Biochemical changes in Holotrichia repetita Sharp (Coleoptera: Melolonthidae) and Galleria mellonella L. (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) due to the biopesticide Steinernema sp.

Abstract

In the present study, Steinernema- sp. were isolated from Tirupur soil sample and tested for its antagonistic potential against larvae of Galleria mellonella and Holotrichia repetita in laboratory condition. 100 per cent mortality was observed after 24 and 48 hours for G. mellonella and repetita respectively. Further biochemical estimations viz., protein, carbohydrates and lipids were carried out after 24 and 48 h of application. The results showed that there was a significant decrease in all biochemical parameters of parasitized larvae compared to control.  Steinernema sp. can be incorporated in IPM program for the control of G. mellonella and H. repetita.