The use of insect parasitic nematodes to control soil Insects, including many turfgrass and Garden pests, has received increased attention in the past few years. They are sold under such trade names as BioSafe, BioVector, Scanmask, Exhibit, Oti-Nem, and Guardian. However, their increasing availability and rising public demand for alternatives to insecticides has heightened interest in parasitic nematodes. Nematodes are a type of roundworm in the phylum Nematoda. This is a different order of animals from the segmented worms, such as earthworms and flatworms.
Nematodes are abundant, particularly in soil.
Many feed on bacteria, some attack plants, and others can be parasites of animals. However, each species is usually specific in its habits. They do not attack mammals, birds or plants. Two genera of insect parasitic nematodes have been most actively considered for control of insect pests. Recent attention has shifted to include the genus Heterorhabditis.