN biological control agents, including fungi, bacteria, nematodes, and nematophagous mites. Relevant case studies focused on the potential of these agents under laboratory, greenhouse, and/or field conditions are highlighted. We also emphasize the factors affecting their efficacy against PPN management, providing suggestions for future work.