Development of Pilot Plant and Bio-Agent Mass Production Technology of Entomopathogenic Nematodes for Commercialization

Abstract

The area of sixty square meters has been developed for the purpose mass production of entomopathogenic nematodes at the Nematology Section, Plant Pathology Research Group, Plant Protection Research and Development Office during 2005-2007.  This project is expected to be a model for producing entomopathogenic nematodes for commercial purposes.  The area was divided into separate segments by operation.  Each section has a specific purpose namely preparation and packaging of culture media, preparing stock of nematode starters, inoculating and culturing nematodes, washing prducts out of culture media, and  accurate counting of nematodes prior to packaging and storing of the products before distribution.  The using of inexpensive and easy materials to purchase were included as well as the techniques which saved time; increased efficiency and the limied amount of investment in a range of 128,000-210,000 baht.  Mass production of the nematodes was done by using semi-solid media containing eggs, lard and water at the ratio of 5:2:3.  The media (500 g) was mixed with 30 g of spongy cubes (1x1x1 cm) prior to cooking in a heat stable container (10 liter).  After sterilization for 2 hours 30 minutes, the axenic culture was then incubated at room temperature (26+-2C) for 7 days.  Then nematodes were washed out of the spongy media inan automatic washing machine.  The healthy nematodes washed, were further selected by using a filter.  The filter was originally buit from inexpensive but strong materials while providing high efficiency by filtering 123.8 million nematodes per 1 lilter of media.  The end products of nematodes wee maintained in a polymer at an amount of 5 million per pack having a shelf-life of 60-90 days at room temperature.  The costs of this technology was 40,000 baht per month for materials and the labour of 1 worker, or 80,000 baht per month for materials and 2 workers.  The implement of model was being possibly produced 6,000 and 12,000 packs per month respectively.  Therefore, the cost of production was equal to 6.67 baht per pack with the selling price not to exceed 30 baht.  Commercial value was equal to 6,000x30 = 180,000 baht and 12,000x30 = 360,000 baht respectively.  However, after deducting from prevention cost and marketing (30%) this technology generated a profit equal to 180,000-40,000-54,000 = 86,000 and 360,000-80,000-108,000=172,000 baht respectively.