Steinernema websteri sp. n. (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae), a new entomopathogenic nematode from China

Abstract

Steinernema websteri sp. n. is a new entomopathogenic nematode isolated in Beijin, China. Morphological, molecular (28S rDNA sequence and RFLP analyses), and cross-breeding tests were used for diagnostic purposes. Additionally, 28S rDNA sequence data was used to assess phylogenetic relationships of this new species with other Steinernema spp. Morphological diagnostic features include: maximum body width (average: 21 pm), excretory pore position (average: 36 pm), D% value (average: 31) and E% value (average: 77) of the third-stage infective juvenile; excretory pore position (average: 62 pm), cloacal body width (average: 37.5 pm), tail length (average: 29 pm), D% (average: 40) and morphology of spicules and gubernaculum of the first generation male.