Investigations on the efficacy of encapsulation of the endoparasitic fungus Hirsutella rhossiliensis

The endoparasitic fungus Hirsutella rhossiliensis infests a multitude of plant-parasitic nematodes and is found in agricultural soils worldwide. However, commercial exploitation of H. rhossiliensis as a biocontrol agent and as a component for nematode management requires proper formulation. Until now, a suitable method for controlled release of this fungus has not been found. This book reveals the efficacy of different materials based on polymers of renewable resources for encapsulation of H. rhossiliensis as well as the efficacy of alternative liquid and solid formulations applied against the sugar beet cyst nematode Heterodera schachtii and the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognitaH. rhossiliensis towards plant-parasitic nematodes as well as non-target, entomopathogenic nematodes is presented. Furthermore, the compatibility of H. rhossiliensis towards various pesticides is demonstrated.