Use of entomopathogenic nematodes for the management of shoot borer infesting ginger

Studies during 2010–11 on the infectivity of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), Steinernema Heterorhabditis and Oscheius group against larva and pupa of shoot borer, Conogethes punctiferalis infesting ginger showed that, all tested EPNs groups found pathogenic to shoot borer larva. Among them, Heterorhabditis groups was found more pathogenic followed by Oscheius group whereas Steinernema group was least pathogenic to shoot borer larvae. However, Oscheius group was found more promising against pupa than Steinernema group This is the first report of the infectivity of EPNs against insect pests of ginger. These EPNs may be utilized for the insect pests management of ginger in future.