All You Need To Know About Lesion Nematodes

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If you're a farmer or gardener, then you might have heard of lesion nematodes. These microscopic worms can be a major problem for crops, causing stunted growth, root galling, and leaf and stem lesions. However, there are several treatment options available to manage the infestation, so don't worry too much just yet. In this post, we'll go through what lesion nematodes are, why they're problematic, and how to treat them.

Lesion nematodes, scientifically known as Pratylenchus spp., are tiny, parasitic roundworms that live in soil. They are commonly found in areas with sandy soils, where they can easily move around and infect plant roots. Lesion nematodes feed on plant roots, which can cause significant damage to crops.

What are lesion nematodes?

As mentioned earlier, lesion nematodes are microscopic worms that feed on plant roots. They belong to a group of nematodes that are called ectoparasites, meaning they feed from the exterior of plant roots or above ground parts. Over 100 species of lesion nematodes have been identified worldwide as either migratory or sedentary.

Why are they a problem?

One of the biggest problems when it comes to lesion nematodes is that they are difficult to detect since they are so small. Furthermore, they don't show any noticeable symptoms during the early stages of infection, so farmers often only find out about infestations after serious crop damage has occurred. Lesion nematodes can also transmit plant viruses which could increase production losses in crop.

Lesion Nematode Symptoms

Symptoms of a lesion nematode infestation depend on the type of nematode and the host plant affected. However, some common symptoms include:

Leaf and Stem Lesions

Leaf and stem lesions are circular or oval areas of dead tissue on the plant. These symptoms are particularly common on above ground parts of plants.

Stunted Growth

Infected plants often have a reduced growth rate with stunted shoots, yellowing and leaf drop. This can be especially detrimental when growing vegetables or fruits that require a high yield in limited space.

Root Galling

Root galls appear as unusual swellings, knots or bumps but could also make roots look thinner with fewer branches than healthy plants . They could harbour other opportunistic pathogens such as fungi and bacteria.

Types of Lesion Nematodes

Pratylenchus is a genus of parasitic nematodes whose species are important for causing crop losses around the world. Some of the most common types of lesion nematodes include:

Pratylenchus penetrans

P.penetrans is migratory plant-parasitic nematode commonly found in soils that affect numerous crops grown under temperate climates. Host plants to P. penetrans include grapevine, tomato, cucumber, pepper, etc.

Pratylenchus brachyurus

P.brachyurus live in tropical and subtropical areas, and it's caused significant economic losses to sugarcane production in Brazil. Infection also reduced the growth of other cash crops such as mango.

Pratylenchus neglectus

P.neglectus have become a major pest for numerous crops grown under irrigation schemes in arid West Texas. Infestations of this nematode lead to yield reduction and an increase in crop management expenses.

Treatment Options for Lesion Nematodes

Fortunately, there are several ways to manage lesion nematodes infestations:

Crop Rotation

Crop rotation involves changing the type of crops grown in a particular area over time. This can help to reduce nematode populations since different crops might not harbour the same pool of pests. It would be best advised to rotate crops with either no susceptible species, having low susceptibility or which could tolerate essential nematode population densities.

Nematicides

Nematicides contain chemicals that kill nematodes. These chemicals should only be applied using professional spray equipment by licensed operators, according to label instruction as overuse could Cause product resistance and environmental pollution. Furthermore, any residue could be harmful to both humans and livestock.

Resistant Varieties

Plant breeders continuously develop crop varieties that are resistant to various diseases and pests, and usually have much higher productivity than non-resistant varieties. Some nematode resistant crops include tomato, soybean, peanut, cotton etc.

Lesion nematodes can be challenging to detect, and once they infect a crop, they lead to severe damage. However, with proper management practices like crop rotation or using resistant cultivars, farmers could effectively manage the pest population.

If you think your crops might be affected by lesion nematodes, it's important to identify the symptoms and reach out to an expert for help in determining the best course of action. Don't let these microscopic worms cause any more damage!

FAQ

What plants are susceptible to lesion nematodes?

Lesion nematodes could attack almost all plants may be with differing degree of severity or symptoms manifested.

Can I use chemical pesticides to treat lesion nematode infestations?

Chemical nematicides would provide effective short-term control in managing an infestation however such treatments should always follow label instruction, applied strictly by licensed operators, and followed through with organic and biological alternatives to improve soil quality while reducing reliance on non-sustainable resouces.

How do I prevent lesion nematodes in my crops?

Crop rotation, using healthy seedlings, avoiding planting in infected soils and maintaining optimal plant nutritional levels are the standard prevention methods.

Are there any natural treatments for lesion nematodes?

Using compost in moderate amounts can help to enrich soil quality and reduce nematode populations, along with bio-fertilisers, beneficial nematodes, green manure, and other eco-friendly products.

How long does it take to get rid of lesion nematodes from my soil?

Once a nematode population is established in the soil, it is difficult to get rid of it entirely, but implementing the above methods regularly could bring down maximum populations within 2-3 years period.

Can I grow resistant varieties to avoid problems with lesion nematodes?

Yes, there are several crop varieties available that are resistant to specific strains of lesion nematodes. These traits often also have other beneficial features such as high yield and stress tolerance.

Will crop rotation help control lesion nematode populations?

Yes, crop rotation is an effective method of controlling lesion nematode populations if it is done strategically and proper management practices followed.

How can I test my soil for lesion nematode infestations?

Soil testing services by accredited laboratories can determine the presence and density of nematode infestations. Based on the results experts could suggest appropriate management methods.

Are there any cultural practices that can help prevent lesion nematodes?

Maintaining optimal soil conditions, using healthy seedlings, avoiding planting in infested fields, and proper timing of fertilisers application can create unfavourable conditions to reduce nematode proliferation.

Are there any biological controls available for lesion nematodes?

Yes, Biological control agents like beneficial microorganisms or predators such as nematophagous fungi and bacteriophages could be developed.

Don't let lesion nematodes win the battle! Keep your crops thriving by implementing the above methods to effectively manage infestations, maintain a healthy soil structure and support long term sustainable agriculture.