ABSTRACT
182Entomopathogenic nematodes have been reported to occur in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions except Antarctica, where they play an important role in soil and are also used as biological control agents against many insect pests. With the passing of time and realizing the harmful effects of insecticides, biocontrol agents are being deployed with varying degree of success. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) have got little attention by the researchers though they have a great potential in reducing pest population and with little manipulation their role can be enhanced. During the last decade testing of EPN based biopesticide have been found promising against variety of insect pests because of their desirable characters like high infectivity, prolonged storage (shelf life), heat and desiccation tolerant, and self-perpetuating in favorable conditions. Hence, an immediate need was felt to highlight the potentials of EPN in a comprehensive manner with facts and to make aware the farming community, extension workers, entomologists, and nematologists and at the same time acquaint them with the work done on this important aspect of biocontrol.
