Breeding Vine Weevils for Nematodes

Discussion in 'Wildlife Corner' started by Posh, Oct 12, 2022.

  1. Posh

    Posh Apprentice Gardener

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    Hi,

    I would like to know the best and efficient way to breed contained Vine Weevils in the masses so I can use them to feed Vine Weevil Nematodes.
     
  2. NigelJ

    NigelJ Total Gardener

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    @Posh The nematodes are bred in large vats containing nutrients and bacteria, they are then transferred to, I think bran, which is shipped to the customer.
    The nematodes don't kill the vine weevils directly, they enter the body openings of the vine weevil larvae and then the bacteria the nematodes carry, infect and kill the larvae.
    The nematodes are not passed directly between the larvae.
    Nematodes move in water bound to the soil grains, hence the requirement to use when soil is moist and kept moist.
    Most damage to plants is done by the vine weevil larvae eating the plant roots rather than the adults nibbling on the leaves
     
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