BioWorks NemaShield Beneficial Nematodes

The NemaShield line of beneficial nematodes comprises a configurable biological insecticide system for professional pest management in greenhouse, nursery, and controlled agricultural environments. This family of products leverages specific species and strategic combinations of entomopathogenic nematodes (Steinernema feltiae and Steinernema carpocapsae) to target distinct soil-dwelling pest complexes. They are supplied on hydrated cellulose sponges in two standardized concentrations, allowing for precise, scalable application based on pest pressure and target area. All products are exempt from EPA registration and are compatible with integrated pest management (IPM) programs.

Biological Agents and Product Configuration
The efficacy of the NemaShield system is derived from the selection of the appropriate nematode species, each with distinct host-seeking behaviors and pest spectra. The line is offered in single-species and pre-mixed combination formulations.

• Steinernema feltiae (Sf): A highly mobile, "cruiser"-type nematode active in cooler soil temperatures, ideal for fungus gnat larvae and soil-dwelling thrips pupae.

• Steinernema carpocapsae (Sc): A sedentary "ambusher"-type nematode that remains near the soil surface, effective against caterpillars (cutworms, armyworms), fly larvae, beetle grubs, and other surface-active pests.

The configurable NemaShield Invivo sponge products are available in the following standardized specifications:

Mode of Action
NemaShield nematodes are non-feeding, infective juveniles that actively seek out host insects in the growing medium. They enter the pest through natural body openings, release symbiotic bacteria (Xenorhabdus spp.) into the host's hemolymph, and cause fatal septicemia within 24 to 48 hours. The bacteria convert host tissues into nutrients, allowing the nematodes to reproduce inside the cadaver. A new generation of infective juveniles emerges from the depleted host to search for additional pests, providing sustained biological control.

Target Pests and Application Specifications
Selection is based on the primary pest complex. S. feltiae (Sf) targets fungus gnat larvae and the prepupal/pupal stages of Western flower thrips within the potting media. S. carpocapsae (Sc) targets a wider range of surface-dwelling and boring insects, including cutworms, armyworms, sod webworms, fly larvae, and various weevil grubs. The combination product (Sfc) provides concurrent control of both pest groups.

Standard Application Protocol:

• Viability Check: Before application, assess nematode viability by placing a small sample in a clear container with a few drops of room-temperature water on a dark background. Active nematodes will exhibit a slight "J"-shaped curvature and movement; straight, motionless nematodes are non-viable.

• Mixing: Fully hydrate the sponge in a volume of non-chlorinated water. Agitate thoroughly to suspend all nematodes. Apply the entire solution as a soil drench or through irrigation systems, ensuring filters finer than 50 mesh are removed to prevent damage to the nematodes.

• Application Rate: General application rates for sponge-based, in vivo-produced nematodes are approximately 1 million nematodes per 1,000 square feet. This correlates to one 6-million sponge treating roughly 6,000 sq ft for preventative control. For established infestations, rates should be increased proportionally.

• Timing & Environment: Apply during low-light conditions (dawn or dusk) and ensure the growing media is moist prior to and after application. Optimal soil temperatures are 60-80°F (15-27°C) for S. feltiae and 72-82°F (22-28°C) for S. carpocapsae.

Efficacy and Performance Data
A single application provides rapid pest knockdown, with insect feeding ceasing and mortality occurring within 24-48 hours of infection. For fungus gnats, an application at the first sign of adults or larvae is sufficient to prevent population outbreaks. The biological lifecycle of the nematodes within the host cadavers can provide secondary cycling and control for 2-4 weeks post-application, depending on pest density and environmental conditions.

Regulatory and Safety Profile

• EPA Status: Exempt from pesticide registration requirements.

• Restricted Entry Interval (REI): 0 hours.

• Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI): 0 days.

• Safety Profile: Non-toxic and non-pathogenic to plants, mammals, birds, and non-target soil organisms. No adverse effects on non-target organisms have been observed in field studies. Compatible with other beneficial organisms, including microbial fungicides like RootShield®.

Storage, Stability, and Handling

• Storage: Upon receipt, store unopened sponges in a refrigerator at 38-42°F (3-6°C). Do not freeze.

• Shelf Life: Use by the expiration date printed on the package. For optimal viability, apply immediately or within 1-2 weeks of receipt.

• Shipping: These are live biological products. They are typically shipped overnight or in 1-2 days via specialized carrier services to ensure viability.