Entomopathogenic nematode-based biological pest control for vegetable crops
Cornell University researchers offer a biological pest control solution using entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) to manage belowground insect pests in vegetable crops. Field trials in onion showed approximately 20% yield increase. The technology targets the full pest life cycle from egg to adult, reducing reliance on chemical soil inputs like chlorpyrifos.
Overview
This solution uses entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) as a biological control method for belowground insect pests in vegetable crops, offering an effective alternative to chlorpyrifos and other chemical soil inputs. The nematode strains have been specifically selected for environmental and chemical compatibility and efficacy against maggot pests. Beyond direct larval killing, the EPNs disrupt the entire pest life cycle from egg to adult, providing multiple layers of pest suppression. Small-scale field trials in onion demonstrated an approximately 20% increase in end-of-season yield.
Technical specifications
- Virulent EPN strains selected for environmental and chemical compatibility with vegetable cropping systems
- Life cycle disruption: nematodes kill pest insects at the larval stage and also detrimentally affect egg-to-adult development, creating additional control opportunities
- Target pests: soil-dwelling maggot pests, with demonstrated efficacy in onion production
- Application method: applied to soil to target belowground insect pests
- Compatibility: designed to reduce chemical soil inputs, including organophosphates such as chlorpyrifos
Technology readiness level
The technology has completed small-scale field trials demonstrating approximately 20% yield improvement in onion crops. Next steps include enhancing virulence through isolation of novel strains and improved rearing efforts, followed by larger-scale field experiments planned for the 2021 field season with commercial collaborators. Partnership support would fund key personnel for strain enhancement and expanded field validation.
About Cornell University
Cornell University is a comprehensive private, land-grant research university with campuses in Ithaca and New York City, combining significant scale with cross-disciplinary breadth. Industry connects through open-access user facilities and prototyping labs, pilot-scale testbeds, and a research and technology park that provide pathways from discovery to demonstration. A statewide extension network and integration with a major hospital system enable real-world deployment, while a graduate campus embedded in New York City’s tech corridor provides direct access to startups, venture investors, and corporate R&D teams. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, the Department of Energy, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP management, licensing, startup formation, and corporate partnerships across campuses.
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