Abstract

The primary management strategy against the invasive fall armyworm (FAW) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on maize in Ghana involves the application of synthetic insecticides. However, this approach has raised concerns related to human, animal and ecological health, prompting the exploration of alternative, environmentally friendly management strategies. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) have shown efficacy against FAW and other insect pests. To address challenges associated with morphological identification, this study employed molecular diagnostic tools, specifically PCR sequencing, on EPN samples collected from FAW larvae cadavers across Ghana. The PCR products were subsequently sequenced using the Sanger sequencing approach. A Nucleotide BLAST search identified the EPNs as belonging to the genus Metarhabditis, specifically Metarhabditis rainai (formerly named Rhabditis rainai). The precise identification of entomopathogenic nematodes through molecular techniques is crucial for the potential utilization of these biocontrol agents against fall armyworm on maize in Ghana and beyond.

Key words: Entomopathogenic nematodes, Detection, Molecular technique, Taxonomy.