Evaluation of the insect parasitic nematode, Sphaerularia vespae, as a biological control agent for hornets

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Recently, we found an insect-parasitic nematode from the queen of common hornet, Vespa simillima, from Hokkaido and described it as a new species, Sphaerularia vespae. We also confirmed S. vespae sterilizes the queen hornets. In this study, we examined the host range, geographical distribution and life history of the nematode. Then we clarified that S. vespae parasitizes V.mandarinia and V.dybowskii in addition to V.simillima among seven species of Japanese hornets, (Vespa spp.) ; inhabits three Japanese main islands (Hokkaido, Honshu, and Kyushu) ; and infests gynes (potential queens of next generation) in their hibernation site. In consideration of its hosts including two most dangerous species, V.mandarinia and V.simillima, its wide geographical distribution in Japan and its infection route, we concluded that S. vespae is a promising candidate for the biological control agent of hornets.