European Journal of Plant Pathology (2011) 129, 81-88

Polona Strajnar, Sasa Sirca, Matej Knapic and Gregor Urek (2011)
Effect of Slovenian climatic conditions on the development and survival of the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne ethiopica
European Journal of Plant Pathology 129 (1), 81-88
Abstract: Meloidogyne ethiopica is a tropical root-knot nematode species which has recently been found in Europe. We examined its ability to survive in open fields located in regions with sub-Mediterranean and continental European climates. The outdoor microplot experiment consisted of two locations and lasted three growing and two winter seasons. It was demonstrated that M. ethiopica was able to survive at both locations and also that it retained its infection ability although temperatures below zero were recorded. The correct species was confirmed after each winter season by isozyme electrophoresis. Furthermore, the influence of temperature on the reproduction cycle of M. ethiopica was investigated. Meloidogyne ethiopica required 67, 48 and 36 days to complete the reproduction cycle at mean daily temperatures of 18.3, 22.7 and 26.3°C, respectively. At 13.9°C, M. ethiopica was not able to reproduce. The data obtained from these experiments were used to develop a correlation between temperature and the time needed for M. ethiopica to complete a reproduction cycle using a mathematical equation. Furthermore, eight vegetable crops that are important for agricultural production in Slovenia were tested for their suitability as hosts for M. ethiopica.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Polona Strajnar, Sasa Sirca, Gregor Urek

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
general biology - morphology - evolution
environment - cropping system/rotation

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Meloidogyne ethiopica		Slovenia