TABLE CONTENTS

Incursion Management of Potato Cyst Nematode and Restoration of Pest
Area Freedom
Hafez, S.L. (1), P. Sundararaj (1) & S.J. Turner (2)
(1)University of Idaho, Parma Research and Extension Canter, 29603 U of I Ln, Parma, Idaho 83660, USA. (2)
Applied Plant Science & Biometrics Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, 18A Newforge Lane,
Belfast BT9 5PX, Northern Ireland, UK.
Since its original introduction(s) from South America into Europe in the mid-1800s, potato
cyst nematodes (PCN) have spread to most regions of the world. PCN is now reported in
over 65 countries of the world and considered endemic in many regions. For over 60 years
extensive programmes in many countries have attempted to eradicate or limit the spread of
PCN with varying degrees of success. In most instances PCN was identified after it had
become established in a region and only a containment programme was achievable whist still
allowing potato production. However, experience in Western Australia indicates that if PCN
is detected soon after introduction then eradication can be achieved by implementation of
extensive quarantine and control measures. With increasing global trade in potatoes PCN
continues to be identified in new regions of the world, and eradication strategies will be
dependant on species identification, infestation levels and resources available.
The pale potato cyst nematode Globodera pallida was confirmed in Idaho, USA in 2006 and
presents an opportunity for an intensive eradication programme utilizing the greater
knowledge and diagnostic techniques recently developed. This strategy involves application
of chemicals and planting green manure crop for a number of years, together with the regular
monitoring of PCN viability levels. This will prevent the introduction of PCN into a clean
land and further spread within infested regions. Treatment will continue until no viable PCN
is detected and is scheduled to continue for at least nine years. Long-term crop rotation
followed by non-detection of PCN in extensive surveys could form the basis for restoring
PCN freedom. Specifically, planting of oil radish in rotation with wheat after fumigation is
considered as an effective method for PCN eradication under field conditions. Alternative
management strategies will also be presented.
5 th International Congress of Nematology, 2008 73