Sampling of nematodes

Proper control of soil nematodes, whether potato cyst nematodes or free-living nematodes, always starts with proper sampling and analysis. HLB has various possibilities for this, depending on the cultivation objective, the crop and personal requirements.

Good nematode control begins with identifying an infestation and determining the species and population size.

HLB supports this with various products. An overview is given here. Of course, customised research is always possible, tailored to your wishes and circumstances. We will be pleased to exchange thoughts with you!

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Nematode research

An intensive sampling method mainly used in seed potato and consumption potato cultivation.

Using a very intensively-taken sample, which usually involves taking over 700 samples with a GPS-equipped quad, incipient PCN problems can be clearly visualised per sample strip, including the type determination.

These samples are examined for the presence of cysts in the quarantine lab. All cysts found are checked for live larvae and eggs. Each sample is then examined for the presence of G. pallida, G. rostochiensis or a mixed infection of the two. The latter is done with a PCR test, i.e. based on DNA technology. A type analysis is always requested in advance.

The result: PCN infestations are identified with highly accurate type analysis in the field.

A sample of free-living nematodes is indispensable for a good choice of crop, variety and green manure in the crop plan. HLB conducts this research using the tried and tested incubation technique. This method provides an excellent image of the nematode species present and the numbers per species because the incubation technique also includes the larvae from eggs and organic material in the calculation. The microscope is then used to make an expert assessment of all the plant-parasitic nematodes present in the sample, such as Meldoidogyne spp., Pratylenchus spp. and Trichodorides.

In some instances, DNA techniques are also used. HLB has special PCR tests that can be used to establish an infection with certainty with Meloidogyne chitwoodi or Meloidogyne fallax or a mixed infection of both. This makes these analyses highly reliable so that the best advice can be provided.

HLB has the T7 quick test, especially for selecting bulb cultivation plots. This test makes it possible to do a first count of free-living nematodes after just seven days. That is a very short incubation period, but as a rule it already gives a fairly clear impression. For that reason, the research is mainly used for selecting rental plots. We recommend the free-living nematode research for a more accurate image, where a longer incubation period is operated as standard.

Discover other challenges for flower bulbs here!

HLB is certified to carry out official stem nematode/white-rot tests for onion fields. This research can also be carried out voluntarily, with only a result and no certificate. This research helps avoid disappointments in onion cultivation.

Discover more information about soil analysis white rot here!

Proper control of soil nematodes, whether PCN, beet cysts or free-living nematodes, always starts with proper sampling and analysis. HLB has several possibilities for this, depending on the cultivation objective, the crop and personal requirements.

Click here to learn more about challenges in beet growing!