Integrating entomopathogenic nematodes into sustainable organic potato farming through a three-stage release technology
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Abstract
Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) play a crucial role as biocontrol agents in organic agriculture, targeting various pests, including potato pests. This study aimed to integrate EPNs into sustainable organic potato cultivation through an innovative three-stage release technology. The efficacy of Steinernema feltiae and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora was evaluated using three different application methods: 1) waterless release through alginate capsules, 2) mixing multiple isolates in an aqueous suspension, and 3) field distribution via Agrotis segetum larvae. The pathogenic potential of the EPNs was assessed based on pest mortality rates and their persistence under different conditions. Results indicated that alginate capsules extended EPN activity by up to 30%, while the aqueous suspension increased pest mortality by 20%. Nematodes distributed via Agrotis segetum larvae achieved the highest mortality rates, providing direct pest targeting. Among the tested methods, S. feltiae exhibited up to 96.3% efficacy against potato pests under laboratory conditions, while H. bacteriophora demonstrated 86.4% efficacy in field trials. The three-stage release technology proved to be a sustainable and effective approach for pest management in organic potato cultivation, making it a promising strategy for broader implementation.
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This Zenodo record is a permanently preserved version of a Structured PREreview. You can view the complete PREreview at https://prereview.org/reviews/15036055.
Does the introduction explain the objective of the research presented in the preprint? Yes Yes the objective of the study was clearly explained in the introductionAre the methods well-suited for this research? Somewhat appropriateAre the conclusions supported by the data? Highly supportedAre the data presentations, including visualizations, …This Zenodo record is a permanently preserved version of a Structured PREreview. You can view the complete PREreview at https://prereview.org/reviews/15036055.
Does the introduction explain the objective of the research presented in the preprint? Yes Yes the objective of the study was clearly explained in the introductionAre the methods well-suited for this research? Somewhat appropriateAre the conclusions supported by the data? Highly supportedAre the data presentations, including visualizations, well-suited to represent the data? Somewhat appropriate and clear The data visualizations were easy to understand and interpret, though most of the data were written and not visualized.How clearly do the authors discuss, explain, and interpret their findings and potential next steps for the research? Very clearly The study was discussed clearly and in dept.Is the preprint likely to advance academic knowledge? Highly likelyWould it benefit from language editing? NoWould you recommend this preprint to others? Yes, but it needs to be improved The result sections, especially data representations and interpretations, need to improve for more clarityIs it ready for attention from an editor, publisher or broader audience? Yes, after minor changes The result and discussion sectionsCompeting interests
The author declares that they have no competing interests.
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