Objectives of COST Action 850

The main objective of COST 850 is to develop a better understanding of the interactions taking place in those symbioses that may be used against insect and slug pests in Europe and to enhance their use in biological control.

Biocontrol symbiosis involves nematodes (Steinernema, Heterorhabditis) and their specialized symbiotic bacteria (Xenorhabdus, Photorhabdus) that live with the nematodes and are essential for the nematodes to kill their prey. Another nematode Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita is associated with more than one bacterium species for killing slugs. Other bacteria living intimately with those same nematodes or insect hosts (e.g. Wolbachia sp.) may influence sex ratios or otherwise manipulate nematode and insect life histories.

Thus this action brings together bacteriologists, nematologists, entomologists, malacologists, biochemists, molecular biologists and industry with the aim to integrate their efforts to understand and exploit the peculiar attributes of symbioses.

The scientific cooperation is organised within five working groups (WGs).

More Information: See MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING, TECHNICAL ANNEX, Background and Objectives & Benefits.

Download Brochure (PDF, 737 KB): COST ACTION 850 "Biocontrol Symbiosis" 2001-2006

Symbiotic bacteria in the gut of a nematode (Steinernema sp.)