Can scavenging suppress application success of pathogenic nematodes?

Abstract: Two-choice trials were used to assess prey choice of the generalist predator/ scavengerPterostichus melanarius (Coleoptera: Carabidae) between Deroceras reticulatum (Mollusca:Agriolimacidae) slugs or wax moth Galleria mellonella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) larvae killed byinfection of P. hermaphrodita /Steinernema affine and control killed by freezing. We demonstratethat the presence of either of the two nematodes tested deters the beetles from consuminginfected cadavers. This mechanism enables the nematodes to survive extreme scavengingpressure during their development inside cadavers.