Steinernema feltiae - Beneficial Nematodes for Fungus Gnat Control

Description Life Cycle Use in Biological Control Application Rates Instructions for Use Steinernema feltiae are beneficial nematodes used to control fungus gnats and western flower thrips in the soil. Nematodes are safe for plants, people and pets and are an organic solution in place of harmful pesticides. S. feltiae are active in cooler weather and will survive and infect hosts in temperatures as low as 50F. A complete life cycle takes 12 to 15 days at room temperature. Media temperatures should be above 50F but not more than 80F. Optimum media temperatures are between 60-70F. The nematodes enter the insect pest through body openings. Once inside they reproduce and release a symbiotic bacterium which is toxic to the host. The pests are killed within a few days and a second generation of infective juvenile nematodes exit the host and begin the cycle again. Use beneficial nematodes as part of an IPM program. Entomopathogenic nematodes are supplied as infective juveniles, which are