The rhabditid nematode, Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita (Schneider), is a soil dwelling parasite capable of killing several pest species of slugs. The nematode is currently available in the UK under the trade name Nemaslug. Recent research in the USA showed the efficacy of this nematode for managing pest slug population present there, and local nematode producers have expressed interest to import P. hermaphrodita. Some concern arises that earthworms could be infected by P. hermaphrodita. To address this issue an acute test with the earthworms (Eisenia fetida) were performed based on part upon the procedures outlined in the OECD Guideline 207. Adults of (Eisenia fetida) were exposed during a 21-day period in an artificial soil substrate to three concentrations (1x, 10x and 50x) of P. hermaphrodita. Non-treated soil and an attenuated (autoclaved) formulation were used as controls. Each treatment had four replicate test chambers, each containing ten worms. The average body weight, burrowing behavior, mortality and other clinical signals of the earthworms were evaluated at 0, 7, 14 and 21 days. In addition injured earthworms (half cut) were exposed to the 10x concentrations of the commercial formulation. No statistically significant differences in any parameters evaluated were found at any concentration tested when compared to the control groups including the injured earthworms.
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