Beneficial Nematodes for Fleas

Overview

Fleas can be a real pest for your garden and crop, so it is important to find an effective method to get rid of fleas without any side effects on the environment. There are many ways to fight against flea infestations, one of the easiest and eco-friendliest solutions being beneficial nematodes. Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms that attack fleas and infect them with bacteria, killing the insects rapidly.

Steinernema carpocapsae is the most-used species of beneficial nematodes. Once a pest (such as a flea) is attacked by Steinernema carpocapsae, the nematode releases symbiotic bacteria that poisons the victim’s blood. The bacteria then consumes the pest from inside out. Steinernema carpocapsae nematodes are not dangerous to humans, pets or plants, as they only attack fleas and other small insects. The beneficial nematodes are applied by spraying over the desired surface, and effects can be seen after a minimum of three days. This species of nematodes is effective in cooler areas.

Steinernema feltiae has the same characteristics and behavior as Steinernema carpocapsae, but this nematode is better adapted for warmer regions. Steinernema feltiae is also recommended for foliar application. For Steinernema feltiae and Steinernema carpocapsae, a spread of 10,000,000 nematodes per 3,200 square feet is recommended.

Combined nematodes are a combination of Steinernema carpocapsae and Steinernema feltiae. The result from the combination of the two species is another type of nematodes, which are suitable for both hot and colder climates, thus being effective in a higher variety of environments. The required spread is the same as for the parent species. Keep in mind that nematodes are living organisms, so they also reproduce. Do not overspread the nematodes in an attempt to get faster or improved results, because an over-population of nematodes might actually reduce their efficacy.