Genome-wide analyses provide insights into genetic variation, phylo- and co-phylogenetic relationships, and biogeography of the entomopathogenic nematode genus Heterorhabditis.

Multigene, genus-wide phylogenetic studies have uncovered the limited taxonomic resolution power of commonly used gene markers, particularly of rRNA genes, to discriminate closely related species of the nematode genus Heterorhabditis. In addition, conflicting tree topologies are often obtained using the different gene markers, which limits our understanding of the phylo- and co-phylogenetic relationships and biogeography of the entomopathogenic nematode genus Heterorhabditis. Here we carried out phylogenomic reconstructions using whole nuclear and mitochondrial genomes, and whole ribosomal operon sequences, as well as multiple phylogenetic reconstructions using various single nuclear and mitochondrial genes.

Scab Intensity in Pecan Trees in Relation to Hedge-Pruning Methods.

Pecan is a valuable nut crop cultivated in the southeastern United States. Among the major yield-limiting factors in the region is scab, caused by the plant pathogenic fungus . Managing scab in tall trees (15 to 25+ m) in pecan orchards is challenging because of the limitations of getting sufficient spray coverage throughout the canopy.

The Efficacy of Entomopathogenic Nematodes Plus an Adjuvant against and in Aboveground Applications.

In the southern United States, corn earworm, (Boddie), and soybean looper, (Walker) are economically important crop pests. Although Bt crops initially provided effective control of target pests such as , many insect pests have developed resistance to these Bt crops. Alternative approaches are needed, including biological control agents such as entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs).

Group Movement in Entomopathogenic Nematodes: Aggregation Levels Vary Based on Context.

Maintenance of an aggregated population structure implies within-species communication. In mixed-species environments, species-specific aggregations may reduce interspecific competition and promote coexistence. We studied whether movement and aggregation behavior of three entomopathogenic nematode species changed when isolated, as compared to mixed-species arenas.