Effect of Hirsutella rhossiliensis on Infection of Potato by Pratylenchus penetrans

Authors

  • P. Timper
  • B. B. Brodie

Abstract

We evaluated the ability of the nematode-pathogenic fungus Hirsutella rhossiliensis (Deuteromycotina: Hyphomycetes) to reduce root penetration and population increase of Pratylenchus penetrans on potato. Experiments were conducted at 24 C in a growth chamber. When nematodes were placed on the soil surface 8 cm from a 14-day-old potato cutting, the fungus decreased the number entering roots by 25%. To determine the effect of the fungus on population increase after the nematodes entered roots, we transplanted potato cuttings infected with P. penetrans into Hirsutella-infested and uninfested soil. After 60 days, the total number of nematodes (roots and soil) was 20 ± 4% lower in Hirsutella-infested than in uninfested soil. Key words: biological control, Hirsutella rhossiliensis, migratory endoparasite, nematode, nematophagous fungus, potato, Pratylenchus penetrans, root lesion nematode, Solanum tuberosum.

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Published

1994-09-15

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Section

Articles