@article{MAKHILLRJAS202519131863,
    title = {Spatial Distribution and Diversity of Entomopathogenic Nematodes in Orchards of Dir Lower},
    journal = {Research Journal of Applied Sciences},
    volume = {19},
    number = {1},
    pages = {7-13},
    year = {2025},
    issn = {1815-932x},
    doi = {makrjas.2025.7.13},
    url = {https://makhillpublications.co/view-article.php?issn=1815-932x&doi=makrjas.2025.7.13},
    author = {Madieha,Fawad,Abdul and},
    keywords = {Microscopic, Xenorhabdus},
    abstract = {This study investigates the presence and diversity of entomopathogenic
nematodes (EPNs) in soil samples collected from orchards across five
regions of district Dir Lower, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A total of 50
soil samples were collected from Tehsil Khall, Tehsil Adenzai, Tehsil
Timergara, Tehsil Lal Qala and Tehsil Balambot, at a depth of 15‐20 cm.
The baiting technique was employed to isolate EPNs, with the larvae
exposed to soil samples in controlled conditions. The results revealed
significant variation in EPN prevalence between regions. In Tehsil Khall,
all 10 samples from peach orchards tested positive for Steinernema,
indicating a 100% detection rate. In contrast, Tehsil Adenzai’s citrus
orchards showed no EPN presence, with all 10 samples testing negative.
Mixed results were observed in Tehsil Timergara, where Heterorhabditis
species were found in 40% of the apricot orchards, while the rest tested
negative. Tehsil Lal Qala exhibited a high detection rate, with 80% of
citrus orchard samples testing positive for Steinernema. In Tehsil
Balambot, diverse crops like okra, guava and figs exhibited varied EPN
species, including Steinernema in okra and figs and Heterorhabditis in
guava. Overall, this study highlights the significant role of environmental
factors in determining the distribution of EPNs, with Steinernema
dominating in certain areas, while Heterorhabditis was more common in
others. The absence of EPNs in Tehsil Adenzai emphasizes the variability
of nematode populations across different agricultural environments.}
    }