The growing reliance on chemical pesticides in agriculture has raised significant concerns about their environmental and health impacts. This study investigates the potential of Indigenous entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), specifically Steinernema pakistanense and Heterorhabditis indica, as biological control agents for Leucinodes orbonalis, the brinjal fruit and shoot borer, a major pest in Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan. A comprehensive soil sampling was carried out across 30 locations. Molecular identification via PCR and sequencing confirmed the taxonomic classification of the isolated strains, showing high genetic similarity to known EPN species. The reproductive potential of the isolated strains varied, with Pak.S.SA.22 exhibiting the highest fecundity, averaging 91,944 offspring per larva, indicating strong biocontrol potential. Laboratory bioassays at different concentrations showed that Pak.S.SA.22 achieved 100% mortality of L. orbonalis at a concentration of 200 IJs/mL, confirming its effectiveness. Field trials further validated these findings, demonstrating up to 90% pest control efficacy over multiple application intervals, highlighting the practical applicability of this strain in field conditions. These results advocate for the inclusion of indigenous EPNs in integrated pest management (IPM) programs as a sustainable, environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides, contributing to the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices.

The emergence of infectious diseases presents a significant global health, economic, and security risk. Climate change can unexpectedly lead to the spread of pathogens, vectors, or hosts into new areas, contributing to the rise of infectious diseases. Surveillance plays a crucial role in monitoring disease trends and implementing control strategies. In this study, we document the first discovery of Heterobilharzia americana, a parasitic schistosome of mammals and its intermediate hosts Galba cubensis and Galba humilis along the banks of the Colorado River in California. We conducted multiple samplings of snails from various locations in the region with a previous history of canine schistosomiasis. Nucleotide sequencing of the multiple regions of the snails’ and parasites’ DNA revealed the coexistence of G. cubensis and G. humilis, both infected with H. americana. Phylogenetic analyses further validate the presence of H. americana in California, suggesting a wider distribution than previously reported. Our findings have implications for public health, veterinary medicine, and biodiversity conservation, contributing to developing effective control strategies to prevent the spread of this emerging infectious disease.