Population dynamics and effect of Meloidogyne incognita on different plantings of tomato in the Central Jordan Valley

Abstract

The Jordan Valley (Ghor) is characterized by warm humid winters and hot dry summers, with average monthly temperatures of 15-20°C and 25-30 DC, respectively. Tomatoes are grown under irrigation during the September - June period. The root-knot nematode thrives under these conditions and has become a limiting factor in tomato culture. In a preliminary study conducted in the Central Jordan Valley, root-knot nematode larvae were isolated from the soil around tomato roots in relatively low numbers at planting time in September. During the following winter months, larval numbers fell sharply. However, as average temperatures began to rise, starting March through May, the number of larvae isolated increased steadily. (AbuGharbieh and Hammou, 1971). Application of nematicides resulted in better plant growth and a longer fruiting period (Abu-Gharbieh and Hammou, 1972). The purpose of the study reported here was to investigate relationships between prevailing temperatures, root-knot population densities and the effect of the nematode on different plantings of tomato in the Central Jordan Valley.