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Root-lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus thornei and P. neglectus): a review of recent progress in managing a significant pest of grain crops in northern Australia

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Abstract

Two species of root-lesion nematode (predominantly Pratylenchus thornei but also P. neglectus) are widespread pathogens of wheat and other crops in Australia’s northern grain belt, a subtropical region with deep, fertile clay soils and a summer-dominant rainfall pattern. Losses in grain yield from P. thornei can be as high as 70% for intolerant wheat cultivars. This review focuses on research which has led to the development of effective integrated management programs for these nematodes. It highlights the importance of correct identification in managing Pratylenchus species, reviews the plant breeding work done in developing tolerant and resistant cultivars, outlines the methods used to screen for tolerance and resistance, and discusses how planned crop sequencing with tolerant and partially resistant wheat cultivars, together with crops such as sorghum, sunflower, millets and canaryseed, can be used to reduce nematode populations and limit crop damage. The declining levels of soil organic matter in cropped soils are also discussed with bl]Reference to their effect on soil health and biological suppression of root-lesion nematodes.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, Leslie Research Centre, PO Box 2282, 4350, Toowoomba, Qld, Australia

    J. P. Thompson & K. J. Owen

  2. Biological Crop Protection Pty Ltd, 3601 Moggill Road, 4070, Moggill, Qld, Australia

    G. R. Stirling

  3. Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, J. Bjelke-Petersen Research Station, PO Box 23, 4610, Kingaroy, Qld, Australia

    M. J. Bell

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  1. J. P. Thompson
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  2. K. J. Owen
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  3. G. R. Stirling
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  4. M. J. Bell
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Correspondence to J. P. Thompson.

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Thompson, J.P., Owen, K.J., Stirling, G.R. et al. Root-lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus thornei and P. neglectus): a review of recent progress in managing a significant pest of grain crops in northern Australia. Australasian Plant Pathology 37, 235–242 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1071/AP08021

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