Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting

9:00 AM         REGISTRATION

9:30 AM         PRELIMINARY BUSINESS MEETING

1. Local arrangements report
2. Introductions
3. Minutes of 2024 (Lorenzo Rossi)
4. Sub-project Leads

10:00 AM       Funding Opportunities from NIFA

10:30 AM       NEW PROJECT REVIEW AND PLANNING

Large-Acreage Crops Annual Crops

11:30 AM       NEW PROJECT REVIEW AND PLANNING

Orchard Systems

12:30 PM        LUNCH (on your own)

1:30 PM          NEW PROJECT REVIEW AND PLANNING

Small Fruits and Vegetables

2:30 PM          NEW PROJECT REVIEW AND PLANNING

Urban and Natural Landscapes, Rangelands, and Nurseries

3:30 PM          DISCUSSIONS

1. Theme for 2026
2. Discussion of collaborative projects
3. New business (election for new officers)

4:30 PM          ADJOURN

BUSINESS MEETING

1. Introductions: Shaohui Wu (2025 Chair): Welcomed all and began with introductions. Attendees introduced themselves including a short introduction about their affiliation and work.

2. Minutes of 2024 (prepared by Lorenzo Rossi): A copy of the 2024 minutes was circulated electronically prior to the meeting. A motion to approve the 2024 minutes was made by Shaohui Wu on behalf. Minutes of the 2025 meeting are required to be posted within 60 days.

3. NIFA administrators report unavailable

Large-Acreage Crops

Jermaine Perier (Mississippi State University):

As a postdoc in Dr. David Shapiro-Ilan’s lab, the following projects were completed:

We evaluated the use of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) as a control option for foliar pests like whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci), more specifically, ways to enhance their efficacy. EPNs were effective against whiteflies and more with the use of ascaroside pheromones and an antidesiccant. Ascaroside was used to shorten the quiescence period of the EPNs to promote faster dispersal and likely higher infectivity. Adult whitefly populations were reduced up to 80%, and whitefly nymph survival was reduced to 6%. EPNs were activated by 20 min exposure to the ascaroside extracts, after which they were resuspended in tap water for application. Applications were made as foliar sprays, and data were collected periodically (1, 3, and 7 days after treatment) for both adults and immatures. The study was completed using cotton plants in the greenhouse and will require larger field testing.

Two review publications were published/accepted. The first was an invited book chapter currently in press. The chapter sets the premise for the use of semiochemicals to promote/manipulate the efficacy of microbial control agents (mainly EPNs) in pest management. Additionally, topics for discussion/research are highlighted. The second was an invited collaboration to review the biological control agents for whiteflies. In this article, the use of EPF and EPNs as potential and existing microbial tools against whiteflies is addressed, with future research topics highlighted.

Other projects throughout the year included compatibility tests for EPNs and EPF with insecticides for IPM of whiteflies, and the manuscripts are currently being edited and submitted for peer review.

Josephine Antwi (Oregon State University):

Our work using entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) is a proof-of-concept intended to develop alternative control options for major insect pests of potato and other vegetables grown under irrigation in the Lower Columbia Basin of Oregon. In 2025, in a screenhouse study, we tested the effect of two EPF as endophytes in potato: Beauveria bassiana (commercially available as BoteGHA ES), and Metarhizium brunneum (commercially available as M52 OD) in controlling Colorado potato beetle (CPB) and green peach aphids (GPA). In the field, we also determined the incidence of B. bassiana infection in CPB populations in commercial potato fields in the Lower Columbia Basin of Oregon and Washington. Forty-two days after treatment (either as seed, soil drench, or a combination of both), about 90-100% of leaf tissues showed successful B. bassiana inoculation compared to stem tissues. We were unable to culture M. brunneum, possibly because the conditions in the growth media could not support M. brunneum growth. We plan to alter the media in the future to support M. brunneum growth. Neither EPF led to the mortality of CPB or aphids on potato. Interestingly, GPA abundance was higher on EPF-treatment plants than the control. Findings from our previous study (2024) also indicate that GPA responds positively to EPF treatment on potato. For CPB, we plan to conduct a choice vs. no choice follow-up study to assess their behavioral responses to EPF as endophytes in potato. We plan to publish findings from this study in the future.

We are also exploring the effect of EPF on potato psyllids on potato. Specifically, we want to determine if EPF causes mortality in potato psyllids and/or reduces transmission of Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum (CLso), the bacteria that causes zebra chip disease, in potato. Preliminary findings are positive. Both B. bassiana and M. brunneum seem to cause mortality in potato psyllids, but B. bassiana caused the highest mortality. We are currently completing CLso transmission experiments in the laboratory and hope to share findings in the future.

Pin-Chu Lai (University of Nebraska-Lincoln: UNL): 

In collaboration with Dr. Julie Peterson (Dept. of Entomology) and Dr. Tom Powers (Dept. of Plant Pathology; nematologist) at UNL, we conducted several studies leveraging entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) as biocontrol tools for crop pest management in Nebraska. While most of the projects focused on corn rootworm management in corn, research expanded to exploring Nebraska endemic EPNs for insect pest management in major crops in the State.

Studies conducted in 2025 include:

1. Innovative Corn Rootworm Management On-Farm Study (2023-2025; funded by Corteva and Nebraska Corn Board): applied EPNs from Persistent Biocontrol through pivot irrigation with cover crop and Bt trait treatments in continuous corn in 2023, and fields were monitored/data were collected through 2025. Result highlights: no EPN effects on adult emergence or root damage; recovery rates of EPNs in soil were highest at 380 and 500 days after application.
2. Testing EPNs as a Biological Control tool for Management of Insect Pests Affecting Agriculture in Nebraska (2025-2027; NIFA Multistate Capacity funds W5186): objectives include 1) survey Nebraska endemic EPN isolates and gene-tree construction, 2) culture and test endemic EPNs for agriculture pests in various cropping systems, 3) determine EPN adaptation process to host, agroecosystems, and the environment. Result highlights: a metabarcoding methodology established using MinION. At least five endemic EPNs were isolated from Nebraska soil, and culturing endemic EPNs is ongoing.
3. Evaluation of EPN Interactions and Commercial EPN Products against Corn Rootworm (summer 2025). Result highlights: types of interaction between added EPNs and endemic EPNs in soil were inconclusive (whether synergistic/ additive or competitive/ antagonistic). The efficacy against corn rootworm of commercial EPNs varied among products and rate, with Koppert’s EPNs consistently performing better even at a low dose.

David Shapiro-Ilan (USDA-ARS):

The whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, is a prolific pest of economically important crops. On average, an individual young female may lay over 500 eggs within its lifespan. In heavy infestations, plant damage averages >$140 million (USD) annually in the southeast U.S., increasing the need for different management approaches. The use of entomopathogenic nematodes in foliar applications shows promise when paired with ascaroside pheromone extract treatments to boost efficacy. Although the effect of the pheromone extract on the nematode is known, its direct effect on B. tabaci is unknown. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of the ascaroside pheromones on B. tabaci. Cotton leaves were selected as hosts for whiteflies, and solutions of ascaroside pheromone extracts at different concentrations were used for foliar applications. Evaluations of B. tabaci settling choice, adult survival, oviposition, and nymph emergence are reported. Exposure to the leaves treated with high pheromone levels resulted in lower B. tabaci oviposition, nymph emergence, and survival. Pheromone-treated leaves greatly impacted B. tabaci's settling choice. This study reveals the impact of using ascaroside pheromone extracts on B. tabaci, highlighting a new avenue for the foliar application of entomopathogenic nematode byproducts with enhanced efficacy and residual repellency. [Shapiro-Ilan (USDA-ARS), Mike Toews (Univ of GA), Jermaine Perier (MS State Univ)].

Orchard Systems

David Shapiro-Ilan (USDA-ARS):

Novel formulations for microbial bio-pesticides were investigated. A slow-release capsule formulation for entomopathogenic (beneficial) nematodes was found to show extended persistence in field studies. New nanoparticle formulations provide exceptional UV protection to beneficial nematodes, allowing the bio-pesticidal agents to survive longer in the environment and thereby kill more insect pests. Novel gel formulations that protect against UV radiation and desiccation were also tested when applying beneficial nematodes for control of peachtree borer. [Shapiro-Ilan (USDA-ARS), Brett Blaauw (Univ of GA), Dana Ment (ARO, Israel)].

Fundamental research on entomopathogenic nematode behavior was conducted. Previous research indicated that beneficial nematodes move through soil in packs, like a pack of wolves seeking their prey. New research indicated that nematodes tend to join groups of other nematodes. Additionally, the novel nematode pheromones were found to enhance biocontrol efficacy in a range of soil types. Additionally, the chemical pheromones involved in entomopathogenic nematode trail-following were elucidated. [Shapiro-Ilan (USDA-ARS), Ed Lewis (Univ of ID), Fatma Kaplan (Pheronym, Inc.), Alex Gaffke (USDA-ARS].

Jermaine Perier (Mississippi State University):

Evaluation into the persistence of EPNs in a capsule formulation was completed and published. The capsules are intended as a new formulation to promote the slow release of EPNs and extend the survival after application, due to the hydrogel internal structure. Capsule application (on the surface or in furrow) influenced EPN persistence, with more positive results seen when capsules were applied in furrow. This study was completed in the field with capsule application occurring in a pecan orchard at the base of the trees. Using the bait method from collected soil samples, data on EPN persistence were noted. Other persistence studies were carried out by Slusher et al. that compared commercial and selected persistent EPN strains against the pecan weevil. Further evaluation of the length of time EPNs remain viable after initial application is still needed. For now, the study reports some evidence of persistence across several months to 2 years. 

Terri Price-Baker, Pasco Avery (University of Florida)

Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) offer an alternative strategy for citrus growers seeking environmentally friendly pest management solutions for management of arthropod pests. Therefore, greenhouse and subsequent field studies were continued, as previously indicated in the 2024 report, to determine the potential efficacy of the EPF-based products as endophytes for sustainable management of arthropod pests of citrus. Our greenhouse studies that were conducted in 2024 reported results only from the first set of citrus plant cohorts. We have now assessed all plant cohorts for the potential of two commercially available strains of the fungus Beauveria bassiana to become endophytic in citrus plants after a single foliar application under both greenhouse and field conditions.

Results from all the citrus plant cohorts destructively sampled from the greenhouse study indicated successful application of the fungi on the citrus leaves, and endophytism in new leaves, stems and roots after two months. The end of the greenhouse study occurred in August 2024. The relationship between growth effects and endophytic establishment by B. bassiana are inconclusive currently. However, while the destructively sampled BotaniGard-treated plants had larger stem masses on average than their controls when sampled at 2-months post spray, root systems on average were less massive among the EPF-treated plants than the controls at the 4-month post-spray sampling. Following the examination of our last set of plant cohorts which were destructively sampled and surface sterilized according to the greenhouse protocol described in the 2024 report, the remaining 64 of the 128 plants from the start of the study were re-sprayed in an asynchronous manner with either water (control), BioCeres, or BotaniGard (based on what they had previously received at a concentration of 10⁷ spores per ml during the greenhouse study). Prior to spraying, leaf samples were sent to another institution for a baseline determination of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), the bacterium associated with citrus greening disease. The field study concluded in December 2024. All remaining plant cohorts were destructively sampled, surface sterilized, and placed onto PDA-dodine plates as previously described in the greenhouse study reported in 2024. Endophytic presence of B. bassiana was minimal in the plates for either strain. All growth effects were measured and statistically analyzed by a two-way ANOVA conducted by Joseph Paoli using an RStudio program. Genomic data is currently being assessed by the USDA-ARSEF facility in Ithaca, New York. As with the greenhouse study, more significant effects were derived based not on the treatment of the citrus plant (EPF vs. control), but by the field bed where it was placed. Citrus plants originally in one greenhouse (n = 32) were placed in one field bed, whereas plants in the other greenhouse (n = 32) were placed in an adjacent field bed. One of the greenhouses was more exposed to eriophyid mites than the other prior to relocation and planting in the field. Thus, a general trend observed in the field study was that these plants exposed to the heavy mite infestation in one greenhouse grew less compared to those relocated from the less heavily infested greenhouse. Also, although plant cohorts in the field were grown where the Asian citrus psyllid pressure was high, only 1 adult psyllid was caught in a yellow sticky trap set up near the plants throughout the entire study period.

A 2026 study is planned, and the ground has been prepared for planting citrus trees. The experimental layout will be a linear randomized block design with different EPF-based products applied to each respective block of trees; control blocks will be sprayed with water only. The EPF-based treatments will consist of products containing spores of either Cordyceps javanica strain Apopka (product: PFR-97™ 20% WDG), Beauveria bassiana strain GHA (BotaniGard® ES), B. bassiana strain BW149 (Principle® WP), and Metarhizium brunneum (LalGuard M52 OD). There will be 112 ‘Valencia’ sweet orange trees (Citrus × sinensis) grafted on ‘US-942’ (Citrus reticulata × Poncirus trifoliata) rootstock. Plants will be planted as soon as environmental and soil conditions are conducive for their optimum growth, probably sometime in Spring 2026.

Eddie Kyle Slusher (Texas A&M University):

In June 2024, I transitioned from a post-doctoral research associate at the USDA-ARS in Byron, GA to a faculty position at Texas A&M AgriLife in Stephenville, TX.

Evaluation of persistent versus commercial nematode strains for management of Curculio caryae and other weevils in pecan (w/ Elson Shields, Will Harges, Jermaine D. Perier, and David Shapiro-Ilan (Published in Biological Control))

This work looked at the effects of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) applied at low rates on key pecan pest, pecan weevil (Curculio caryae), and two species of weevil that are found in pecan orchards but may not be economically harmful: Fuller rose beetle (FRB) (Naupactus cervinus) and Japanese weevil (TJW) (Pseudocneorhinus bifasciatus). Entomopathogenic nematodes have previously been shown to be effective tools for pecan weevil management. However, EPNs need frequent reapplication and can be expensive to apply. Thus, there is a need to develop persistent strains of EPNs that can be applied less frequently and at lower rates. In this study, we compared two persistent strains of EPNs, NY01′ (Steinernema carpocapsae Weiser) and NY04′ (Steinernema feltiae Filipjev), against two commercial EPN strains, ScAll (S. carpocapsae) and SfSn (S. feltiae), in the lab and field. For the field study, the suppressive ability of each pair of EPNs on pecan weevil, FRB, and TJW was compared alongside a water only control. EPNs were only applied in the first year of the study (2022) and insect populations were monitored in 2022 and 2023. For the field study in Georgia, significantly fewer TJW were caught in trees treated with either nematode type in both study years. For the field study in Oklahoma, significantly fewer pecan weevils were caught in trees treated with commercial nematodes compared to the persistent nematodes and control in both study years. In lab trials, there was a lack of consistency in the survival of the four strains. The results of this study indicate that commercial nematodes can have substantial carryover across two field seasons and can be applied at a significantly lower rate and still provide pest suppression. While the commercial nematodes did not suppress pecan weevil numbers below what would be economically acceptable for growers, this does open up the possibility of applying EPNs at lower rates and at less frequent time intervals and still getting significant control. Future studies may look at using slightly higher rates to see if costs can still be lessened compared to current field costs, while getting economic control over pecan weevil. The published manuscript can be found at this link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1049964425000155.

Effect of Different Soils on Pheromone-Enhanced Movement of Entomopathogenic Nematodes (w/ Sehrish Gulzar (lead P.I.), Fatma Kaplan, Ed Lewis, Steven Hobbs, and David Shapiro-Ilan (Published in Journal of Nematology)

This was a study done by Sehrish Gulzar (Post-doc in Dr. Shapiro-Ilan's lab) that continued on from work I was doing as post-doc in Dr. Shapiro-Ilan's lab.  In different soils, the biocontrol efficacy of Steinernema carpocapsae, Steinernema feltiae and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora in soil columns with and without pheromone exposure was tested. All nematodes were evaluated in separate PVC soil columns filled with oven dried commercial play sand and two different soils from pecan orchards in Byron, GA and Tifton, GA. Efficacy was determined by baiting the bottom section of each column with larvae of the yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor L.). Results indicated that pheromones enhanced EPN efficacy for all EPN species and soils tested compared to treatments without pheromones. The magnitude/extent that pheromones boosted EPN movement in all EPNs, regardless of soil type, did not differ. Soil did not affect EPN efficacy for H. bacteriophora but did affect S. carpocapsae and S. feltiae. For both S. carpocapsae and S. feltiae, efficacy was highest in the Tifton soil, followed by the Byron and commercial play sand. When comparing the efficacy of EPN species to each other, H. bacteriophora killed more bait insects exposed to soil in the bottom of the soil column than other EPNs. This suggests that pheromones can be used to enhance EPN efficacy in diverse soils. The link for Dr. Gulzar's paper can be found here: https://sciendo.com/2/v2/download/article/10.2478/jofnem-2025-0009.pdf. This manuscript received Editor's Choice recognition for Journal of Nematology.  

Key Outcomes

• Evaluated and demonstrated the potential to use entomopathogenic nematodes at a reduced and biennial application and still provide significant control of pecan weevil with additional knock-on effects against other foliar feeding weevils.
• Evaluated the interactions between soil type and pheromone exposure on EPN efficacy.  

Stefan Jaronski (Jaronski Mycological Consulting LLC):

A multi-year project optimizing applications of mycoinsecticides to citrus for management of Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) was completed (USDA APHIS, Edinburg TX, and Jaronski Mycological Consulting, Blacksburg VA). The last phase demonstrated that Beauveria bassiana strains ANT-03 and PPRI5339 could colonize to a considerable extent, but not completely, new flush on full size trees by foliar spray. Mere exposure of flush to Beauveria conidia for 24 hours, without actual colonization of leaf tissue, significantly reduced survival of adult ACP introduced onto treated leaves. The experimental methodology implicated induction of systemic resistance by the presence of conidia on the citrus leaves as the mechanism for adverse effect on the insect; actual colonization of leaves was blocked. The data support the hypothesis that effects on insects after ostensible endophytic colonization are really via induced systemic resistance. Furthermore, citrus leaves at least respond to the transient presence of Beauveria conidia on the phylloplane.

Shaohui Wu (The Ohio State University):

Toxicity of bacteria Photorhabdus luminescens (Pl) and Xenorhabdus bovienii (Xb) to pecan aphids were tested in the laboratory and field conditions. In the laboratory, 20x dilutions of both metabolites caused significant mortality of the blackmargined aphid Monellia caryella. Delayed development of aphid nymphs by metabolites was noticed. Under field tests, neither bacterial metabolite significantly reduced the number of M. caryella and black pecan aphid (Melanocallis caryaefoliae).

To test the toxicity of metabolites to natural enemies, various life stages (egg, larva, pupa and adult) of the lady beetle, Harmonia axyridis, were treated in the field with 40x dilutions of Pl and Xb and brought to the laboratory to record insect mortality and development. The egg was the only life stage susceptible to bacterial metabolites. Eggs treated with Pl failed to hatch, but the hatch rate for Xb was not different from acetone and water controls. Mortality and development of all other life stages were unaffected by either metabolite. Multiple species of spiders, a parasitoid wasp, syrphid fly larvae, an assassin bug species, and various life stages of lady beetles and lacewings were the primary natural enemies observed during the test. Most of these species weren't found in large numbers, with high variation at the 7-d evaluation. Parasitoid wasp mummies appeared in all treatments at equivalent levels, and spiders showed up sporadically throughout all treatments. Assassin bugs were absent from acetone, and syrphid fly larvae were almost confined to the water control, but neither effect was statistically significant. Lacewing eggs were significantly more prevalent in acetone than Pl, though it didn't differ from other treatments. Overall, most natural enemies were unaffected by bacterial metabolites in the field, except for syrphid fly larvae and lacewing eggs.

Lorenzo Rossi (Texas A&M University):

In January 2025, I transitioned from the University of Florida to Texas A&M University. All ongoing research activities were successfully maintained during this transition, and I currently have an active, aligned research project housed at Texas A&M that continues my work within the objectives of S1070.

Florida Field and Microbiome Research (Completed Data Collection)

My Florida-based work generated three years of data on citrus-associated microbial communities across multiple citrus species and cover crops, including sweet orange, grapefruit, and lemon. Soil was sampled twice annually (warm and cool seasons) to capture seasonal dynamics. Microbial community characterization is complete, with all samples processed and organized for ITS (fungal) and 16S rRNA (bacterial) sequencing. These datasets provide one of the more comprehensive seasonal microbiome profiles for citrus in Florida. A manuscript synthesizing these results is currently in preparation. In parallel, we are analyzing seasonal shifts in entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) within citrus rhizosphere, with a focus on how community composition changes across cover crops, seasons, and host species (lemon, sweet orange, grapefruit). 

Greenhouse Research: Endophytic Entomopathogenic Fungi in Citrus (in collaboration with Dr. Avery)

Greenhouse experiments were conducted using grafted citrus plants (‘Valencia’ sweet orange on US-942 rootstock) to evaluate the establishment, persistence, and plant-growth effects of foliar-applied Beauveria bassiana from two commercial formulations. Plants were maintained under controlled conditions and destructively sampled at two and four months post-inoculation.

Key outcomes include:

• Successful endophytic colonization of B. bassiana, confirmed via surface sterilization and microscopy, particularly in stem and root tissues.
• Evidence that endophytic establishment persisted for up to four months post-application.
• Early growth responses (two months post-spray) indicated enhanced stem and root development in inoculated plants, with formulation-specific differences.
• Growth responses were context-dependent, diminishing over time, and influenced by greenhouse environment and nutrient availability.

These findings demonstrate that commercially available entomopathogenic fungi can establish as endophytes in grafted citrus following foliar application, supporting their potential dual role in pest suppression and plant performance.

Overall Impact

Together, this work integrates field-scale microbiome ecology with controlled greenhouse experimentation, advancing our understanding of citrus–microbe–insect interactions. The transition to Texas A&M has allowed this research to continue seamlessly but on grapes and other tree crops, with new experiments and analyses now underway that build directly on these completed datasets.

Urban and Natural Landscapes, Rangelands, and Nurseries

Albrecht M. Koppenhofer (Rutgers University):

Silicon, a beneficial plant nutrient, provides many benefits to turfgrasses, including resistance to biotic and abiotic stress. It is taken up as orthosilicic acid and deposited in cell walls and cell lumens as amorphous silica gel or phytoliths. This makes tissues abrasive and tougher and more difficult for insects to consume and digest. Feeding on silicon-supplemented plants can compromise anti-predator defenses in insects, including cellular and humoral immunity. It remains unknown how such impaired immunity affects insect susceptibility to biocontrol agents such as EPNs. Our research suggests that silicon fertilization could support plant resistance against turfgrass insects and enhance insect susceptibility to EPNs. In greenhouse experiments with white grubs (oriental beetles), silicon fertilization reduced larval weight gain but did not affect susceptibility to H. bacteriophora. However, in a field experiment, larval densities and larval weight were not significantly affected. Fertilization with silicon reduced populations of annual bluegrass weevil (ABW) larvae by around 60% in greenhouse experiments and by 50% in field experiments. However, ABW susceptibility to S. carpocapsae was not significantly affected. In greenhouse experiments with black cutworm, silicon fertilization reduced larval weight gain (36%) and increased mortality (45%) by S. carpocapsae.

Recent evidence suggests that fungicides may also impact insect pests by directly causing mortality, delaying development, disrupting immune responses, and reducing detoxification enzyme activity. Certain fungicides may enhance the efficacy of biocontrol agents, such as EPNs, by weakening insect immune systems and detoxification processes. In ongoing laboratory studies, we observed synergistic interactions between the fungicides pyraclostrobin and fluazinam and the insecticide bifenthrin and the EPN Steinernema carpocapsae in 4th instar black cutworm larvae. Similarly, we observed synergistic interactions between the fungicides pyraclostrobin and propiconazole and S. carpocapsae in non-resistant ABW adults in the lab. 

Shaohui Wu (The Ohio State University):

Soil samples were collected from greens, fairways, roughs and weedy areas, representing high, medium, low and no pesticide exposures, respectively, from two golf courses in Autumn 2024 and baited with Galleria mellonella larvae to assess the impact of pesticide uses on entomopathogenic nematodes and fungi. Significantly fewer infected insects were observed in green than other areas for both nematodes and fungi. The impact was likely because high pesticide uses deprived arthropod sources for entomopathogen or directly inhibit them.

Eric Benbow (Michigan State University):

We are in the first year of a new project entitled, Understanding the Hemlock Wooly Adelgid (HWA) and Elongate Hemlock Scale (EHS) Microbiomes for Potential Management Options (Kat Yoskowitz, Deborah G. McCullough, M. Eric Benbow). The objectives of this two-year study are to characterize microbiomes of hemlock shoots (as background microbial communities), along with the internal communities of HWA and EHS across two life cycles for each species. Part of the microbiome characterization includes identifying the relative abundance of taxa uniquely, or predominately, found with HWA and EHS, comparing those microbiomes with each other and with background microbiomes on uninfested hemlock shoots. We will test the hypothesis that HWA and EHS each have unique microbiomes, including target taxa with potential symbiont importance, and that the microbiomes vary seasonally and among life stages. We have made substantial progress in 2025, sampling multiple locations in western Michigan over four time points to capture life history variation. The microbiome processing of those samples is nearly complete, and samples will be sent for sequencing in early 2026.

David Shapiro-Ilan (USDA-ARS):

Goat lice can be serious pests causing dermatitis, anemia, body weight loss and reduced productivity. Chemical insecticides can provide control, but pesticide resistance and environmental concerns indicate that alternative methods are needed. Beneficial (entomopathogenic) nematodes are tiny worms that are used as safe biopesticides to control a wide array of crop pests. These nematodes do not harm humans, other mammals, or the environment. Researchers at USDA-ARS Byron, Georgia, in cooperation with Fort Valley State University, tested five different species of beneficial nematodes for their potential to control goat lice. Results indicated that all nematodes tested can kill goat lice and two species (called Steinernema riobrave and Steinernema carpocapsae) were the most effective. The findings provide a new direction to explore for safe and effective control of goat lice. [Shapiro-Ilan and Sehrish Gulzar (USDA-ARS), Tom Terrill (Fort Valley State University)].

Navneet Kaur (Oregon State University):

We conducted integrated research to evaluate biologically based pest management strategies for grass seed production systems in western Oregon, focusing on winter cutworm (Noctua pronuba) and soil dwelling insect pests. Controlled no choice greenhouse experiments assessed the role of Epichloe endophytes in mediating resistance to winter cutworm in tall fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceus) and perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) cultivars with variable expected endophyte infection levels, measuring insect survival, weight gain, feeding damage, and host biomass at multiple time points. Across two trials, Epichloe infection did not consistently influence winter cutworm survival or growth, and observed differences in feeding damage were largely attributable to cultivar specific traits rather than endophyte levels, highlighting the complexity of grass endophyte insect interactions (Intasin et al., in preparation for Environmental Entomology submission in early 2026). In parallel, a regional survey of commercial grass seed fields in western Oregon identified multiple native or naturalized entomopathogenic nematode strains using standard insect baiting methods, indicating the presence of locally adapted biological control agents with potential for managing soil and thatch dwelling pests. Together, these projects provide foundational knowledge for integrating host plant traits and biological control agents into sustainable integrated pest management programs for Oregon grass seed systems, while informing future field-based evaluations and grower relevant recommendations.

Ann Hajek (Cornell University):

Asian Longhorned Beetle: An invited review paper was written, describing and evaluating our knowledge about Asian longhorned beetle pathogens and their potential use in Biological Control. This paper was part of a special issue of Environmental Entomology.

Spotted Lanternfly: A paper was written describing an epizootic in a spotted lanternfly population caused by the fungal pathogen Batkoa major.

A paper was published presenting results of studies with Batkoa major and spotted lanternfly adults to compare infections when spores were applied to the wings (as would occur when spraying adults) or to the surface on which adults were standing. Levels of infection were much greater when spores were applied to tree bark on which adults were standing. 

Japanese beetles: Japanese beetle adults were sampled across New York State, from Long Island to Lake Erie, to determine whether the microsporidian pathogen Ovavesicula popilliae was present. We know it is present on Long Island, where Japanese beetle populations have declined severely, as is characteristic of areas where this pathogen is well established. Japanese beetles are huge problems in turf and ornamentals and grapes in much of New York, and these samples will be our first attempt to understand the present distribution of this pathogen throughout New York State, with the potential for introducing it to areas where it does not occur in the future.  

Byron Adams (Brigham Young University)

Although my research program has gradually moved away from direct applications of microbial control in agricultural systems, it remains closely aligned with the foundational ecological and mechanistic questions that underlie much of the work represented in our group.  My recent work has focused on understanding how soil microbial and nematode communities respond to environmental gradients, disturbance, and long-term change, particularly in extreme and low-diversity systems; essentially, the ecological rules that govern host–microbe interactions, persistence, and functional resilience.

Over the past year, my group has published several studies that speak directly to themes central to S1070, including microbial and nematode community structure, functional responses to abiotic stress, and the ecological constraints that shape host–microbe interactions.  This includes work using large-scale metagenomic datasets to characterize soil eukaryotic diversity and its environmental drivers, studies examining microbial functional capacity and antibiotic production in extreme soils, and analyses of how climate history and hydrologic variability structure nematode and microbial communities.  Together, these efforts provide a broader ecological framework for understanding why and when microbial and nematode-based biocontrol strategies succeed or fail, particularly under variable environmental conditions.

Many of the same mechanisms that govern microbial persistence, dispersal, and interactions in polar or arid soils also underlie the performance of entomopathogenic nematodes, bacteria, and fungi in agricultural ecosystems. I value the continued connection to this group and appreciate the opportunity to contribute ecological context, comparative perspectives, and conceptual grounding that may help inform applied efforts in microbial control moving forward.

Discussion:

Shaohui Wu formally notified the working group of her intent to relinquish her position as Chair, nominating Eric Clifton, the current Vice-Chair, as her successor. Pasco Avery was promoted from Member-at-Large to Vice-Chair, and Lorenzo Rossi was promoted from Secretary to Member-at-Large. The working group unanimously endorsed this transition. Matthew Brown was nominated as Secretary.

A discussion on potential collaboration opportunities was made. Proposed interest of research may target red-headed flea beetle, white grubs, fall armyworm, wireworms and/or fungus gnats. A Zoom meeting will be required for further collaborative project discussion among interested parties.

The theme for the next ESA symposium was discussed, with a tentative title of “Bridging the science of microbial control with practical use”, targeting formulation and application strategies for end-users.

Microbial related publications (research and outreach) from group members (2024-2025):

1. Acharya R, Barman AK, Shapiro-Ilan DI. 2025. Entomopathogenic nematodes in pecan orchards in Georgia and their virulence on selected pecan pests. Journal of Economic Entomology. In Press (Accepted 3-12-2025).
2. Bakry MMS, Avery PB. 2025. Monitoring and spatial distribution pattern of the red scale insect Aoinidella aurantii (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) infesting guava trees. Journal of Water and Land Development. 65(4-6): 209-218. https://doi.org/10.24425/jwld.2025.154265.
3. Bakry MMS, Avery PB, Tolba EFM. 2025. Response and evaluation of some mango cultivars to striped mealybug, Ferrisia virgata (Cockerell) infestation in southern Egypt. Assiut Journal of Agricultural Sciences. 56(2): 161-177. https://doi.org/21608/ajas.2025.362318.1464.
4. Berto MM, Cruz LF, Avery PB, Cloonan KR, Dunlap C, Carrillo D. 2025. Beyond phoresy: interactions between Histiogaster arborsignis (Acari: Acaridae), ambrosia beetles and their fungal symbionts in Florida avocados. Symbiosis. 96: 91-104. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13199-025-01063-0 .
5. Campos-Herrera R, Georgia R, Londono DK, Malan A, Molina C, Shapiro-Ilan D, Soler R, Stock S, Vandenbossche B. 2025. Connecting academia and industry: Advancing the use of entomopathogenic nematodes to tackle emerging challenges and opportunities in modern agriculture. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology 211: 108350. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2025.108350.
6. Childress MK, Dragone NB, Young BD, Adams BJ, Fierer N, Quandt CA. 2025. Three new Pseudogymnoascus species (Pseudeurotiaceae, Thelebolales) described from Antarctic soils. IMA Fungus 16: e142219. https://doi.org/10.3897/imafungus.16.142219.
7. Clifton EH, van Nouhuys SD, Harris DC, Hajek AE. 2025. Epizootiology of infections by Batkoa major (Entomophthorales: Batkoaceae) and Beauveria bassiana (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) in spotted lanternfly (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) populations. Environmental Entomology 54(6): 1261-1270. https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvaf091.
8. Devotto L, Avery PB. 2025. Biological control with entomopathogenic fungi: history and current use in Chile. Authorea. https://doi.org/22541/au.176244979.99279685/v1
9. Dragone NB, Childress MK, Vanderburgh C, Hogg ID, Sancho LG, Lee CK, Barrett JE, Adams BJ, LeMonte JJ, Willmore R, Quandt CA, Fierer N. 2025a. Geochemical, physicochemical, and genomic data from a continental-scale survey of microbial diversity in Antarctic soils (2003-2023) ver 1. Environmental Data Initiative.
10. Dragone NB, Childress MK, Vanderburgh C, Willmore R, Hogg ID, Sancho LG, Lee CK, Barrett JE, Quandt CA, LeMonte JJ, Adams BJ, Fierer N. 2025b. A comprehensive survey of soil microbial diversity across the Antarctic continent. Polar Biology 48: 50. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00300-025-03372-y.
11. Elgar S, Villari C, Fair C, Shapiro-Ilan D, Chavez DJ, Blaauw BR. 2025. Evaluation of beauvericin production in endophytic and epiphytic Beauveria bassiana in peach (Prunus persica): Implications for insect biocontrol. Frontiers in Fungal Biology. In Press (Accepted 11-5-2025).
12. Elgar SA, Shapiro-Ilan DI, Mota-Sanchez D, Wise J, Blaauw BR. 2025. Comparison of hydrogels to enhance the environmental tolerance of the entomopathogenic nematode, Steinernema carpocapsae to target aboveground insect pests such as the lesser peachtree borer (Synanthedon pictipes). Biological Control 208: 105850. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2025.105850.
13. Farrer S, Borgmeier A, Jung J, Werner M, Adams B. Preparation and Imaging of Monhysterid Nematodes from the Great Salt Lake with a Scanning Electron Microscope. Microscopy and Microanalysis 31(7): 905-906. https://doi.org/10.1093/mam/ozaf048.463.
14. Gaffke AM, Griesheimer JL, Lewis EE, Shapiro-Ilan D, Kaplan F, Alborn HT. 2025. Multi-component trail pheromones of the entomopathogenic nematodes Steinernema diaprepesi and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology 215: 108514. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2025.108514.
15. Gitonga D, Desaeger J, Shapiro-Ilan D, Hajihassani A. 2025. Effect of integrating cover crops and bionematicides on nematode management in organic zucchini. Nematology. In Press (Accepted 2-28-2025).
16. Gulzar S, Slusher K, Kaplan F, Lewis EE, Hobbs S, Shapiro-Ilan D. 2025. Effect of different soils on pheromone enhanced movement of entomopathogenic nematodes. Journal of Nematology 57: e2025-1. https://doi.org/10.2478/jofnem-2025-0009.
17. Gulzar S, Terrill T, Siddique A, Burke J, Shapiro-Ilan D. 2025. Relative virulence, host finding ability and reproductive capacity of entomopathogenic nematodes for control of the goat biting louse Bovicola caprae (Phthiraptera: Trichodectidae). Veterinary Parasitology 339: 110572. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vetpar.2025.110572.
18. Hajek AE, Clifton EH, Solter LE. 2025. Entomopathogens for control of Asian longhorned beetles (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae). Environmental Entomology 54(4): 669-678. https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvaf016.
19. Hajek AE, Everest TA, Jaronski ST. 2025. Application of Beauveria bassiana conidia to spotted lanternfly forewings causes fewer infections than abdominal applications. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology 211: 108335. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2025.108335.
20. Hajek AE, Scott K, Sanchez-Pena S, Tkaczuk C, Lovett B, Bushley K. 2025. Annotated checklist of arthropod-pathogenic species in the Entomophthoromycotina (Fungi: Zoopagomycota) in North America. MycoKeys 114: 329-366. https://doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.114.139257.
21. Islam T, Brown MS, Heckman JR, Koppenhofer AM. 2025. Silicon fertilization suppresses black cutworm performance and enhances nematode-induced cutworm mortality. Crop Protection 198: 107383. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cropro.2025.107383.
22. Jackson AC, Leavitt SD, Porazinska D, Wall DH, Powers TO, Harris TS, and Adams BJ. 2025. Effect of climate history on the genetic structure of an Antarctic soil nematode. Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fevo.2025.1295369.
23. Jalloh A, Uyi O, Chitturi A, Basu S, Mutua JM, Mutyambai D, Perier J, Owolanke T, Ejomah A, Toews MD. 2025. Harnessing natural enemies for the management of Bemisia tabaci: A review of the role of predators, parasitoids and entomopathogens. Frontiers in Insect Science 5: 1684672. https://doi.org/10.3389/fagro.2025.1684672.
24. Jung J, Murray TR, Marcue MC, Powers T, Farrer S, Borgmeier A, Adams BJ, Wang JA, Fonseca G, Werner MS. 2025. Diplolaimelloides woaabi n. (Nematoda: Monhysteridae): A Novel Species of Free-Living Nematode from the Great Salt Lake, Utah. Journal of Nematology 57. https://doi.org/10.2478/jofnem-2025-0048.
25. Koppenhofer AM, Foye S. 2024. Interactions with agrochemicals and biological control agents. In: Entomopathogenic Nematodes as Biological Control Agents (Shapiro-Ilan DI, Lewis EE), pp. 494–518. CABI Publishing, Wallingford, UK. https://doi.org/10.1079/9781800620322.0027.
26. Koppenhofer AM, Sousa AL. 2024. New strains of the entomopathogenic nematodes Steinernema scarabaei, glaseri, and S. cubanum for white grub management. Insects 15(12): 1022. https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15121022.
27. Koppenhofer AM, Sousa AL. 2024. Turfgrass and pasture applications. In: Entomopathogenic Nematodes as Biological Control Agents (Shapiro-Ilan DI, Lewis EE), pp. 370–391. CABI Publishing, Wallingford, UK. https://doi.org/10.1079/9781800620322.0021.
28. Koppenhofer AM, Sousa AL, Kostromytska OS, Wu S. 2025. Effect of pyrethroid resistance on the efficacy of entomopathogenic nematodes for the control of Listronotus maculicollis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Biological Control 200: 105683. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2024.105683.
29. Lai P-C, Sandhi RK, Vetrovec O, Testa T, Shields E, Nault BA. 2025. Evaluation of endemic entomopathogenic nematodes for managing Colorado potato beetle and tuber-damaging pests in potato. Crop Protection 187: 106980. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cropro.2024.106980.
30. Martinez-Koury P, Baxter J, Keller DM, Jagniecki EA, Farrer SB, Adams BJ, Baxter BK. 2025. Mineral Microbiomes Entombed in Great Salt Lake Gypsum: Considerations for Martian Evaporites. Astrobiology 25(8): 563-583. https://doi.org/10.1177/15311074251365204.
31. Mbata GN, Browning K, Warsi S, Li Y, Ellis JD, Kanga LH, Shapiro-Ilan DI. 2025. Comparative virulence of entomopathogenic nematodes to the small hive beetle (Aethina tumida Murray, Coleoptera: Nitidulidae). Journal of Nematology 57: e2025-1. https://doi.org/10.2478/jofnem-2025-0011.
32. Morgan-Kiss RM, Adams BJ, Pothula SK, Kalra I, Sherwell S, Barrett JE, Seddon R, Devlin SP, Doran P, Gooseff MN, Hawes I, McKnight DM, Priscu JC, Takacs-Vesbach C. 2025. Climate-driven hydrological connectivity alters littoral and ice-covered ecosystems of Antarctic lake margins. Frontiers in Freshwater Science.
33. Neal AS, Avery PB, Cave RD. 2025. Mortality rates and feeding behavior of adult Myllocerus undecimpustulatus undatus Marshall (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) exposed to four biopesticides on peach foliage in field cages. Crop Protection 194: 107218. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cropro.2025.107218.
34. Novis PM, Monks A, Hunt JE, Adams B, Dhami MK, Kim JH, Mitchell C, Morgan F, Hawes I, Aislabie J, Broady P. 2025. Inference from eDNA-based field distributions vs laboratory analysis of isolated strains: physiological performance of non-marine Antarctic biota. Polar Biology 48: 36. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00300-025-03356-y.
35. Perier JD, Kaplan F, Hobbs S, Lewis EE, Simmons AM, Toews MD, Shapiro-Ilan DI. 2025. Enhanced efficacy of pheromone-treated entomopathogenic nematodes against whiteflies in foliar applications with a gel adjuvant. Biological Control 205: 105766. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2025.105766.
36. Perier JD, Kaplan F, Lewis EE, Elsensohn JE, Kropf AL, Toews MD, Shapiro-Ilan DI. 2025. Semiochemicals enhancing entomopathogenic nematodes efficacy in pest management. In: Coats J, Norris E, Kraus GA, editors. Green chemistry for pest management. Cambridge, U.K.: Royal Society of Chemistry. In Press (Accepted 4-4-2025).
37. Perier JD, Wu S, Arthurs SP, Toews MD, Shapiro-Ilan DI. 2025. Persistence of the entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema feltiae in a novel capsule formulation. Biological Control 200: 105684. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2024.105684.
38. Samadaei N, Rahimpour M, Kamali S, Karimi J, Koppenhofer AM. 2024. Efficacy of native Iranian entomopathogenic nematodes against Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata Wiedemann (Diptera: Tephritidae). Journal of Crop Health 76: 1053–1062. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10343-024-01027-2.
39. Shapiro-Ilan DI, Kaplan F. 2025. Methods for Increasing Infectivity of Entomopathogenic Nematodes. US Patent No. 12,274,268 B2. Patent Issued 4-15-2025.
40. Shapiro-Ilan DI, Ment D, Ramakrishnan J, Rodriguez MG, Duncan LW. 2025. A century of advancement in entomopathogenic nematode formulation and application technology. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology 212: 108389. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2025.108389.
41. Sirmans S, Avery PB, Cicero J, Hunter W, Cave RD, Carrillo D. 2025. Persistence of three biopesticides containing entomopathogenic fungi under tree canopy conditions in Florida, USA. Biocontrol Science and Technology, 35(2): 159–171. https://doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2024.2433534.
42. Slusher EK, Shields E, Harges W, Perier JD, Shapiro-Ilan DI. 2025. Evaluation of persistent versus commercial strains for management of Curculio caryae (Horn) and other weevils in pecan. Biological Control 202: 105705. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2025.105705.
43. Snyder MD, Adams BJ, Borgmeier A, Jorna J, Power SN, Salvatore MR, Barrett JE. 2025. Soil biota sensitivity to hydroclimate variability in a polar desert ecosystem. Arctic, Antarctic, and Alpine Research 57: 2485283. https://doi.org/10.1080/15230430.2025.2485283.
44. Steffan SA, Gulzar S, Oliveira-Hofman C, Shapiro-Ilan DI. 2025. Grower-based in vivo propagation of entomopathogenic nematodes. Journal of Visualized Experiments (JOVE). Accepted 12-11-2025.
45. Stock SP, Campos-Herrera R, Shapiro-Ilan D. 2025. The first 100 years in the history of entomopathogenic nematodes. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology 211: 108302. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2025.108302.
46. Thompson AR, Adams BJ, Hogg ID, Yooseph S. 2025. Evidence for Trace Gas Metabolism and Widespread Antibiotic Synthesis in an Abiotically Driven, Antarctic Soil Ecosystem. Environmental Microbiology Reports 17: e70249. https://doi.org/10.1111/1758-2229.70249.
47. Touray M, Ulug D, Cimen H, Gulsen SH, Bursali F, Shapiro-Ilan D, Butt TM, Hazir S. 2025. Potential negative effects of introduced or augmented entomopathogens on non-target predators and parasitoids. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology 212: 108394. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2025.108394.
48. Vilonen L, Thompson A, Adams B, Ayres E, Franco ALC, Wall DH. 2026. Characterising Soil Eukaryotic Diversity From NEON Metagenomics Datasets. Molecular Ecology Resources 26: e70062. https://doi.org/10.1111/1755-0998.70062.
49. Wakil W, Jia H, Kavallieratos NG, Eleftheriadou N, Abid A, Avery PB. Morphological and molecular identification of Spodoptera frugiperda, and alien lepidopteran pest invading maize fields in Pakistan. Phytoparastica. In Press (Accepted 12-15-2025).
50. Wakil W, Boukouvala MC, Kavallieratos NG, Naeem A, Haider SA, Ghazanfar MU, Avery PB. 2025. Laboratory and greenhouse endophytic colonization of tomato by three entomopathogenic fungal isolates for the management of Tetranychus urticae and field efficacy trials. Crop Protection 198: 107394. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cropro.2025.107394.
51. Wakil W, Boukouvala MC, Kavallieratos NG, Naeem A, Ntinokas D, Ghazanfar MU, Avery PB. 2025. The inevitable fate of Tetranychus urticae on tomato plants treated with entomopathogenic fungi and spinosad. Journal of Fungi. 11(2):138. https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11020138.
52. Wakil W, Iftikhar S, Kavallieratos NG, Gidari DLS, Boukouvala MC, Razzaq M, Avery PB. 2025. Laboratory evaluation of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana, bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, and insecticide emamectin benzoate treatments, alone and in dual combinations against Spodoptera frugiperda. Crop Protection 200: 107446. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cropro.2025.107446.
53. Xue X, Wall DH, Adams BJ. 2025. Nematodes in Extreme Environments. Pages 167-181 in Kakouli-Duarte T, Korthals G, Sanchez Moreno S, du Preez G, de Goede RGM, editors. Nematodes as Environmental Indicators. CABI.
54. Zeng S, Zhan H, Yi J, Fu H, Ji Z, Chen C, Shapiro-Ilan D, Li X. 2025. Comparative assessment of a Chinese indigenous entomopathogenic nematode versus a commercial strain for the biological control of Spodoptera frugiperda. Biological Control 208: 105844. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2025.105844.
55. Zhang M, Spaulding NR, Reddy GVP, Shapiro-Ilan DI. 2025. Laboratory and greenhouse assessments of Steinernema carpocapsae with three adjuvants on Chrysodeixis includens. Journal of Nematology 57: e2025-1. https://doi.org/10.2478/jofnem-2025-0034.
56. Zhang M, Spaulding N, Reddy VP, Shapiro-Ilan DI. 2025. The effects of adjuvants on Steinernema carpocapsae efficacy against Chrysodeixis includens and suspension stability. Journal of Nematology. In Press (Accepted 12-10-2025).
57. Zulu S, Ramakuwela T, Baimey H, Laing M, Shapiro-Ilan D, Cochrane N. 2025. Storage capacity of entomopathogenic nematodes in Barricade® gel and potassium polyacrylate hydrogel. Journal of Nematology. In Press (Accepted 2-25-2025).