Abstract: Third stage juvenile (J3) entomopathogenic nematodes are prepared for storage by being induced into a state of cryptobiosis. The induction of cryptobiosis is effected by mixing an aqueous cream of the J3 nematodes with anhydrous, small particles of non-fibrous cellulose. The cryptobiotic J3 nematodes are stored in a container, fitted with an attachment which maintains the water activity in the container at a required value. The attachment includes a rigid tube that connects the interior of the container with a chamber that is vented to ambient atmosphere by small apparatus. The chamber contains water-absorbent material saturated with water or with a saturated salt solution, and the tube contains an air-permeable plug. An alternative attachment comprises a plastic envelope as the chamber, one face of which is stuck to the wall of the container. Small aperatures in the face are aligned with apertures in the container wall.

Abstract: For some purposes, such as the storage of third stage infective juvenile entomopathogenic nematodes which are in a state of cryptobiosis, it is necessary to use an air-ventilated region having a substantially constant, pre-determined water activity. Such a region is provided within a container having at least one opening if an air-ventilated chamber, containing a water-absorbent material which is saturated with water (or with a saturated salt solution) is mounted on the container, with an operative connection between the inside of the chamber and the inside of the container.

Abstract: Third stage juvenile (J3) entomopathogenic nematodes are prepared for storage by being induced into a state of cryptobiosis. The induction of cryptobiosis is effected by mixing an aqueous cream of the J3 nematodes with anhydrous, small particles (average maximum dimension less than 300 &mgr;m) of non-fibrous cellulose. The proportions of the aqueous cream and non-fibrous cellulose particles are such that, after equilibration, the mixture has a water activity in the range 0.80 to 0.995. Preferably an anti-fungal agent is included in the aqueous cream. To store the cryptobiotic J3 nematodes, the mixture is preferably kept in a container, fitted with an attachment which maintains the water activity in the container at a required value. The attachment includes a rigid tube that connects the interior of the container with a chamber that is vented to ambient atmosphere by small apparatus.