Distribuição espacial de nematoides entomopatogênicos e sua relação com variáveis edáficas em cafezais sob manejo regenerativo

Abstract

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are promising allies in the integrated management of coffee pests, but their dynamics in regenerative systems of the Cerrado Mineiro remain poorly understood. We assessed the occurrence of EPNs in the soil and their relationship with edaphic attributes in three commercial plots of Coffea arabica L. under regenerative management. EPNs were isolated using Tenebrio molitor L. (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) larvae as bait and the White trap method, and occurrence was modeled using logistic regression at two scales. Soil compaction did not explain the presence of EPNs within plots; between plots, soil moisture showed a consistent positive association, whereas β-glucosidase and compaction were not determinant factors. The models showed good calibration and moderate discrimination.We conclude that differences among plots and higher soil moisture are associated with an increased probability of EPN occurrence, suggesting that monitoring and water management should consider wetter zones as priority areas to enhance biological control.